Dubai School Admissions: Step-by-Step Guide to KHDA Registration and Transfer Process

Wednesday, 16 July 2025

Moving your child to a new school in Dubai or enrolling them for the first time involves more than just filling out forms—it requires completing a legal registration process through the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). Whether you’re arriving from overseas, another emirate, or switching schools within Dubai, here’s a complete guide to help you navigate school registration requirements, transfer certificates, and KHDA protocols.

Table of Contents

• What is KHDA and Why is Registration Important?
• Step-by-Step KHDA Registration Process
• What Should the Transfer Certificate Include?
• TC Guidelines by Origin:
• Tips for a Smooth Registration Process
• Frequently asked questions

What is KHDA and Why is Registration Important?

The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) is the government body responsible for the regulation of private education in Dubai. Every student enrolled in a private school must be registered in the KHDA system to attend classes legally and be eligible for future transfers or certification.

Step-by-Step KHDA Registration Process

Once your child is admitted to a school in Dubai, follow these steps to complete KHDA registration:

Step 1: Submit Essential Documents

You will need to email the following to the school registrar:

• Child’s Emirates ID (EID) copy
• One parent’s Emirates ID copy
• Transfer Certificate from the previous school
• Parent’s contact details (email and phone number)

Step 2: What If You Don’t Have Emirates IDs Yet?

If your Emirates IDs are under processing:

• The school can manually register your child using passport copies and the transfer certificate.
• Once Emirates IDs are issued, you must send soft copies to the school to update the KHDA system.

Note: Visa processing may take 4 weeks for the sponsor and another 4 weeks for dependents. Factor this into your timeline.

Step 3: Transfer Certificate Requirements

A Transfer Certificate (TC) is mandatory for KHDA registration and is the parent’s responsibility to obtain. Without it, your child cannot be legally registered at any Dubai school.

What Should the Transfer Certificate Include?

• Full name of the student
• Date and place of birth
• Nationality
• Last year/grade attended
• Date of leaving
• Whether the student passed and was promoted
• Current year/grade (if mid-year transfer)
• Curriculum followed
• 12 or 13-year school system
• Principal/Head’s name and signature
• School stamp and date

TC Guidelines by Origin:

• From another school in Dubai: Submit a KHDA Leaving Certificate.
• From another Emirate or overseas: Submit an official Transfer Certificate.
• Students entering Year 3 and above must present a TC before joining.

Tips for a Smooth Registration Process

• Begin your visa and EID application early to avoid delays.
• Keep soft copies of all documents ready for easy submission.
• Double-check the format and authenticity of the Transfer Certificate.

Completing your child’s school registration in Dubai may seem like a long checklist, but following KHDA’s clear guidelines ensures a smooth start to their educational journey. Make sure all documents are accurate, timely, and verified to avoid any delays in enrollment.