UK Exam Boards Cancel 2026 Exams in UAE and Gulf Amid Regional Conflict
In response to the ongoing regional conflict in the Middle East, including the effects of the US-Israel-Iran war, numerous educational boards across the Gulf region have cancelled examinations for students. These boards are now adopting alternative evaluation methods to assess student results. Following this trend, UK-based examination boards have also announced the cancellation of exams for students in the United Arab Emirates and other affected countries.
Pearson Edexcel Cancels Exams for International Qualifications
On Thursday, the UK exam board Pearson Edexcel made a significant announcement regarding the cancellation of all international GCSE, International A Level, and iPLS qualifications for the May/June 2026 series. This decision applies specifically to countries including the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Lebanon. Emma Whale, Vice President of International Schools at Pearson Edexcel, shared that the decision was reached after thorough consultation with local authorities and other international awarding bodies, taking into account the current volatile situation in the region.
The primary motivation behind this move is to prioritize the safety and well-being of students and staff. By cancelling traditional exams, the board aims to mitigate risks associated with travel and large gatherings during times of geopolitical instability.
How Results Will Be Calculated Without Exams
In lieu of formal examinations, schools will collaborate with Pearson Edexcel to submit comprehensive portfolios of students' work. These portfolios will be meticulously reviewed and used as the basis for marking and grading. This innovative approach ensures that students receive official certification for their academic efforts throughout the year, without the need to sit for high-stakes exams. It also supports their continuous academic progress, ensuring they do not lose out on the hard work and dedication they have demonstrated over the course of their studies.
Cambridge International Education Follows Suit with Exam Cancellations
Similarly, Cambridge International Education has announced that schools in the UAE will not conduct traditional exams for the June 2026 series. This decision was made in close coordination with the UAE Ministry of Education, reflecting a unified response to the regional challenges. The changes impact students enrolled in a wide range of Cambridge programmes, including Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge O Level, Cambridge International AS & A Level, and the Cambridge IPQ.
Cambridge Assessment International Education is one of the most widely offered international education systems in the UAE, with over 120 schools across the country providing these programmes. The cancellation underscores the broad reach and significance of this decision within the educational landscape.
Portfolio-Based Grading Route for Cambridge Students
For Cambridge students, a portfolio-based grading route will be implemented to assess their performance. Schools will be required to compile detailed coursework and internal assessments for each student, which will then be submitted for evaluation. Each portfolio must include at least three substantial pieces of evidence per subject, ensuring a robust and fair assessment process. Students will receive official Cambridge certification based on these portfolios, which is recognized by universities worldwide, thereby safeguarding their academic futures and international mobility.
Previous Cancellations and Broader Context
This wave of exam cancellations is not an isolated incident. Previously, exams for the International Baccalaureate (IB) and Indian boards such as the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) had also been cancelled in the emirate. These decisions were driven by consistent geopolitical tensions in the region, which have created an environment of uncertainty and anxiety for numerous parents and students concerned about their academic trajectories.
The announcement of these cancellations has been met with a sense of relief among the educational community, as it provides a clear and structured alternative to traditional exams, reducing stress and ensuring continuity in learning. As conflicts continue to influence global affairs, the adaptation of assessment methods highlights the resilience and flexibility of international education systems in prioritizing student welfare and academic integrity.
