Teacher Demands Bribe for Exams: What Should a Student Do and Where to Report

The exam session is traditionally a period of final exams, tests, and knowledge assessments for students. However, sometimes instead of objective evaluation, some students may face demands to provide money, gifts, or other services in exchange for a positive result. Such actions are manifestations of corruption and entail criminal liability. In case of unlawful benefit demands, it is important not to agree to such conditions but to report the violations to competent authorities.

What a student should do if money is demanded for an exam or test

Demanding money for passing an exam or test is a corruption offense. In such a situation, liability may arise both for the person receiving the unlawful benefit and for the one providing it.

What is considered a bribe

A bribe is a form of unlawful benefit. It is not only about handing over money.

Unlawful benefits may include:

• material valuables, including gifts, electronics, or jewelry;
• transfer of ownership rights to property or rights to use it, for example, free provision of housing;
• any services or actions of a property nature, including free repairs, cleaning, or other work.

What liability is provided

Legislation provides for both fines and imprisonment for corruption offenses.

The minimum punishment may include:

• a fine from 17,000 to 68,000 hryvnias;
• probation supervision for up to three years;
• imprisonment for a term of two to four years.

Additionally, there may be deprivation of the right to hold certain positions or engage in certain activities for up to three years.

The maximum liability includes imprisonment for a term of eight to twelve years with a ban on holding certain positions or engaging in certain activities for up to three years, as well as confiscation of property.

Who is liable for a bribe

Both parties may be held liable for a corruption offense — the person receiving the unlawful benefit and the person providing it.

At the same time, the law provides for the possibility of exemption from criminal liability in case of timely voluntary reporting of the bribe to law enforcement agencies.

Where should a student report

If money is demanded for successful completion of the exam session, a student can contact:

• student self-government bodies or the educational institution's trade union;
• the management of the educational institution;
• the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine;
• the police;
• the National Agency on Corruption Prevention.

How to report corruption

The report should include:

• the full name of the complainant;
• place of residence;
• a description of the circumstances of the possible offense;
• details of the person who likely committed the corruption offense, their position, and place of work.

Before contacting law enforcement agencies, it is recommended to gather possible evidence, including audio or video recordings, as well as witness statements from classmates, friends, or educational institution staff.

Knowledge assessment should be based solely on learning outcomes, and any demands for money or other material benefits for successful passing of exams or tests are illegal.

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