Schools in the UAE: Choosing a Curriculum? UK, IB, US and CBSE Options Explained – News

Are you planning to enroll your child in school and are you considering different curricula?

The UAE has schools with curricula from different countries, so with the sheer amount of choices it can be a nerve-wracking decision for parents to make. If you are asking yourself the question, ‘How do I choose the right curriculum for my child in the UAE?’, the comparison below may help you.

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Here is a comparison of the British Curriculum, International Baccalaureate (IB), US Curriculum and Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) based on key criteria:

Training structure

British curriculum: The education structure here is structured as Key Stages (KS1 to KS4) for children aged 5 to 16. Students first pass the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) exams, after which they progress to the A-Levels for advanced studies.

International Baccalaureate: For children aged 3 to 19, this program is divided into three parts. Ultimately, a diploma program provides students with an internationally recognized IB diploma.

American curriculum: This is also divided into three sections: Elementary (K-5), Middle (6-8), and High School (9-12). Students receive a diploma once they complete high school.

CBSE: These schools divide their grades into stages, from primary to secondary education (grades 1-12). The focus is on and the teaching ends at the grade 10 and 12 examinations.

Subject curriculum

British curriculum: The British system has a broad curriculum up to GCSEs, but once a student reaches A-levels they will have to choose subjects in which they wish to specialize. Students usually choose three or four subjects.

International Baccalaureate: In the IB program, students receive a holistic learning experience in which their transdisciplinary education focuses around a central theme. The IB DP requires students to study six subjects, each chosen from one of six subject groups. This approach promotes a balanced and well-rounded education.

American curriculum: This curriculum allows students to customize their learning experience based on local standards. It focuses on a broad education with compulsory subjects and electives.

CBSE: This curriculum offers a centralized education system, which can be helpful if the student goes to India for higher education. The courses combine theoretical and practical knowledge that prepares students to take Indian standardized tests.

Assessments and exams

British curriculum: The emphasis is usually on GCSEs and A-levels, and external examinations. In some cases, the courses also contribute to the final grade.

International Baccalaureate: In this curriculum, students receive formative and summative assessments, in addition to internal projects and external examinations. For a degree, students must submit a Theory of Knowledge, complete CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) and submit an extended essay.