Which option best describes “academic fraud”?

Academic fraud encompasses a range of dishonest practices intended to misrepresent or deceive in academic settings. The best description of "academic fraud" is reflected in the choice that includes various fraudulent actions, which is why this comprehensive option is the most accurate.

Graduating without completing the necessary requirements signifies a breach of academic integrity, as it undermines the standards and efforts expected in earning a degree. Distributing false grades involves manipulating academic records to create a misleading representation of a student's performance, which also constitutes fraudulent behavior. Claiming credentials not earned is another significant form of misconduct, as it misleads others about a person's qualifications and expertise.

By selecting the option that encapsulates all these actions, it recognizes that academic fraud can take multiple forms, each detrimental to the educational system's integrity. This holistic understanding of academic fraud is essential for promoting honesty and accountability within academic institutions.