UAE A-level high achievers reveal how they secured top grades despite exam cancellations
Dubai: UAE students who achieved top A-level grades have shared how they adapted to an unprecedented assessment process after formal examinations were cancelled earlier this year. In April, Cambridge, Pearson Edexcel and OxfordAQA cancelled all IGCSE and A-level examinations in the UAE for the May/June 2026 series, citing safety concerns amid the US-Israel-Iran conflict. Students were instead…
In April 2026, three UAE schools - Cambridge, Pearson Edexcel and OxfordAQA - cancelled all IGCSE and A-level examinations for the May/June 2026 series due to safety concerns during the US-Israel-Iran conflict. Students instead took a Portfolio of Evidence, which incorporated coursework, internal assessments and year-long work. Despite the disruption, many schools reported strong results with 100% pass rates and large proportions of A* to B grades.
To adapt, students modified their revision strategies, maintained routines and relied on teacher and family support. Iasonas Romanos from Repton Al Barsha secured A* in Physics, Business and A in Mathematics while also achieving A in AS Level Greek and EPQ. Haniya Mirza, also from Repton Al Barsha, received A* in Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics.
Andreas Palmos from Horizon International School achieved A* in all five subjects, acknowledging the need to push harder due to extended online learning and earlier exam dates. Narain Eshaan Ayathan from Brighton College Abu Dhabi achieved four A* grades in Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry, crediting his school and family for unwavering support during the challenging period.
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