Age cut-off dates
Every system counts a child's age on a fixed date. A child born just after that date joins a year later than a child born just before it.
| System | Age counted on | Grade 1 |
|---|---|---|
| Saudi Arabia | Start of the school year (late August) | 6 years; KG from 3 |
| UAE | 31 December of the year the school year starts | 6 years; Pre-KG 3, KG1 4, KG2 5 |
| Egypt | 1 October | 6 years; KG from 4 |
| India (CBSE and most states) | 31 March | 6 years (NEP 2020) |
| Pakistan (Islamabad) | 31 March | 5 years |
| Philippines | 31 October | 6 years; kindergarten at 5 |
Private and community schools in the Gulf usually follow the curriculum of their home country, so an Indian school in Dubai uses the Indian age rule. Schools can set their own rules too, so confirm with the school before you apply.
Frequently asked questions
My child is a few weeks too young. Is there an exception?
In Saudi Arabia a child up to 90 days younger can join grade 1 after completing kindergarten. Other systems rarely allow exceptions for state schools.
Which rule applies to an international school?
The school's curriculum decides. British schools use 31 August, American schools often 1 September or 31 December. Ask the school.
Last reviewed: October 2026.
This page was translated from Arabic. If something is unclear or wrong, please tell us.