More than half of the applicants who took the in-person admissions exam for Mexico’s National Autonomous University (UNAM) will secure a place at the institution, according to rector Leonardo Lomelí Vanegas.
Lomelí spoke outside the Palacio de los Deportes in Mexico City, one of the main testing sites. By 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, 36,885 applicants had completed the exam. He estimated that roughly half would be admitted, reflecting the university’s commitment to keeping its doors open to all Mexicans.
Budget increase requested amid expansion
Lomelí also asked for a budget increase of 1% above expected inflation. The extra funds would support new educational infrastructure and research programs.
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The in-person exam replaced an online version after irregularities were detected. The university had previously canceled around 2% of the online tests due to cheating, unauthorized assistance, and identity fraud.
Results expected by late August
A total of 58,783 applicants registered for the exam, held in Mexico City, León, Oaxaca, and Tijuana. The capital hosted 53,568 test-takers over three days at the Palacio de los Deportes.
Results will be released during the last weekend of August, allowing successful applicants to enroll in their chosen programs by August 31.
During the exam, 22 cheating attempts were caught, including altered documents, cellphone use, and smart glasses with hidden cameras. All affected tests were invalidated. Lomelí noted that the number was low compared to the nearly 30,000 applicants who had already taken the test by the time he spoke.
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The switch to in-person testing follows the detection of irregularities in the online exam. The university aims to reinforce control mechanisms and ensure equal conditions for all applicants competing for spots in its programs.
The Palacio de los Deportes, normally a concert and sports venue, became a testing center for thousands. Security checked entrances, and staff distributed exam materials under strict rules.
UNAM has not said if it will return to an online format. For now, the in-person model remains in place to safeguard the admissions process.
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