The Education and Training Evaluation Commission in Saudi Arabia has announced the detailed schedule for opening registration for the 2026 Achievement Test (Tahseeli), one of the most important standardized tests for high school graduates seeking admission to higher education institutions in the Kingdom. The Commission has developed a precise timeline that takes into account the geographical distribution of male and female students across the Kingdom to ensure a smooth registration process.
General context and importance of the achievement test
The Achievement Test, administered by the National Center for Assessment (Qiyas), is a standardized and fundamental criterion for evaluating the academic achievement of high school students in several core subjects. The test focuses primarily on scientific concepts in subjects such as mathematics, chemistry, physics, and biology. The score on this test, along with the General Aptitude Test (GAT) score and the high school GPA, is a key requirement for admission to most Saudi universities and colleges, particularly in scientific, engineering, and health-related fields. The test aims to ensure fairness and equal opportunities for all applicants by providing a standardized and objective measure that is not solely based on a student's performance in school.
Student registration schedule (boys)
According to the authority, registration for male students in the test will begin in successive phases covering all regions, as follows:
- February 23, 2026: Riyadh region.
- February 24, 2026: Makkah Region.
- February 25, 2026: Madinah, Asir, and Qassim regions.
- February 26, 2026: Eastern Province and Jazan Region.
- March 1, 2026: Tabuk, Hail, Al-Jawf, Najran, Northern Borders, and Al-Baha regions.
Student registration schedule (girls)
As for female students, the authority has set registration dates that begin after the male student registration period to ensure the process is organized, and these dates are as follows:
- March 2, 2026: Riyadh region.
- March 3, 2026: Makkah Region.
- March 4, 2026: Madinah, Asir, and Qassim regions.
- March 5, 2026: Eastern Province and Jazan Region.
- March 6, 2026: Tabuk, Hail, Al-Jawf, Najran, Northern Borders, and Al-Baha regions.
Test holding periods and closing dates
The authority clarified that the test will be held in two sessions to provide greater flexibility for students to choose the most suitable date. The first session will begin on May 13, 2026, and continue until May 17, 2026, with the registration deadline being May 14, 2026. The second session will be held from June 5, 2026, to June 9, 2026, with registration closing on June 6, 2026. The authority emphasized the importance of all applicants adhering to the specified dates to secure their places in the test, which represents their gateway to their academic and professional future and reflects the Kingdom's efforts in developing the education system in line with the goals of Vision 2030.
