Concerns rise as multiple Cambridge examination papers are allegedly leaked online, prompting investigations by both Cambridge International and Pakistani authorities.
A student attempts their question paper in Karachi on April 10, 2026. - OnlineKARACHI: The recent leak of multiple Cambridge examination papers has raised significant concerns among students and parents across Pakistan. The controversy began on April 29 when the Mathematics (9709/12) AS-level paper was reportedly leaked after students had already taken the exam. Following complaints and reports circulating on social media, Cambridge International acknowledged the issue and announced that the paper would be retaken.
The situation escalated further when another AS-level mathematics (9709/5) paper allegedly appeared online - including solved answers - several hours before the examination began. Students later claimed that the exact same paper was used during the exam. According to Cambridge's own position, the issue is not limited to Pakistan alone. The leaks are linked to Cambridge’s Zone 3 and Zone 4 examination regions, which include several countries across Asia and Africa.
Cambridge officials say investigations are underway to determine where the papers were leaked from and who was responsible. Pakistan’s Cambridge Country Director Uzma Yousuf stated that the organization is in contact with schools to minimize anxiety among students while the inquiry continues. So far, Cambridge has not announced a final decision on whether more papers will be retaken or if results will be adjusted through aggregation - a process in which marks are calculated using students' performance in other exam components.
Meanwhile, Pakistani authorities have also stepped in. According to officials, a meeting was held at the Ministry of Interior attended by senior education and security officials to discuss the repeated leaks and Cambridge International's response. The Inter Board Committee of Chairmen (IBCC) has also remained in contact with Cambridge International and proposed measures aimed at preventing future leaks, said the body’s executive director, Dr Ghulam Ali Mallah.
Authorities have now decided that the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), along with Pakistan's National Cyber Security Intelligence Agency, will investigate the online circulation of the leaked papers. However, officials say it has not yet been determined how the papers were accessed or distributed before the examinations.
The controversy has sparked frustration among students and parents, many of whom express concern over the significant financial and emotional investment involved in Cambridge examinations. They argue that repeated leaks are particularly damaging for candidates preparing for university admissions and scholarships.
The ongoing investigations aim to address these concerns and ensure fair testing conditions for all participants.
