Here's what happens when you're caught copying in Mumbai University

"Copying"

Sounds so innocent, right? Not when you're writing your exam.

For those who are unfamiliar with this term, copying during an exam in any form is an offence and is punishable. I learnt it the hard way. Henceforth, I make sure I don't cheat and try to persuade others to do the same.

Many of you don't realise the consequences that one can face for cheating in an exam since most of you are let off with just a warning. So to raise awareness and to help my fellow students, here's what happens when you're caught cheating in an exam:

1. You're caught red handed.
   
   No matter how you copy or what method you use, if you're caught then you'll have to face the consequences. Whatever you were copying from will be confiscated (chits, mobile, question paper, hall ticket, etc.). You'll be given a fresh answer paper to start over again.
   
2. You'll be taken to the Headmaster/Headmistress' office.
   
   During or after you complete writing the exam, you'll be taken to the headmaster/headmistress' office or someone who is in charge of the examination in your college. They'll make you sign an acknowledgement form and once you sign that then there's no turning back. They'll scan the form and the copy material (in case of mobile, it will be confiscated) and mail it to the university.
   
   
3. You'll continue giving the rest of your exams.
   
   You'll be allowed to give the rest of your exams without any hurdles.
   
   
4. You'll get a letter from the University.
   
   After a month, you'll get a letter from the university stating your copying method and that you'll have a meeting with the Exam Committee. The letter will contain the date, timing and venue of the meeting. You'll have to attend the meeting. If for some reason you are unable to attend the meeting you'll be given a second chance. If you don't attend the meeting at all then the committee will take the decision without your presence. The letter also states that you're supposed to show cause notice during the meeting.
   
   
5. You'll have to go to the University.
   
   Before you go to the university prepare a show cause notice if you're innocent (which you probably are not). When asked why you did what you did, tell them the reason. It's up to you to convince them that you are innocent or else straight up confess. Your punishment will be decided according to the severity of your offense. To know various punishments, click here.
   
   
6. Results will be declared.
   
   Once the results are declared, your result won't be on the list. You'll have to contact the university for your result. They'll give your result after a month or so...
   
   
7. You'll have to contact them to know about your result.
   
   Once they tell you that your results are declared you'll have to visit the university again to get it. Before you get it, you'll have to pay the fine that is imposed on you for cheating(They'll send one more letter about the decision they've made and also state the punishment and fine in it). The amount can range from ₹300 to ₹2000.
   

So next time you think of cheating in an exam, think of all the consequences too. All the best!