Iraq Updates Cheating Penalties for University Students

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Higher Education Ministry announced changes to exam cheating penalties for university students on June 3, 2026. The new regulations establish a graduated system of punishments tied to the severity of the offense. Under the revised rules, a first offense results in failure of the specific exam where cheating occurred. A second offense carries failure of the course along with a requirement to retake second-semester exams. A third offense means failure in all courses. The most severe penalty applies to students who cheat in the most serious form, which includes cases where someone takes an exam in place of another student. Those found guilty face expulsion from the university and referral to judicial authorities for prosecution.