Cambridge Cancels AS Level Mathematics Paper After Leak, Announces New Examination Date

ISLAMABAD — Cambridge Assessment International Education has cancelled the May 2026 AS Level Mathematics examination paper after a leak was detected, announcing that a new examination date has been scheduled for affected students across Pakistan. The decision affects thousands of students who were preparing for the subject examination as part of the Cambridge International AS and A Level qualification cycle.

The cancellation follows the discovery that the examination paper had been compromised before the scheduled test date, prompting Cambridge to take immediate action to maintain the integrity and fairness of the examination process.

Details of the Cancellation

Cambridge announced that the affected paper has been invalidated and will not contribute to students' final assessment results. Instead, a completely new examination paper has been prepared and a fresh date announced:

• Original Paper — Invalidated due to leak before scheduled examination date
• New Date — Cambridge has confirmed a rescheduled examination date for the replacement paper
• Affected Candidates — All students registered for the AS Level Mathematics examination in the May 2026 series
• Notice Period — Candidates and schools notified through official Cambridge channels

Cambridge's Response Protocol

Cambridge Assessment International Education follows a strict protocol when examination security is compromised. The standard procedure includes immediate invalidation of the affected paper, preparation of an alternative examination, and communication with all registered centres regarding the revised schedule.

Officials stated that the integrity of the Cambridge qualification system remains the top priority, and such measures are taken to ensure that all candidates are assessed fairly and that the value of the qualification is maintained.

Impact on Students and Schools

The paper leak and subsequent cancellation have created uncertainty for students who had been preparing for the examination according to the original schedule. Schools in Pakistan have been advised to contact their Cambridge coordinator for specific details regarding the rescheduled examination and any changes to preparation timelines.

Educational institutions across the country have been working to support affected students, providing updated study schedules and ensuring that candidates remain focused on their preparation for the rescheduled examination.

Broader Context

Paper leaks have been an ongoing concern in Pakistan's examination systems, with both local examination boards and international qualification bodies taking steps to enhance security measures. Cambridge has been working closely with examination centres in Pakistan to strengthen protocols and prevent similar incidents in the future.

Candidates are advised to continue their preparation as normal and to check official Cambridge communications for any further updates regarding the examination schedule.