Admissions Tips for Parents Joining Compass International School Doha

Admissions Tips by Amanda Hickman

As someone who welcomes new families to Compass International School Doha every week, I know how exciting and sometimes overwhelming an international move can be. From choosing the right school to navigating a new city, there is a lot to think about.

Our Admissions Team is here to make that journey as smooth and welcoming as possible. We guide you through every step, from your first inquiry to your child’s first day of school.

 

Starting Your Admissions Journey

The first step is to apply as early as possible, as spaces in some year groups fill quickly throughout the year. You can easily complete our online application form here.

If you are already in Doha, you are welcome to visit us for a school tour of Themaid (Early Years 1 to Year 13), Madinat Khalifa (Early Years 1 to Year 11), or Gharaffa (Early Years 1 to Year 6).

 

Documents You Will Need

Once you have submitted your application, our Admissions Team will support you in gathering the required documents. Please prepare the following:

• Passports and QIDs (for both parents and child)
• Child’s birth certificate
• Child’s immunisation card
• Most recent school report (attested if coming from outside Qatar)
• Subject options and examination board (for students entering Years 10–13)
• Medical report or any other relevant report

These documents help us understand your child’s background, learning needs, and wellbeing so we can ensure they are placed in the environment that suits them best.

 

Attestation for Families Coming From Outside Qatar

If your child is joining us from a school outside Qatar, attestation of the most recent school report is required by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education. This confirms the authenticity of academic records.

To complete attestation:

• Obtain attestation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the country where your child previously studied.

• Obtain attestation from the Qatar Embassy in (or nearest to) that country.

• Once in Qatar, obtain final attestation from the Qatar Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).

• Year Group Placement and Assessments

Once all documents are received, we will review your application and advise on the next steps. The Ministry of Education and Higher Education determines year group placement based on:

• Your child’s age
• The last completed year or grade in their previous school system

When the year group is confirmed, we will arrange an assessment. If you are overseas, this can be completed online. We can also organise online meetings with our academic team to answer any questions about curriculum or school life before your move.

 

Tips for International Families Moving to Doha

Relocating to a new country is a big transition, and Doha can feel new and unfamiliar at first. The city is vibrant, safe, and family-oriented, and it usually becomes home very quickly.

Our academic year runs from late August to mid-June. Families arriving during the summer should be prepared for high temperatures, and many choose to travel during that time. We also offer a reliable school bus service through Karwa, which serves most areas of the city.

Doha is known for its safety, community spirit, and welcoming culture. There are many parks, activities, and events for families to enjoy.

 

Helping Your Child Settle In

We use a buddy system to support students joining us, where a new student is paired with a peer to help them settle in. We also hold induction days for new families and transition days for students moving into new phases of school life.

Above all, we believe in open communication with parents. Our Admissions and Academic Teams are always available to answer questions and support your family from the very beginning.

Click here each out to us or book a personalised tour today. We look forward to welcoming you to Compass International School Doha!