**What happened**
The UAE government and International Baccalaureate (IB) authorities have cancelled the May 2026 IB final examinations for students in the country and moved to an alternative grading model. Reports from regional and international outlets indicate the decision was taken amid continuing regional conflict that has disrupted secure exam delivery. IB organizations have said they will provide support to affected candidates while schools implement alternative assessment routes.
**Immediate impact for students in Jordan and the Middle East**
Although the cancellation was announced for the UAE, the disruption has repercussions across the region. Many Jordanian and regional students apply to universities using IB results, and admissions offices in the UK, US, Europe and regional universities will now be dealing with predicted or teacher-assessed grades rather than exam marks for some candidates. Students should assume universities will request additional documentation, such as predicted grades from school coordinators, evidence of internal assessment (IA/EE/CAS records), or school reports.
**Practical steps students should take now**
1) Contact your school’s IB coordinator immediately to confirm whether your centre is affected, the timeline for submitting predicted grades, and how internal assessment work has been recorded. 2) Obtain digital copies of your Extended Essay, internal assessment files, teacher comments and any mock exam results. These files are often requested by universities during exceptional grading years. 3) Reach out to universities and scholarship bodies where you have applications to explain the situation and ask whether they will accept predicted grades or need additional verification — do this as soon as possible, ideally within the next 7–14 days. 4) If you were planning to sit standardized tests (SAT, ACT, or language exams) as backup options, confirm upcoming dates and registration deadlines now.
**Context and what to expect next**
The IB has previously issued awarded grades or adapted protocols in crisis situations and has published guidance for centres in disrupted areas. Universities often adapt by relying on predicted grades, internal assessment evidence and prior academic records, but policies vary by institution and country. Students should monitor official IB communications, school notices and university admission portals for precise guidance on submission formats and deadlines.
**How Shatnawi for College Admissions and Academic Consultations can help**
Shatnawi Education (شطناوي للخدمات الجامعية والاستشارات الأكاديمية) can assist students in Jordan and the region by coordinating with school IB coordinators, preparing documentation for university admissions offices, advising on scholarship and deferral options, and helping register for alternate tests where needed. For personalised guidance, contact Shatnawi to review your application timeline and prepare supporting evidence.
For immediate help, students and parents can reach Shatnawi on WhatsApp at +962791888699 or visit shatnawiedu.com for consultations and step-by-step support.