MUSCAT: Thousands of students and their families across Oman were on Monday eagerly awaiting for the Higher Education Admission Center (HEAC) results of the trial admission allocation for the 2025/2026 academic year — a critical step in the higher education admission process.
According to HEAC, which operates under the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, all registered applicants will receive SMS notifications informing them of the release. These messages will prompt them to log in to the HEAC system to view their trial results and see which academic programmes they have been tentatively allocated to.
The trial allocation carries significant weight as it offers a snapshot of how a student’s preferences align with their academic performance and the competitive environment.
HEAC explained that the trial allocation allows students to assess whether their academic preferences align with their competitive standing. It also helps them identify any mistakes or adjustments needed before the final allocation. This process reduces uncertainty and gives students a chance to rethink their choices based on a realistic outcome.
Rubaa al Zadjali, a recent high school graduate, stated: “I’m excited to see my trial results. I hope to get into Civil Engineering at Sultan Qaboos University. I selected my preferences carefully, and this step gives us a realistic preview.”
Anas al Maawali, another applicant, commended the system’s fairness but stressed the importance of better guidance earlier in the school year: “We needed more workshops on how to prioritise academic choices strategically. Many students were confused about how to do this effectively.”
Many parents are equally involved, supporting their children through what can be a stressful yet exciting transition. Fatma al Shukaili, mother of a student, remarked: “The trial results allow us to sit down as a family and talk about academic options. We want our children to follow their passions, but we also encourage them to choose programmes with strong career prospects.”
Salim al Rawahi, father of a student applying to medical school, added: “We appreciate the clarity and fairness of the process. Still, more public awareness and simplified communication would help families navigate the steps more confidently.”
To improve engagement and transparency, HEAC has launched an official WhatsApp channel where students can receive real-time updates. A QR code published across platforms links directly to the latest news. Also, students are encouraged to visit the official HEAC to log in and review their trial allocation results. The 2025 trial phase includes several key technical upgrades: improved processing speed, an enhanced user interface and a more flexible platform for editing preferences during the adjustment period. HEAC emphasised that the trial allocation is not final.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
