A private tutor has been sentenced to three years in prison after earning around £300,000 by completing coursework and taking exams on behalf of university students in a large-scale academic fraud scheme.
Shahid Adnan, 43, from Liverpool, admitted to carrying out assignments and online assessments for more than 120 students, including those enrolled at Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU).
The fraud came to light in February 2023 when a student submitted a USB drive containing suspicious coursework to Dr Tom Berry of LJMU’s School of Computer Science and Mathematics. An investigation revealed that the drive had been used by Adnan and contained documents linked to his company, Study Sharp Ltd.
Authorities also discovered spreadsheets detailing students’ coursework deadlines, academic modules, and login credentials. Further inquiries confirmed that Adnan had accessed the university’s systems to submit assignments and sit examinations on behalf of students.
During police interviews, Adnan admitted to taking an exam for one student and receiving £250 for the service. He acknowledged using the student’s login details to access university systems.
Investigators found that Adnan was living far beyond the means expected from his declared occupations as a private tutor and Amazon delivery driver.
Police uncovered multiple bank accounts and a trading account containing substantial funds, along with luxury Audi and BMW vehicles and high-end household furnishings.
Financial investigations revealed more than £2.4 million across several accounts, including over £1.5 million in one Barclays account, while additional funds were held in Lloyds Bank and PayPal accounts.
Police believe Adnan may have provided fraudulent academic services to 124 students at universities worldwide.
Adnan pleaded guilty to fraud by false representation, unauthorized access to computer systems, and money laundering.
Senior Crown Prosecutor Andrew Madden said Adnan created complex financial trails to conceal the proceeds of his crimes while maintaining a lavish lifestyle.
Detective Sergeant Adam Dagnall praised university staff for exposing the scheme, warning that academic fraud undermines educational standards and can allow unqualified individuals to enter professional careers.
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