A systematic fraud has been discovered in Britain's student visa system, allowing thousands of foreigners into the country each year.
The Home Office has suspended English language tests run by a major firm after BBC Panorama uncovered systematic fraud in the student visa system.
The secret filming of government-approved exams needed for a visa shows candidates having tests faked for them.
According to the BBC, ETS, which sets the exams but does not appoint the invigilators, told Panorama it does everything it can to detect and prevent cheating.
Home Secretary Theresa May said the evidence revealed by the BBC was 'very shocking'.
Panorama saw candidates for tests set by ETS, one of the largest language testing firms in the world, being replaced by 'fake sitters' and having answers read out to them, the report added.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors
Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share
Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor
Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements
Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app