Dubai, UAE: Public and private schools across the UAE have introduced stricter measures to combat cheating ahead of end-of-term examinations for the third semester of the 2025–2026 academic year.School administrations have emphasised that any form of exam misconduct, including cheating, attempted cheating or assisting others, will result in severe penalties, including immediate failure in the subject. Repeat offences could lead to a zero grade across all subjects and disqualification from retaking exams.Clear guidelines on violationsSchools have distributed the Ministry of Education’s guide on exam misconduct to students and parents, outlining key violations. These include leaking exam content, possessing or using unauthorised materials, impersonation, tampering with official documents, and intentionally damaging answer sheets.The guidelines also cover any actions that breach exam regulations, both inside and outside examination halls.Strict disciplinary proceduresUnder the approved procedures, students committing a first-time offence will receive a zero in the subject involved, along with a deduction of 12 points from their conduct grade. They will also be barred from retaking the exam and their guardians will be summoned to sign an acknowledgment of the violation.For repeat offences, penalties escalate significantly. Students will receive a zero across all subjects, face additional conduct deductions, and be disqualified from retaking exams. They may also be referred to behavioural rehabilitation programmes in coordination with relevant authorities.Focus on exam integrityThe measures are part of broader efforts by the Ministry of Education to preserve examination integrity, ensure fairness among students and reinforce academic discipline during the final assessment period.School administrations said examination processes are being closely monitored by both internal teams and official committees to ensure compliance with regulations.Guidance for students and parentsSchools have urged students to adhere strictly to exam rules, avoid bringing unauthorised materials or devices, and focus on academic preparation rather than resorting to dishonest practices.Parents have also been encouraged to educate their children about the consequences of cheating, both academically and behaviourally.Officials stressed that compliance with regulations remains essential to maintain a fair and organised examination environment that reflects merit and academic achievement.
