China has been fighting against academic fraud in recent years. [Photo: Xinhua/Zhu Huiqing]

Dozens of Chinese students at the University of Iowa are under investigation for suspected academic misconduct.

The investigation comes after discrepancies were uncovered during spring exams in the identifications a number of test-takers.

University authorities say they're still reviewing the case, but are promising action against anyone found guilty of cheating.

Chen Hang, head of a Chinese student recruitment agency, says cheating among Chinese students in the United States is becoming a significant problem.

"A notable new phenomenon has emerged among Chinese students. A growing number of them are actively seeking out or launching their own business-like cheating operations. In some cases, several students will work together to form what - essentially - becomes a businesses. It's starting to happen more in prestigious universities and colleges, especially among undergraduates from China."

While cheating among Chinese students studying in the United States may be on the rise, the opposite is reportedly taking place here.

Strict new laws now on the books can lead to jail-time for students involved in cheating on national-level exams.

Officials say this has dramatically cut academic fraud rates in China.