- Over 500 students assessed across 43 schools in the UAE and Qatar
- Genius Scholarship backs high-potential students with merit-based support
- Focus on skills, leadership, and future-ready learning pathways
GEMS Education recently hosted a large-scale Open Day across 43 of its schools in the UAE and Qatar as part of the selection process for the GEMS Genius Scholarship. The event welcomed more than 500 shortlisted students and their families, chosen from over 2,200 applications received across the region.
Launched in 2025, the GEMS Genius Scholarship is a merit-based initiative aimed at identifying and nurturing students with strong academic ability, creativity, leadership potential, and other talents. The program is open to high-performing Year 10 and Year 12 students from both GEMS and non-GEMS schools. Scholarships are awarded as tuition fee reductions for two years, with support ranging up to 100 percent depending on the student profile and school.
During the Open Day, shortlisted candidates took part in interviews and CAT4 (Cognitive Abilities Test) assessments, which measure reasoning and aptitude rather than syllabus-based knowledge. This ensures fair evaluation across different curricula, including British, IB, Indian, and American systems. Notably, 54 percent of shortlisted students came from outside the GEMS network, highlighting the program’s wide regional reach.
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GEMS leaders emphasized that the scholarship aligns closely with regional priorities around education excellence, skills development, and preparing students for future careers. Beyond assessments, families toured campuses, explored learning facilities, and engaged in student-led showcases that reflected GEMS’ focus on holistic education.
For the 2026 edition, GEMS introduced a new feature allowing applicants to choose a preferred and alternate school, expanding access and opportunity. The Open Day reinforced the role of schools in building talent, confidence, and skills needed for higher education and future employment.