Exam boards Cambridge International and Pearson Edexcel have cancelled some 2026 exam sittings in the United Arab Emirates and issued new grading arrangements for affected candidates, according to regional reports. Schools and private candidates in the UAE were notified that written assessments for certain series will not proceed as scheduled; exam boards will replace examinations with alternative awarding methods.
For students in Jordan and the Middle East this disruption matters for two reasons: timing of official results and university admissions. Many regional universities (including applicants to UK, US and local Jordanian institutions) rely on published exam grades to meet conditional offers, apply for scholarships, or complete Ministry of Higher Education equivalency procedures. Delays or changes to grading methodology can affect meeting admission deadlines or documentation required for registration and visa processing.
What students should do now: first, check official communications from your school or centre and from Cambridge/Pearson websites for precise details and result-day schedules. Gather and secure internal assessment records: coursework, mock exams, teacher grades, attendance and any portfolio evidence. These materials are often used in centre-assessed outcomes or appeals. Second, contact any universities where you hold offers — ask admissions teams how they will treat alternative grades and whether they will accept predicted or centre-assessed grades temporarily. Third, if you need Jordanian equivalency, contact the Ministry of Higher Education’s Equivalency Department early to confirm required documents and any temporary procedures they may allow.
Practical deadlines and next steps: keep an eye on official result-day announcements from Cambridge International (Tes and Careers360 maintain updated result calendars) and Pearson. When results are released, timelines for appeals, reviews and remarking are short — often days to weeks — so prepare statements and evidence in advance and discuss appeal options with your school. If you miss the current exam window, ask your centre about registration for the next public series or options as a private candidate.
Shatnawi for College Admissions and Academic Consultations can help students in Jordan navigate this change: we review documentation for equivalency, advise on UCAS/UK and local admission contingencies, and prepare appeal dossiers with schools. For urgent questions about deadlines, document preparation, or interpreting alternative grades, contact Shatnawi to plan your next steps.
For guidance or to book a consultation, message WhatsApp +962791888699 or visit shatnawiedu.com.