UAE students have given a standout performance in this year’s GCSE exams, British courses schools have reported some of their strongest results. From record entries to extraordinary grade achievements, 2025 marked an important educational milestone for both students and institutions, which confirms the UAE position as a global center for high quality British education.
GCSE result observation in UAE schools
This year, thousands of UAE students sat for their GCSE, achieving their results on Wednesday and Thursday. Usually the examination taken by students of 16 years of age after completing the year 11 under the British course represents a major educational milestone that shapes future education and career paths. UAE’s largest private school operator, gemstone education announced its largest GCSE Coort:
- More than 4,000 students in 23 schools in the United Arab Emirates and Qatar appear in a total of 28,227 examinations – the highest in the history of the group.
- 26% of entries were awarded the top grade of 9-8 or a* (equal to A*), a total of 7,347 entries.
- 45% of students scored 9-7 (A)-A),
- 65% achieved 9-6 (A)-B),
- 87% received 9-4 (A)-C),
Each of these categories saw a improvement of 4 to 5 percent marks compared to the results of 2024. GEMS students continued their long trend to perform better than the UK national average. Since 2013, GEMS schools have crossed the national benchmark by margin of dual-digit on both 9-7 (A*-A) and 9-4 (A*-C) grade level for 12 consecutive years. Notable gems include school performance:Zumera College,
- 44% of all entries were classified on 9-8 (A*)-the highest within.
- 99% of its 180-firm Kohort scored *9-4 (A)-C)**.
Gemstone wellington international school,
- Out of about 2,000 entries, 42% were awarded 9-8 (A*).
- 96% achieved *9-4 (A)-C)**.
Personal school highlights and student achievements
Many other schools of UAE also reported extraordinary performances: One of the oldest institutions in UAE, Jebel Ali School saw:
- 40% of all grades honored at 8 and 9 (A and A*)
- 107 students appear for 927 examinations, 80 students in 2024 and 681 examinations.
- The increase indicates increasing enrollment amidst an increase in population.
Brighton College Dubai announced its best GCSE results till date:
- All grade were 25% 9
- 45% falls in 8-9 range
Understanding British courses and GCSE structure
Understanding British courses and GCSE structure
The British curriculum, formally known as a national course for England, is a world -level respected education system launched in the late 1980s. Structured in six major stages, up to the level of the university from early years, it is widely applied to private schools of UAE, followed by about one-third of the 600 private schools in the country.Major stages in British course:
- EYFS (Early Year Foundation Phase)
- KS1 (Key Phase 1)
- KS2 (key phase 2)
- KS3 (Key Phase 3)
- KS4 (Key Phase 4) – where students take their GCSE
- KS5 (Key Phase 5) – Leading A -Level, BTEC, or equivalent qualification
GCSE is part of KS4, usually taken at the age of 16. Core themes include:
- English
- Mathematics
- Science
Depending on school and location, additional subjects introduced can be included:
- Arabic and non-indestion
- Islamic Studies
- UAE Social Studies
- Moral education
- History
- Geography
- design and Technology
- art and Design
- music
- PE
- Computing
- Ancient and modern foreign languages
Grading System:
- The GCSE 9 (highest) to 1 (lowest) uses a numeric grading system, replacing the old letter system (A*-g).
- A grade is considered 4 or above a passing score, with grade 9 extraordinary.
- Traditional benchmarks for educational success are often defined by obtaining at least grade 4–9 (CA*).
Why GCSE results
GCSE serves as a foundation for a student’s educational and career trip. Their importance lies:
- University Admission: A specific number of GCSE with minimal grade is required for frequent admission to universities at the UK and international levels.
- Career Route: Success in some GCSE subjects may guide students towards businesses in STEM, law, business and more.
- Skill Development: GCSE courses help students build important thinking, independent study habits, time management and other essential life skills.
In the UAE, British courses in schools, especially in the Emirates like Dubai, Sharjah and Ajman, ensure that students are academically equipped for both local and global opportunities.
