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The programme supports high-potential students across multiple domains. More than 500 shortlisted candidates, selected from more than 2,200 applications, underwent in-person assessments at the event
GEMS Education held an Open Day across 43 of its schools in the UAE and Qatar following the launch of the GEMS Genius Scholarship in 2025. The schools hosted over 500 shortlisted students and their families for the next stage of the scholarship process. Students were selected from more than 2,200 applications across the UAE and Qatar.
The GEMS Genius Scholarship is a merit-based programme designed to identify and support high-potential students across different talents and abilities. The programme focuses on developing each child’s unique abilities and supporting their development. Admissions were open to high-performing students in Year 10 and Year 12 from both GEMS and non-GEMS schools across the region. Scholarships are offered as tuition reductions for two academic years. Values vary by school and individual student profile, with up to 100 per cent tuition assistance available. Recipients may apply for the scholarship at the end of the two-year term.
Dino Varkey, Group Chief Executive Officer of GEMS Education, said:
“This initiative closely aligns with the UAE’s national priorities around talent development, educational excellence and future-ready skills. By identifying and nurturing students with strong potential across academic, creative, leadership and other domains, the initiative contributes to the development of a confident, skilled and socially responsible generation of learners.”
The Open Day took place across participating campuses at the same time. Shortlisted students completed interviews and CAT4 assessments (Cognitive Abilities Test, Fourth Edition). 54 per cent of shortlisted candidates were students attending schools outside the GEMS network, showing the scholarship’s regional reach. CAT4 is a globally recognised assessment that measures cognitive aptitude rather than curriculum-specific knowledge. This approach ensures fair evaluation across different educational pathways, including British, International Baccalaureate (IB), Indian and American.
Lisa Crausby OBE, GEMS Group Chief Education Officer, said:
“The Open Day brought to life what the GEMS Genius Scholarship stands for – opportunity, aspiration and belief in the potential of every child. Seeing students and families from across the UAE engage so positively with our schools reinforces the depth of talent in the country and the trust placed in GEMS as an education partner. The initiative embodies our belief in empowering exceptional students to reach their full potential regardless of their background or circumstances.”
The 2026 edition of the GEMS Genius Scholarship opened for applications in November 2025 and introduced a new feature. For the first time, candidates could indicate a first-choice and alternative-choice school, allowing strong applicants to be considered across a wider range of GEMS schools. This enhancement was designed to increase opportunities for student applicants.
The Open Day also served as a celebration of students, families and GEMS Education values. Families visited campuses for guided tours, student showcases and Family First activities, offering insight into school culture, learning environments and the GEMS community.
Crausby added:
“Every year, we look forward to the open day, a key milestone in our scholarship journey and a true celebration of everything GEMS stands for. We were delighted by the strong interest in the initiative and were very impressed by the interviews that showed how much potential awaits discovery in our schools. Congratulations to every student: being shortlisted is an achievement in itself.”
The assessment results, including a final list of scholarship recipients, will be announced later in February 2026 following completion of a centralised review process.