Cambridge International Education has issued an important update regarding the early leakage of certain A Level and AS Level examination papers, announcing new decisions for affected candidates.
According to a statement issued by the institution, as informed on May 13, the Cambridge International A Level Mathematics Paper 32 (9709) examination had been postponed as a precautionary measure. It will now be conducted on Monday, June 8, under the revised June 2026 schedule.
Cambridge clarified that despite the changes in the examinations, the result release date of August 11, 2026, will remain unchanged, while the British Council will soon issue detailed instructions regarding the conduct of the examination.
Confirmation of Mathematics and Computer Science Paper Leaks
According to the Cambridge administration, investigations confirmed that the Cambridge International AS and A Level Mathematics Paper 52 (9709/52), conducted in administrative Zones 3 and 4, had been illegally shared before the examination.
Similarly, it has now also become clear that the AS Level Computer Science Paper 12 (9618/12), held on May 12, was leaked in Pakistan before the examination.
Cambridge stressed that the circulation of leaked material in a country does not necessarily mean that the breach originated there. According to the institution, investigations are still ongoing to determine the original source.
Read more: Are O-level, A-level exams getting postponed in Pakistan
Important Decision to Protect Honest Students
Cambridge International Education stated that its top priority is to ensure fairness for students who did not engage in any misconduct, as such students form the overwhelming majority.
According to the institution, it is essential that those involved in cheating are not able to gain any unfair advantage so that all candidates can compete on equal grounds for university admissions.
For this purpose, Cambridge’s senior assessment experts have decided that all candidates in Zones 3 and 4 for AS and A Level Mathematics Paper 52 will be awarded “assessed marks.”
Meanwhile, the “assessed marks” method will also be applied for candidates across Pakistan for AS Level Computer Science Paper 12.
What Are “Assessed Marks”?
According to Cambridge, “assessed marks” are a recognised and research-based method that is also used by other examination boards in the United Kingdom.
This method is generally adopted in situations where a candidate is unable to appear in an examination due to valid reasons such as illness or an accident.
The institution assured that universities fully recognise and trust such results.
Position on Examination System Security
Cambridge International Education stated in its announcement that challenges related to examination security are not limited to a single board; rather, examination bodies worldwide face similar risks.
According to the institution, strict security measures are implemented at every stage of examination paper preparation, transportation, storage, and distribution to maintain the transparency of the examination system.
At the same time, students were warned to remain cautious of rumours, fake information, and fraudulent schemes circulating on social media.
Also read: Students face mismanagement at A level, O level, IGCSE exam centres in Islamabad
