With first-term central examinations beginning on November 20, the UAE Ministry of Education (MoE) has rolled out a strict new “Guide to Combating Cheating and Exam Misconduct,” aiming to safeguard the integrity of the national assessment system and ensure fairness for every student.
The comprehensive policy sets out detailed procedures governing all stages of the examination process, from preparation to grading. It extends the responsibility for maintaining academic integrity beyond teachers and invigilators to include students, parents, and school administrators.
Schools have been instructed to conduct awareness campaigns before the exams to educate students about the rules and the severe consequences of cheating. Administrations must also formally share the guide’s contents with all stakeholders and establish internal committees to oversee and report exam irregularities directly to the Ministry.
Penalties for violations are tough. Students found guilty of cheating may face a 12-point deduction from their conduct record, receive a zero in the subject, or have their answer sheet voided if deliberately damaged. Offenders will also be required to complete behavioral rehabilitation programs.
The crackdown extends to school staff, with any employee involved in exam leaks or misconduct facing fines of up to AED 200,000 and further disciplinary measures under federal law. Serious offenses may be referred to higher authorities for investigation.
The guide strictly prohibits the use of mobile phones or electronic devices, photographing or sharing exam papers, communicating with peers, influencing invigilators, or leaving the exam hall without permission. These prohibitions apply equally to both physical and digital misconduct.
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To ensure compliance, the Ministry will conduct unannounced inspection visits to examination and grading centers across the country. The initiative marks a firm step toward reinforcing ethical conduct and academic discipline across the UAE’s education system.