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Academic Conduct

As a student, you are expected to follow the standards of academic integrity, honesty, and responsible academic conduct.

The Senate Academic Conduct Policy and Procedures explains these expectations and outlines what happens when concerns about academic conduct arise.

This site provides guidance, resources, and support to help you:

  • Understand your academic conduct responsibilities
  • Learn what may be considered academic misconduct
  • Know what to expect if an academic conduct concern is raised
  • Find resources and support throughout the process

Quick Links

Student Checklist

Find yourself involved in an academic conduct investigation? Not sure what to do next?

Use the checklist below to understand the steps involved in an academic conduct investigation. Click each section to view the checklist.

Read your Notice of Investigation Letter.
  • Read the letter carefully.
  • Note the allegation(s) and any deadlines.
  • You have 10 business days to respond.

Review the Academic Conduct Policy and Procedures.
  • Become familiar with:
    • Section 5 – Academic Conduct Policy
    • Section 8 – Academic Conduct Procedures
  • Understanding the process will help you know what to expect and your responsibilities.

Gather your information.
  • Collect any documents or information that may help explain your situation, such as:
    • Assignment drafts or notes
    • Research materials
    • Emails or other relevant communications
    • Any information that supports your explanation

Decide how you want to respond.

You may:
• Submit a written response, or
• Request an investigation meeting with the Undergraduate Program Director (UPD).

If you choose a meeting, you may bring one support person. The support person may provide support and advice and speak on your behalf.

Do not drop the course.

A Pending qualifier (PDG) will be placed on your course while the investigation is ongoing.
A PDG temporarily prevents changes to your enrolment, which means you cannot drop the course, withdraw from the University, or obtain official transcripts until the investigation is complete.

If you withdraw from the course before the investigation is complete, the course will be added back to your academic record while the investigation continues.

Be aware.

Your home Faculty may be notified that there is a pending academic conduct investigation.

Respond within 10 business days.

Failure to respond means the investigation may proceed without your explanation.

Attend the meeting (if requested).
  • During the meeting:
    • The allegation(s) will be explained.
    • You will have an opportunity to explain your perspective.
    • You may ask questions about the investigation process.
    • Be honest, respectful, and provide as much relevant information as possible.

Evidence will be reviewed.
  • The Undergraduate Program Director will consider:
    • Information provided by you;
    • Information from the Course Director;
    • Any available documents or evidence; and
    • Information from witnesses (if applicable).
  • Decisions are made using the balance of probabilities (whether it is more likely than not that a breach occurred).

Wait for the decision.
  • After reviewing all available information, you will receive a written Decision Letter.
    Possible outcomes include:
    • No Breach Confirmed
      • The allegation is dismissed.
      • Records relating to the allegation are destroyed in accordance with the Policy.
  • Breach Confirmed
    • The Decision Letter will explain:
      • The breach that was found;
      • Any sanctions or penalties imposed;
      • Any educational requirements; and
      • Deadlines you must meet.
  • If a breach is confirmed, the University will also determine whether there have been any previous academic conduct findings, as this may be considered when determining the sanction.

Read your Decision Letter.
  • Read the letter carefully.
  • Note the breach, sanctions and any deadlines.
  • You have 10 business days to respond.
  • Failure to respond means the investigation decision will stand.

Decide how you want to respond.
  • ACCEPT the investigation decision
    • Respond to the email confirming you agree with confirmed breach and sanctions.
    • Complete any educational sanctions.
    • Submit proof of attendance at workshops (if applicable).
  • APPEAL the investigation decision
    • Respond to the email notifying the unit you will be appealing the investigation decision.
    • Submit your Notice of Appeal: Faculty Appeals Committee Submission Form.
    • If you do not respond within 10 business days, your appeal cannot be considered.

Resources and Support

Need help understanding academic integrity or your responsibilities as a student? Explore these resources for practical guidance and support.

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