China has outlined measures to curb fraud and plagiarism in universities and higher-learning institutes.

In a newly-released circular, the Academic Degrees Committee of the State Council specified punishments for students who plagiarize or commit fraud.

Schools can postpone or refuse to grant degrees to cheats. They can even revoke degrees already awarded.

Tutors of students who commit fraud can be suspended or removed from their post, and all people who involved in the case will be punished according to the relevant regulations, the circular said.

The results of investigation into academic fraud will be written into profiles and made public, according to the circular which was posted on the website of the Ministry of Education.

The committee also urged schools to strengthen the teaching of ethics to both students and teachers.

The committee, however, stressed that the dignity and legitimate rights of those suspected of fraud or plagiarism should be protected during any investigation.

Moreover, authorities should clarify the facts if a suspected cheat is proved innocent.