Cambridge International has cancelled the AS Level Mathematics Paper 12 examination held on April 29 after confirming evidence of a question paper leak in several countries including Bangladesh.

In a statement issued on Thursday, May 7, the examination board said the paper could no longer be used to determine final grades because of the scale of the breach.

The cancelled examination was part of the AS Level qualification under the A-Level programme. Cambridge said all affected candidates in administrative Zones 3 and 4 will be required to sit for a replacement examination on June 9 using an alternative question paper.

The board confirmed that students and schools will not have to pay any additional fees for the rescheduled exam.

Cambridge said the decision was taken to protect the integrity of the assessment process and ensure fairness for all candidates.

“A fair result for all candidates can only be ensured through an alternative question paper,” the statement said, adding that the grades awarded through the replacement test would remain acceptable to universities and other institutions.

Despite the disruption, Cambridge said the official results publication date will remain unchanged. Results are scheduled to be released on August 11.

The board also announced that schools will receive detailed instructions and a frequently asked questions document regarding the replacement examination process by May 15.

Cambridge said it is working with law enforcement agencies as part of an ongoing investigation into the incident.

“The theft of confidential examination material is currently under investigation,” the statement said.

The board warned that anyone found responsible for leaking the confidential paper could face severe penalties including permanent disqualification from Cambridge examinations.

Apart from Bangladesh, the cancellation also affects parts of Africa, Europe and the Middle East as well as India, Pakistan, Nepal, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia.