Academic Integrity of Students

Violations and Sanctions

The Office of Graduate Studies holds academic integrity in the highest regard. Graduate students are responsible for being aware of and complying with University Regulations and Policies and must conduct themselves accordingly.

The instructor will determine the severity of the offense and the appropriate grade. The grade assignments and additional academic sanctions will depend on the seriousness of the offense and may range from the receipt of:

  • Additional academic work, including re-doing the assignment.
  • A reduced grade (including “An “F” or “Zero” grade) on the assignment, subject paper, lab report, etc.,  or for the course with no ability to drop or withdraw from the course for any reason.

  • Formal written reprimand or required educational remediation, including but not limited to: referrals to improve educational outcomes, tutoring regarding proper citation practices, development of an academic plan, participating in ethics workshops, interviews with appropriate faculty or administrators, or writing educational or reflective essays.  Some activities may require fees.

  • Restitution, letter of apology, loss of University privileges (e.g., athletic and/or social events), community service, or other restorative act.
  • Probation – period of time during which any further violation puts the student’s status with the University in Jeopardy, leading to suspension, dismissal or expulsion
  • Suspension or a required Leave of Absence* – student receives an “FF” on the grade for the course, with separation from the University for a specified time, not to exceed two semesters.
  • Dismissal* – student receives an “FF” on the grade for the course, with separation from the University for an indefinite period of time.  Readmission is possible in some cases under documented exceptional circumstances.  NO consideration will be given to readmitting a dismissed student within the first three years after a dismissal is imposed. Dismissal is noted on the student’s transcript.
  • Expulsion* – student receives an “FF” on the grade for the course,  with separation from the University without the possibility of readmission to any graduate program. Expulsion is noted on the student’s transcript. 
  • Possible revocation of the degree or Graduate Certificate following a thorough investigation

*Any student in a Graduate Studies course who receives an “FF” grade is subject to immediate dismissal from the University and will not be eligible to apply to any graduate program at USF.