Fatwa

Cheated on exams

Question

Assalamualaykum, I have a question. I admit this is my mistake and I’m regretting it right now. Back when I was in high school, i cheated on the final examination for 5 subject out of 8 subjects. I didn’t think much back then but now it’s bothering me. Out of all that subject, i can say i cheated most on 3 subjects, and this one subject which is a must pass subject. I can’t be certain if I’d pass if I didn’t cheat because we only know our grades not our real mark. Also I’ve been dealing of uncertainty what if i cheated more than i could remember, because if i cheated more than there’s a possibility I’d fail for the must pass subject which is history or get a grade below C for other subjects. Now i already further my study but the qualifications for this diploma is to get 5 C and a pass in History, whilst i can only ensure I’ll get 3c and not certain about history. Now it’s really troubling me because what if i actually dont even deserve to further my study if i didnt cheat. We can actually repeat that exam for subjects that we want to improve our mark and I’m planning to apply for mathematics and history for next year. I’ve asked this question to several aalim online before this and one of them advised me to repeat the exam so that i prove my real capabilities. My question is, if i perform a taubah and repeat that subjects, can I continue my study until i graduate? And will using my high school certificate and diploma then would be permissible? Jazakallah khair

Answer

In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.

As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh.

Make tawbah and istighfaar for your past actions. You can continue to study and graduate.

And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best

Mufti Bilal Pandor

Concurred by
Mufti Muhammad Patel

Darul Iftaa Mahmudiyyah
Lusaka, Zambia

www.daruliftaazambia.com