Criteria for promoting educational staff in 2026: Terms and conditions
The Saudi Ministry of Education announced the adoption of regulations and standards governing the promotion of educational staff for 2026, a step aimed at enhancing efficiency and merit in the education sector. The Ministry confirmed that the deadline for fulfilling all promotion requirements is May 3, 2026 (corresponding to 16 Dhu al-Qi'dah 1447 AH), noting that promotion decisions will be issued automatically to all those who meet the approved criteria and regulations.
These new measures come within the context of the radical transformations taking place in the Kingdom's education sector, which align with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 and the Human Capital Development Program. After years of relying on seniority as the primary factor in promotions, the Ministry launched a new phase with the approval of the "Educational Jobs Regulations," which link a teacher's career path to self-development, job performance, and obtaining a professional license. These standards are a natural extension of that vision, as it seeks to create a competitive and motivating work environment that rewards excellence and ensures the presence of the most qualified personnel in the educational field.
The new selection mechanism: Competence is the basis for promoting those holding educational positions
The Ministry has established a precise mechanism for evaluating candidates for promotion across the three teaching ranks: Teacher, Practicing Teacher, and Advanced Teacher. This mechanism is based on merit and professional competence rather than absolute seniority. Promotion to the rank of "Advanced Teacher" or "Expert" requires meeting specific conditions, including holding a minimum of a university degree, completing at least six years of service for Bachelor's degree holders, five years for Master's degree holders, and four years for PhD holders in their current rank. A valid professional license is also required, along with achieving the minimum required professional development points, and a performance evaluation of "Very Good" or its equivalent for the last three years.
These conditions aim to ensure that promotions are not merely a matter of time, but rather the result of a journey of continuous professional growth and outstanding field performance. This, in turn, positively impacts the quality of educational outcomes, as teachers who continuously strive to develop their skills and knowledge are better equipped to meet the evolving needs of students and keep pace with advancements in modern teaching methods.
Rules for resolving inequalities when comparing options
To ensure complete transparency and fairness, the Ministry of Education has established clear rules for resolving ties between candidates. In the event of a tie, selection will be based on six criteria, ranked according to priority:
- Average performance appraisal score: Excellence is awarded to those who have achieved a higher average in performance appraisals for the last three years.
- Seniority in appointment date: In case of a tie, priority is given to the teacher with the oldest appointment date.
- Seniority in graduation year: If the tie persists, the one with the oldest graduation year for the bachelor's degree is preferred.
- Professional License Degree (Specialization): The highest score in the professional license specialty exam is considered.
- Professional license score (general): Then the highest score in the general exam is considered.
- Professional Development Points: Finally, preference is given to those who have higher professional development points.
The ministry stressed the need for all male and female teachers to review and update their data through the “Faris” system and communicate with the relevant authorities before the specified deadline, stressing that no requests for fulfillment will be considered after this date.
