In Flanders, the exceptional success rate for an examination of medicine reveals the use of artificial intelligence. Students who failed in the competition decided to bring the case to court.
In France, the medicine sector is notoriously difficult to access. Before the reform of 2020 , many students would often re-enroll in their first year of common health studies (PACES) after failing the entrance exam, hoping to succeed on their second attempt. However, the situation is not drastically different for students in Flanders , Belgium, where the “Medicine entrance exam is the most severe competition in the country.” A limited number of places at universities exacerbates the pressure, making the test a formidable barrier for aspiring medical students.
Extraordinary Results
This year, the results have taken a different turn, challenging the narrative of inaccessibility. According to a report from a Belgian daily newspaper, an astonishing 47% of candidates for the 2025-2026 academic year passed their entrance examination. This marks a substantial increase compared to previous years, with only 18.9% succeeding in 2024 and 36.7% in 2023.
The spike in success rates raises eyebrows, especially considering the history of the entrance exam. Just last year, the number of successful candidates was so low that the number of available places had to be reduced, plunging the hopes of many students into uncertainty. This year, approximately 2,600 students were admitted , yet only 1,700 places were available, meaning that nearly 900 candidates will find themselves unable to pursue their studies in medicine. Such a drastic shift in admission rates is virtually unheard of.
A coordinator from a structure that assists candidates in preparing for the entrance examination expressed skepticism about the record results. Quoted by VTM , the coordinator pointed out that if these numbers were true, it would imply that this year produced “the most talented promotion in twenty-seven years.” Importantly, he noted that the exam questionnaire was not perceived as being any easier than in previous years, igniting further discussion around the implications of such extraordinary results.
Reinforced Mistrust… in 2026
The unprecedented success rates have not only excited successful candidates. Those who did not pass the exam have raised serious concerns, leading five individuals to take legal action on the grounds of suspected artificial intelligence fraud . The possibility of cheating looms large, especially since this was the first year that the exam was administered on a computer—implying new opportunities for dishonest practices.
Compounding these concerns, reports have indicated that at least three students were previously excluded for suspected use of AI during the preparation phase for the exam. This backdrop of alleged misconduct has led to a heightened sense of mistrust surrounding the validity of the results. As detailed in the article from Het Laatste Nieuws , the case presents a profound dilemma for the committee responsible for the examination.
While the committee has not been able to confirm or deny the accusations, they stated a commitment to “do otherwise next year.” This statement reflects a recognition of the need for tighter controls and more transparent procedures, particularly given the stakes involved in medical training. The integrity of the examination process is paramount to ensuring that future doctors possess the requisite knowledge and ethical standards necessary for their responsibilities.
The unfolding saga surrounding the entrance exam in Flanders raises critical questions about the intersection of technology, education, and integrity. As educational institutions increasingly adopt technology in their evaluation processes, the need for robust measures to curb cheating becomes ever more pressing. The implications of this situation extend beyond the immediate cohort of students and may affect policies on entrance examinations for years to come.
In closing, the discourse surrounding the medical entrance examination in Flanders serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities and challenges inherent in educational systems, particularly in high-stakes fields like medicine. As students, educators, and policymakers navigate this landscape, the lessons learned from this year’s exam outcomes will undoubtedly shape future protocols and educational reforms. The conversation surrounding the use of artificial intelligence in examinations is only beginning, setting the stage for a multitude of possibilities and challenges in the years ahead.