Admission fraud triggered policy changes at National Taiwan University after administrators reinstated a graduate student whose enrollment was unlawfully canceled by a roommate earlier this year. The case highlighted vulnerabilities in the school’s authentication system and renewed concerns about digital security in higher education.
The student, identified as Chen, completed his enrollment process for a master’s program in March. However, he later discovered his status had changed to forfeited without his knowledge. Investigators eventually traced the modification to his roommate, surnamed Lo, who studied at National Chi Nan University.
Officials determined that Lo accessed Chen’s login credentials after photographing his identification card. Investigators stated that Lo used those details to enter the NTU system from his home in Nantou County and manually select the withdrawal option. The incident marked a rare confirmed case of admission fraud within Taiwan’s higher education sector.
During questioning, Lo admitted he accessed the account without permission and altered electronic records. Prosecutors said his actions violated the Personal Data Protection Act and applicable criminal statutes. However, they approved a deferred prosecution for one year after Lo reached a settlement with Chen. As part of the settlement, Lo must also complete a government-approved legal education course.
NTU stated that its admissions committee reviewed the case and voted to allow Chen to begin study this academic year. Administrators emphasized that the decision aimed to restore fairness and prevent long-term academic harm. The university also confirmed that internal records showed no similar admission fraud cases in recent years.
However, NTU acknowledged weaknesses in its previous login process. As a result, the school introduced new verification steps requiring users to obtain a one-time password sent to a personal email before accessing records or confirming enrollment choices. University officials said the update ensures greater protection against unauthorized account access.
Education experts noted that digital platforms play an increasing role in academic administration, making cybersecurity more important. They also warned that admission fraud risks could grow as more institutions shift essential processes online.
NTU said it will continue evaluating security protocols and provide additional reminders for students to safeguard personal information. Administrators stressed that trusted systems remain essential for academic integrity and student confidence.
