UAE schools outline documents for student financial assessment

Administrations of government schools across the UAE have outlined the list of documents required from resident students applying for the assessment of their economic and social status. The initiative, which aims to ensure fairness and transparency in providing support, categorises applicants into several groups — including limited-income families, struggling households, children of divorced or abandoned women, orphans, children of prisoners, labour-related cases, and those with expired residency permits.

According to school administrations, this process is designed to guarantee that all information provided is verified through official and credible sources. The purpose is to enable authorities to allocate educational and financial support based on clear and just standards, ensuring that assistance reaches the families who are genuinely in need.

Among the essential documents required are copies of valid Emirates IDs and residency permits for all family members, including the father, mother, and any unmarried or unemployed children. Applicants must also provide employment contracts and salary certificates for each working parent, dated September 2025 or later, to reflect the most recent income status. In addition, bank statements covering the last six months are required for both parents if they are employed.

For families where salaries are paid in cash or through exchange services, official proof of monthly income must be provided. In the case of business owners or investors, they are required to submit a written declaration specifying their monthly income, along with a copy of their valid commercial licence and a recent bank statement.

Officials also clarified that, in situations involving labour disputes or other exceptional circumstances that prevent the submission of income proof, a document issued by the judiciary or relevant labour authorities must be attached to the application. Regarding housing, applicants must submit a notarised and valid tenancy contract in the name of a parent or guardian, clearly indicating the monthly rent. A statement of any existing monthly bank obligations should also be included, if applicable.

The school administrations further emphasised the importance of attaching additional supporting documents when relevant — such as death certificates, dependency declarations, or divorce and custody rulings. In cases where a parent is permanently residing outside the country or imprisoned, an official statement from the competent authorities must also be provided.

To ensure smooth processing, all required documents must be submitted accurately, in a timely manner, and combined into a single PDF file. Authorities stressed that photos, WhatsApp messages, and compressed files will not be accepted, as adhering to these instructions will help expedite the review and approval process.