Qatar Begins 2026-27 School Admissions from April 12

Qatar has officially set the timeline for government school admissions and transfers for the 2026–2027 academic year, giving parents a clear roadmap months ahead of the new session. The move aims to avoid last-minute rush and ensure students are placed well before schools reopen.

Registration will begin on 12 April 2026 and continue until 13 August through the Maaref Electronic Portal. The process will follow a phased system, starting with priority groups such as Qatari nationals, children of Qatari women, and GCC citizens. From 24 May, the system will open for applicants of all nationalities, widening access across the country.

For families who may miss the main window, authorities have also kept a second opportunity open from 25 August to 1 October 2026, offering added flexibility.

Alongside new registrations, internal student transfers have already been initiated. These include automatic moves for students progressing from kindergarten to primary, primary to preparatory, and preparatory to secondary levels. Parents are expected to receive placement updates between 29 and 31 March 2026.

To handle growing student numbers, seven new government schools will open this year. With this expansion, the total number of government schools will reach 236, supported by 67 kindergartens. The increase reflects rising demand for public education and aims to improve access across different residential areas.

The registration process requires parents to submit key documents, including proof of residence within the school’s designated zone. This can be an authenticated rental contract or an electricity bill in the guardian’s name. Other mandatory documents include the student’s ID card, birth certificate, health file, and for expatriates, a valid work certificate.

Age eligibility remains strictly defined. Children born by the end of 2022 can apply for kindergarten, those born by the end of 2021 for pre-school, and children born by 31 December 2020 are eligible for Grade 1. Some flexibility will be given to Qatari students born in January and February for early grades.

Parents are encouraged to verify their assigned school zones in advance using the “Which is My School?” online service to avoid confusion during the application process.

With early planning, expanded capacity, and a structured timeline, the upcoming academic year is set to begin with fewer disruptions and a smoother experience for both students and families.