Pearson Edexcel has cancelled in-person exams across the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Lebanon for the May/June 2026 series, affecting all international GCSE, A-level, and iPLS qualifications. This decision comes amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region, which have created uncertainty for students and schools.
OxfordAQA has also announced the cancellation of its IGCSE and International A Level exams in the UAE for Summer 2026. A spokesperson from Pearson stated, “Our exam series runs for the longest period, which means we are operating at scale to support learners and schools in this exceptionally difficult situation.”
In addition, Cambridge International has cancelled its exams in the UAE, opting for an assessment based on a portfolio of evidence instead. Schools will not conduct traditional exams; rather, they are required to submit students’ portfolios for marking and grading. This portfolio route will apply to various qualifications, including Cambridge IGCSE and Cambridge International AS & A Level.
OxfordAQA confirmed that the decision to cancel exams was made after consulting closely with the Ministry of Education and other international exam boards. Schools in the UAE are preparing for alternatives if disruptions continue, with Giles Pruett, Executive Principal of Arcadia British School, stating, “If exams in the UAE are disrupted, we would move to a robust evidence-based evaluation model.”
The International Baccalaureate final exams have also been cancelled in the UAE for May and June 2026, adding to the growing list of affected qualifications. This includes IGCSE English as a Second Language and other subjects assessed by OxfordAQA.
As schools adapt to these changes, Natalia Svetenok, Principal of Woodlem British School, emphasized, “Our priority is calm, clarity, and continuity.” However, details remain unconfirmed regarding how students will be assessed in place of written exams, leaving many in the education community seeking further information.
