Downe House Riyadh is celebrating exceptional academic achievements after students delivered outstanding performances in the Mawhiba Multiple Cognitive Aptitude Test while securing offers from leading universities across the UK, US and Europe.
This year, four students from the school excelled in the Mawhiba Multiple Cognitive Aptitude Test, a nationally recognised assessment administered by the King Abdulaziz & His Companions Foundation for Giftedness & Creativity “Mawhiba”. The assessment identifies and supports students with high academic potential across Saudi Arabia.
This year’s recipients include Aseel AlBagieh (Year 8), Safanah Alhomood (Year 5), Jodi Alrehaili (Year 9), and Lulwa Alhabdan (Year 4).
The students’ achievement reflects not only academic ability, but also critical thinking, problem-solving skills and intellectual curiosity, all of which contribute to success both inside and outside the classroom.
Sixth Form Students Secure International University Offers
The school’s commitment to academic excellence continues into the Sixth Form, where students from the current Year 13 cohort have received offers from prestigious international universities.
These include Russell Group universities such as Southampton, Nottingham and Sheffield, alongside institutions in the United States and Europe.
Among the standout achievements, Year 13 student and Saudi national, Leen Alyahyawi achieved a major milestone after receiving acceptance to Berkeley University alongside a full Saudi scholarship, demonstrating the calibre and global readiness of Downe House Riyadh students.
Yasmin Zaini, Downe House Riyadh’s Head Girl and Saudi national, also secured multiple offers and scholarships from globally recognised institutions including IE University Madrid, Indiana University Bloomington and the University of Colorado Boulder.
Alongside her academic studies, Yasmin has balanced participation in an international training programme with the Saudi National Snowboarding Team, reflecting both academic excellence and personal commitment.
Personalised Support for Student Success
Commenting on the achievements, Ms Deborah Sharifi, Principal of Downe House Riyadh, said:
“We are incredibly proud of our girls and all they have achieved. Their success reflects not only their individual dedication, but also the strength of the academic pathways and personalised support that makes the difference at Downe House Riyadh. From national recognition to global university offers, we are committed to ensuring every one of our young women is equipped with the confidence, knowledge, and direction to succeed in their chosen future.”
Students at Downe House Riyadh benefit from personalised academic guidance throughout their educational journey, including dedicated support from the Sixth Form team to explore university pathways, identify suitable courses and navigate scholarship opportunities.
The school also collaborates closely with international university partners and specialist providers to ensure students receive comprehensive support as they prepare for higher education.
Supporting Opportunities in Saudi Arabia and Beyond
The school’s personalised approach also supports students pursuing higher education opportunities within Saudi Arabia.
Student Haya Alabdulwahab demonstrated this through her outstanding score in the Qudrat examinations, a key milestone supporting progression to a leading university in the Kingdom.
Rooted in a premium British education and shaped by Saudi culture, Downe House Riyadh offers students a balanced educational experience that combines international perspectives with strong cultural foundations.
The school said these achievements reinforce its commitment to delivering a future-focused education aligned with the ambitions of students and families across the Kingdom.
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Further Reading:
- Downe House Riyadh Celebrates Outstanding A Level and GCSE Results 2024/25
- Downe House Riyadh Recognised Among Top Global Schools by ABT International