UNAM detects cheating attempts in in-person exams after AI crisis

The National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) has identified instances of attempted cheating among applicants taking in-person entrance exams. These exams were introduced following a crisis involving the use of artificial intelligence in the university's online admission process. Rector Leonardo Lomelí stated that some applicants attempted to cheat by altering their registration details or using mobile phones in restrooms. He also noted attempts to remove exam questions from the testing sites. Lomelí explained that such incidents are not uncommon in in-person testing formats. The university is reviewing these cases, and applicants have the right to have their situations examined. UNAM convened approximately 38,000 applicants to retake the exam between August 12 and 19 at various locations, including Mexico City's Sports Palace, where over 30,000 attended and 22 cases of alleged cheating were identified. The university had previously suspended registrations and terminated its contract with the company responsible for the digital exam platform due to irregularities and atypical results. The results for this extraordinary admission process are expected on the weekend of August 29-30. The situation has drawn reactions, including from Mexico's president, Claudia Sheinbaum, who suggested UNAM should implement austerity measures and reallocate its budget to ensure student access.