Examinations for the final term to commence on June 10th: UAE Ministry unveils innovative technical specifications
Ministry of Education Upgrades Software for Electronic Examinations
Abu Dhabi - The Ministry of Education in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has completed a comprehensive update of the operating systems on devices used for electronic examinations ahead of the third academic term's final examinations, scheduled to start on June 10, 2025.
In preparation for the exam period, schools have been informed about the necessity of installing the latest version of the secure browser software, SwiftAssess (version 1.9.14), in conjunction with the ESE Secure application. These tools are crucial for students to access electronic exams without any hindrances.
The Ministry has prepared download links for the Lock Download Browser application, compatible with Android tablets, iPads, and Mac devices running iOS, to facilitate the installation process for personal devices [1]. For Ministry-issued devices, students have been instructed to turn them on within school premises and connect them to the school network, allowing for automatic updates without manual intervention.
To ensure a smooth update process, students using personal devices are advised to seek assistance from the CCDI technical support team to update their operating systems and confirm correct software installation [1].
The secure browser software, specifically designed for electronic examinations, prevents students from navigating away from the exam screen or accessing other websites during the assessment. Furthermore, it blocks the use of any external applications that could be exploited inappropriately. The system also closely monitors user activity during the exam, immediately terminating the examination and barring the student from continuing if any attempt to capture the screen, exit the exam window, or use unauthorized methods is detected [1].
As part of the Ministry's broader initiative to ensure a secure and stable digital testing environment, schools across the UAE have stepped up their preparations for the end-of-year examinations. Administrations have issued strong advisories to parents about attendance, particularly in the lead-up to final exams [2]. In addition, comprehensive support programs and intensive review sessions have been announced, with virtual support lessons available through June 17 [2].
Several schools have already launched intensive academic support sessions in hybrid formats, offering both virtual and in-person options, to prepare students for the final assessments [2]. Virtual lessons will be available for both lower and upper secondary levels, running for two consecutive weeks leading up to June 3 and resuming during the final exam period, from June 9 to June 17 [2].
The Ministry of Education has also approved the examination timetable for the end-of-term (second session) assessments for Grade 12 students enrolled in the Adult Education Integrated Programme, scheduled from June 23 to July 3 [3]. Students will sit for exams in seven subjects over nearly two weeks, with each exam lasting two hours from 4:00 to 6:00 PM [3].
In a related development, school administrations have encouraged students and their families to postpone Eid Al-Adha celebrations until after the final exams, emphasizing the importance of academic focus and preparedness during this critical stage of the school year [4].
Sources
[1] UAE Ministry of Education provides download links for Lock Download Browser application.
[2] Schools across UAE increase readiness for end-of-year examinations.
[3] UAE Ministry of Education approves examination timetable for Grade 12 students enrolled in Adult Education Integrated Programme.
[4] UAE schools advise postponing Eid Al-Adha celebrations until after final exams.
- The ministry's update of the software for electronic examinations aligns with their broader initiative to enhance the digital testing environment, promoting a secure and stable environment for education-and-self-development.
- In light of the ministry's renewed focus on technology in education, it's essential for students to stay informed about news related to education and its integration with technology, especially as examinations approach.
