Studenty Answers
How do I report a cheating violation?
You should report any cheating violations to the faculty member. If there is some reason that you are unable or unwilling to talk to the faculty member, please contact the Office of Student Conduct.
There is currently no requirement that academic misconduct be reported. Having said that, please consider the following information. Reporting these incidents to the Office of Student Conduct gives us the opportunity to work with the student to change their behavior for the future, and to protect the integrity of your class and the University. Sometimes students are reluctant to report the incident to the Office of Student Conduct based on their belief or the students belief that the report of this incident will result in lifelong consequences for the student. This is an exaggeration and in fact, there is even a process where a student can eventually petition to have a suspension notation lifted from their transcript. Again, the goal is to change behaviors and protect the integrity of the University.
I was accused of a violation. What will happen next?
There are two sources of information available on this site to help describe the process. The full procedures are available, as well as an abbreviated primer version. You can also review the form the faculty member will use to resolve the situation. This form includes the steps the faculty member will take to resolve the situation. You can download the Report of an Academic Integrity Violation [PDF] Form here. If you have not spoken with your faculty member in person, that should be your first step. You can also schedule an appointment with staff in the Office of Student Conduct for consultation.
Where can I find the Report of an Academic Integrity Violation Form?
It is available on the Academic Integrity page of this website, or here [PDF].
What if I just didn't know the policies?
All students are expected to know and abide by all University policies. If you violated a policy, you will be held responsible regardless. The system is designed to be educational and you should take this opportunity to learn the University policies as described in the Code of Student Conduct. The Code of Conduct has a list of the academic and non-academic polices. The Academic Integrity policies are also listed separately on this site. If you are ever unsure as to a particular requirement in a specific class, you should always seek clarification from the instructor.
I am not sure how to approach my professor. Who should I ask for advise?
You are always welcome to speak with a staff member in the Office of Student Conduct. We would be more than willing to help you process your situation and answer any questions you have.
What are the possible sanction options if I sign the form?
If you sign the Report of an Academic Integrity Violation Form, the instructor is empowered to assess a sanction in this case, up to and including the assignment of a failing grade for the course. There are a wide range of options that include the following: having you retake a similar exam, reducing the exam grade for that exam including the possibility of no credit for the exam, required attendance in the Academic Integrity Seminar, a failing grade for the course, and a request for a Hearing to explore the possibility of suspension or expulsion. There are other possibilities depending upon the specific case.
What if I refuse to sign the form?
It is your right not to sign the form if you think you are not guilty, or if you would prefer to have the case resolved by the Academic Integrity Review Board. In this case, the faculty member will complete as much of the form as possible, copy the relevant materials, and send the whole packet to the Office of Student Conduct. We will then contact you to schedule a hearing. If you are not sure if you violated a policy, contact a staff member in the Office of Student Conduct for consultation.
Who do I contact if I have questions or need guidance on a case?
Contact the staff in the Office of Student Conduct in 1115 Pullen Hall or at 515-2963.
Will this be on my transcript?
The only notations on transcripts are for suspension and expulsion. For information about how records are keep in the Office of Student Conduct, please refer to the general Common Questions.
What grade will appear on my transcript if grades are due but the case isn't resolved?
There is often an increase in reports of academic misconduct during final exams. If grades are due before the case can be resolved you will likely get an Incomplete. An Incomplete submission provides additional time if necessary to fully explore the issues of the case. Once the case is resolved, the grade will be changed to reflect the outcome of the case.
For additional questions see Common Questions.