A Thoughtful Approach to Admissions
Doha College is a selective-entry school that places pupil well-being and the right educational setting for each child at the heart of its admissions process, alongside a strong commitment to academic excellence.
Our entrance assessments are carefully designed to ensure prospective pupils meet our entry criteria while also enabling us to understand their strengths, potential, and whether our curriculum and learning environment are the right fit for their individual needs.
Admissions decisions are determined through a holistic review process. This includes parent and pupil interviews, school references, academic reports, data from the entrance assessment and any other relevant supporting information to ensure each applicant is considered fully and fairly.
Entrance Assessments at Doha College
Our entrance assessments are thoughtfully designed to ensure that prospective pupils meet the academic criteria and that our curriculum and learning environment align with each child’s needs.
| Foundation Stage 1 (FS1) and Foundation Stage 2 (FS2) |
| Children are invited to a friendly and informal play-based observation conducted by our Early Years team. Working with small groups, our staff guide children through simple activities and practical tasks. This helps us determine whether your child is ready to thrive in our EYFS setting. |
| Year 1 and Year 2 |
| Children sit a short, fun-filled 1:1 assessment with a teacher, who offers insight into phonics knowledge, numeracy, communication, and language development. These assessments typically last 30 minutes, and assessment charges of QR 500 apply from Year 2 onwards. |
| Year 3 to Year 6 |
Applicants are invited to complete a standardised Cognitive Ability Test. A short writing sample will also be requested to help us gain a fuller understanding of each pupil’s abilities. The full assessment takes approximately 90 minutes, and a QR 500 assessment charge applies per applicant.
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| Year 7 to Year 12 |
Applicants are invited to complete a standardised Cognitive Ability Test, which helps determine the pupil's ability to access the curriculum. Year 12 applicants will also be invited to a pupil interview with the Head of 6th Form to discuss their future aspirations and gain a better understanding of the 6th programme at Doha College.
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| Year 12 and Year 13 (6th Form) |
For entry into Years 12 and 13, applicants must meet our minimum entry requirements (five GCSEs at grade 5/C and above, including a minimum of grade 6/B in the subjects selected), complete a satisfactory interview, and submit references. Applicants will be required to sit a Cognitive Ability Test and attend an interview with the Head of Sixth Form to discuss their academic goals, subject choices, and how we can best support their aspirations. Mock examination results and predicted grades must also be submitted as part of the application process. Shortlisted applicants are invited for an interview with the Head of 6th Form to discuss their goals, subject choices, and how we can support their aspirations. |
Online and Remote Assessments
We understand that relocating families or those applying from overseas may need flexibility in the admissions process. We offer online and remote assessment options to make the process as smooth as possible.
For families who would like to access our online assessment facilities, our Admissions team will guide you through every step. Once the required documentation and payment have been received, we will arrange a mutually convenient date for your child’s assessment. Instructions for administering the test will then be sent directly to your child’s current school.
We are committed to ensuring every applicant has the opportunity to demonstrate their potential, no matter where they are in the world.
For Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and Key Stage 1 (Years 1 and 2), assessments will be conducted remotely via video call by our friendly Doha College team, ensuring your child feels comfortable and supported throughout the process.
Assessment Outcome and Waiting List
We understand how important it is for families to receive timely and clear communication during the admissions process. At Doha College, we aim to make this journey as transparent and supportive as possible.
Assessment outcomes are typically shared within 14 working days of the entrance test, communicated directly by our Admissions Office via email. The final outcome is based on multiple elements: your child’s performance in the entrance assessment, a review of previous school reports, and feedback regarding behaviour and character. This comprehensive evaluation helps us ensure the best fit between each pupil and our school community.
If a child meets the entry criteria but there are no places currently available in the required year group, they will be placed on a waiting list. Our waiting list is carefully structured into bands based on the strength of the application and assessment outcome, and is updated regularly as new assessments take place. Families will be contacted as soon as places become available.
We appreciate your patience and look forward to supporting you every step of the way.
Current Pupil Progression
We are committed to supporting every pupil’s journey through each stage of their education. While most of our pupils naturally progress through the key stages in line with their peers and National Curriculum expectations, we continuously monitor academic development to ensure every child is on the right path.
Pupils who may be experiencing difficulty in meeting the expected level of progress will be supported with targeted learning interventions designed to help them overcome any challenges. Our dedicated teaching staff work closely with families to ensure clear communication and shared understanding.
