IELTS Question Leak in Bangladesh Leads Authorities to Suspend Result Publication

Staff Correspondent

Authorities have postponed the release of the September 6 results of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). The decision was taken to ensure the transparency, security and credibility of the exam after allegations of question paper leaks.

An email sent to candidates on Friday, September 19, said that while results are routinely analyzed before being released, the results of the September 6 exam need to be reviewed in more detail. Therefore, the results will be suspended until the investigation is complete.

According to IELTS rules, the authorities have the power to temporarily or permanently withhold or cancel results if the integrity of the test is questioned. For this reason, a full investigation has been launched to ensure that the test results are reliable.

The investigation process will examine reports from candidates and test center staff, CCTV footage, analysis of answer sheets, and identification documents of candidates. Candidates can also submit their statements if they wish, but they must submit them within the stipulated five days. Any statements made after the stipulated time will not be taken into consideration.

IELTS authorities have said that it could take up to eight weeks to complete the investigation. No progress will be reported during this time. However, efforts will be made to complete the investigation quickly if those who want to use the results for urgent needs provide appropriate evidence.

In addition, candidates who took the test through the British Council or IELTS USA have been asked to contact their respective test centers with their credentials. IDP candidates should send the necessary documents to this email address : [email protected]

At the end of the email, the IELTS investigation team thanked the test takers for their patience and cooperation.

It is worth mentioning that earlier on September 6, Banani Police arrested Panna Poonam Howlader alias Keya and Md. Mamun Khan from the capital. They had extorted money from many students by luring them to give IELTS questions and answer sheets. At that time, 8 lakh 38 thousand taka in cash and 8 mobile phones were seized from them.