The National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) announced that the 2026 undergraduate entrance exam will be held online and will feature surveillance supported by artificial intelligence (AI). In an official statement, UNAM affirmed that the exam format is part of a process that seeks to expand inclusion, ensure transparency, and facilitate the participation of applicants both within and outside the country.
Here are six key points you should know about the UNAM admission contest:
1) Online exam and greater inclusion The online exam format will allow more people from Mexico and abroad to compete for a spot at UNAM. UNAM anticipates an increase in total participation.
2) More applicants and international coverage In the previous process, the Open University and Distance Education System registered more than nine thousand additional applicants; in addition, 500 people applied from the United States and 250 from correctional facilities.
3) 133 undergraduate programs and 270 educational options The academic offering includes 133 undergraduate programs, representing 270 educational options, considering campuses, systems, and modalities. The complete call can be consulted on the official UNAM website.
4) AI surveillance, human decisions Exam surveillance is carried out by university personnel and authorities, with AI support to detect anomalous behavior. The review of evidence is human before any determination. AI does not cancel anything; humans make the decisions.
5) Audited and certified process The contest has audit observation, is notarized, and has ISO 9000 certification, which ensures compliance with university regulations and the current call.
6) Environmental and logistical benefits The online application reduces massive travel and resource consumption: it avoids the mobilization of hundreds of thousands of people, the use of millions of sheets of paper, the generation of waste, and significant water consumption. Registration began on January 23 and will remain open until 4:00 PM on February 3. This modality benefits applicants with health, distance, or mobility limitations, as well as those residing outside the country or in specific contexts, such as people in custody.
