The examinations process at Galway Mayo Institute of Technology (GMIT) is again clouded in controversy as the college confronts another serious cheating scandal.

Management at GMIT launched an investigation into claims that an exam paper came into the possession of one or more final year students, prior to the test last week. The alleged breach came to light following a tip-off.

It is understood the college will now invalidate the ‘contaminated’ exam, and prepare a new paper.

Some 136 fourth year Bachelor of Business Studies students, who sat the Enterprise IT exam last week, may be forced to re-sit an exam next week, or in August.

This has caused outrage among students, many of whom have plans and bookings to work and travel abroad. It is also impacting some international students, who fear being forced to fly back to Galway for a re-sit.

“It will be very messy and very expensive,” said Michael Kerrigan, GMIT Students’ Union President.

GMIT confirmed to the Galway City Tribune it is investigating but declined to provide additional comment.

An emergency disciplinary meeting is scheduled for today (Friday) where the students, along with legal representatives, are expected to protest their innocence.

A college source said the allegations are being treated seriously.

“This has happened at the worst possible time. Not because of the previous plagiarism issue, not because of the ongoing uncertainty over budget cutbacks and possible job losses, but because it’s coming to light at the same time as students fill out their change of mind CAO forms, and make decisions about where they want to study. It’s not helpful.”

For more on the cheating probe, see this week’s Galway City Tribune