Is it a big sin to cheat during exams and tests?

Cheating for exams is something most of us are guilty of doing or have done at some point. We often do it because - Everyone else are doing it and hence it feels okay if you do it too - There are less risks and great benefits - in some cases, cheating or copying maybe relatively easy and less riskier - We are too lazy to prepare for a test, and copying is an already decided alternative - It may be an important exam or test, and failing is not an option for you There maybe more reasons, but whatever maybe the reason, we need to look at this matter carefully because a sin is a sin no matter how common or uncommon it is. 

There are two helpful things to look at. 

God's view 

Remember that everything is seen by God (Jer 23:24) and God considers even a slightly dishonest act as an abomination (Prov 12:22). So in God's cheating for exams is a very displeasing act and the seriousness with which God deals with dishonesty can be seen in the story Ananias and Sapphira(Acts 5:1-11). 

Our Call 

Another thing to ask ourselves in such situations is to consider our call. We as believers are called to live blameless and harmless lives - so that we would be distinctly shining in the midst of this dark world(Phil 2:15). We are in the light, and hence we should walk as children of light(Eph 5:8). Maybe everyone and anyone maybe compromising - but not us. If our lives are not an example to others, then our efforts to verbally communicate the message of the Bible is of no use. Take right decisions and stay different. 

"Winning at all costs isn't as important as being honest at all costs." - Chuck Thomson 

So the next time when you're left with a choice of winning and doing what's right, choose to do what's right - online, small tests, big exams - whatever it maybe!