KPK Warns Against Gratification in New Student Admissions

JAKARTA - The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has issued Circular No. 7 of 2026 on Preventing Corruption and Controlling Gratification in the New Student Admission System (SPMB). Through the circular issued on 25 May 2026, the KPK reminded all education providers not to engage in gratification practices or abuse of power during the new student admission process. KPK Chief of the Prevention Network Task Force for Gratification and Public Services, Abdul Aziz Suhendra, stated on Saturday (30 May 2026): ‘All education providers must refrain from gratification practices and abuse of authority in the new student admission process.’ KPK stressed that any request for gifts or fees during SPMB implementation is prohibited and could lead to corruption charges. Abdul said all prospective students must have equal access to education in accordance with applicable regulations. Therefore, the KPK requested all technical units in education, madrasah education, and religious education to set an example by not requesting, giving, or receiving gratification related to their duties that conflict with their responsibilities. ‘Requests for money or gifts by civil servants or non-civil servants, including educators and education staff, whether individually or on behalf of educational institutions to the public or other civil servants, are prohibited acts that may have criminal implications,’ Abdul added. The KPK revealed ongoing findings of illegal fees in the new student admission process. Moreover, the KPK highlighted ‘requests’ for student placements by certain parties, which threaten fairness and meritocracy in education access. The KPK also identified data manipulation in SPMB implementation, such as fabricated residency, misuse of affirmative action channels, and alterations to accepted student lists. Through this circular, the KPK also reminded civil servants and education providers of their obligation to report gratification received in connection with their duties that conflict with their responsibilities. Reports must be submitted to the KPK within 30 working days of receiving the gratification. However, all reports must be submitted via the Gratification Online (GOL) application. The KPK hopes local governments, educational institutions, and all stakeholders will jointly uphold integrity and prevent corruption in SPMB implementation.