The dreams of hundreds of study abroad aspirants planning to join UK universities have been shattered due to cheating suspicions over PTE Academic Online Test. Pearson revoked some of its results after some universities raised red flags over full or very high marks scored by some students in the PTE test.

Pearson has admitted to testing violations after reviewing some assessments. Following this, the test-taking organisation immediately withdrew or cancelled test scores. However, in-person test scores are still valid.

THE IMPACT OF RESULT CANCELLATION ON STUDENTS

The University of Southampton and some other universities have withdrawn offers to applicants whose test results stand revoked by Pearson. These institutions have cited reasons such as the applicants not meeting the language standards required to flourish in the country and failing to align with the UK visa guidelines.

Unfortunately, students who are not even linked to cheating are suffering, with some British universities not accepting online test proof altogether. These include the University of Sussex and the University of Edinburgh.

In either case, these students are making a beeline for other language exams or looking for a place at another institution. Additional interviews or replacement tests are being organised by a few universities.

But the situation is not favourable as students may not be able to complete these alternatives in time for the upcoming academic year. Although cheating students should be penalised, punishing others for the same reason is unfair.

Chinese and South Asian students are caught up in the unprecedented issue, but as of now, the number of students affected is unclear. Students will receive in-person communication regarding their statuses. Pearson has officially announced on its website that it will no longer conduct the online test in China.

Students are facing problems because last-minute test slots for IELTS are not available. Even those getting a slot are not well-prepared, so their scores will likely suffer.

WHAT NEXT

The situation is dire for aspiring international students looking forward to places in UK universities. The emotional and financial toll may be high, but PTE has done its bit by offering the affected candidates a free voucher for an in-person PTE Academic test.

Many students may apply to the spring intake in Australian institutions. It is the best bet to have enough time for the test preparation without giving up on the chance to study in a world recognised top university.

With this event, many UK universities have suspended acceptance of the PTE Online test for their admissions process with immediate effect. The next steps are not clear yet, but the future of many study abroad aspirants is at risk.