If your child is starting Year 6 this September, their final year of primary school is about to begin – and so is one of the biggest school decisions you may have made since they left Nursery.
For families whose children attend a standalone primary school, a move is inevitable. Others may already have a secondary place within an all-through school but are wondering whether Year 7 is the right time for a change.
And in Dubai, where there are more than 230 private schools, multiple curricula, very different fee points and some schools where Year 7 places are extremely competitive, it pays to start early.
In fact, for 2027-28 entry, some important admissions decisions are already being made before Year 6 has even begun.
Dubai College will open applications for August 2027 entry on September 8, 2026, while JESS has already closed its Personal Debenture application process for Year 7 2027-28. Meanwhile, DESS College has confirmed that it will not offer an external Year 7 application process at all for 2027-28, with places expected to be filled by children moving up from its two primary campuses and students already on its Year 6 waiting list.
So, if secondary school is on your radar, now is the time to start looking.
WhichSchoolAdvisor.com explains how to apply for a Year 7 place in Dubai for the 2027-28 academic year, including application deadlines, assessments, school visits, curriculum choices, fees, newer schools, online options and scholarships.
When should I apply for a Dubai secondary school for 2027-28?
The short answer is: now. There is no single Dubai-wide application date for private schools. Every school operates its own admissions process and, while many accept applications throughout the year if spaces are available, some of the most sought-after schools have very specific deadlines.
For children starting Year 6 in September 2026 and moving into Year 7 in August or September 2027, the first term of Year 6 is particularly important.
It is worth drawing up a shortlist early and checking each school's admissions page individually. Don't assume that because your child does not start secondary school for another year you have plenty of time.
