Selectividad 2026 introduces anti-'cheating' detectors and toughens penalties for exam fraud

PalmThe 2026 Selectividad (PAU) will incorporate a significant reinforcement of control mechanisms with the implementation of radio frequency detectors and the approval of a new agreement on the regulation of fraudulent conduct and sanctions. The device, promoted by the Ministry of Education and Universities and the UIB, will be applied during the tests scheduled for June 2, 3, and 4, 2026, and establishes a system of measures ranging from reprimands to the total invalidation of the call in the most serious cases.

The new regulatory framework has been presented by the Director General of Universities, Research and Higher Artistic Studies, Sebastià Massanet, and by the Vice-Rector for Students and Educational Outreach of the UIB, Cristina Moreno. Both have emphasized that the objective is to guarantee the correct development of the tests under the principles of equality, merit, and capacity, as well as to adapt the control system to the new challenges arising from the use of technology.

The protocol establishes a clear gradation of infractions. Minor offenses, such as occasional unauthorized communications or sporadic glances at others' exams, will result in a verbal warning. In the case of serious offenses, these include situations of academic fraud, communication for the purpose of obtaining answers, or non-compliance with the tribunal's instructions. These behaviors may result in a grade of 0 on the affected test, in addition to further sanctions determined by the evaluating body.

Very serious infractions, such as identity theft, document forgery, or the use of unauthorized electronic devices within the classroom —mobile phones, smartwatches, headphones, or other connected devices—, will lead to expulsion from the process and a "Fail" grade with a 0 in the entire examination. To enhance the detection of these practices, radio frequency detectors (non-inhibitors) will be introduced, which will allow for the identification of hidden electronic devices. Their use will be based on proportionality criteria and with tribunal supervision.

In case of detecting indications of irregularity, the invigilating staff may conduct checks, and if the infraction is confirmed, the measures established according to the severity of the case will be applied. The protocol also incorporates transparency guarantees, as students will be informed in advance about the potential use of detectors, as well as their conditions of use. Similarly, cases of electronic device use for duly justified health reasons are regulated.

Finally, the Ministry has allocated the necessary financial resources to equip the UIB with this equipment, as part of a broader strategy to enhance the security and reliability of the selection process in the face of evolving technological systems and new forms of academic fraud.