Is paying money to pass an exam considered a bribe, and would the money earned from a job obtained in this manner be unlawful?

It is not permissible to offer money in exchange for success in an exam, as this is a forbidden bribe. A Muslim should strive diligently and be among those who succeed deservingly, and should fear Allah and seek lawful sustenance. "And whoever fears Allah - He will make for him a way out And will provide for him from where he does not expect." However, if one obtains a lawful job after an unlawful means, the salary is permissible for him in exchange for the work he performs, but he bears the sin of cheating or bribery.