At Louisiana State University, a professor can’t simply fail a student for cheating. LSU’s Code of Student Conduct states that an instructor may not assign a disciplinary grade, such as an F or a zero on an assignment, test, or course, as a sanction for admitted or suspected academic misconduct in place of referring the student to the Office of Student Advocacy & Accountability (SAA). Any grade connected to academic misconduct has to follow the Code, and SAA’s process decides the outcome.
LSU’s Code of Student Conduct is revised periodically, and LSU’s other campuses have their own codes. The version in effect at LSU’s main campus when a case arises applies; this summary follows LSU’s current Code and SAA’s published materials.
What Happens to the Grade While the Case Is Pending
When faculty refer an academic case, LSU’s SAA guidance directs them to assign an “I” grade pending the official outcome, and states that faculty must follow the grade impact imposed by SAA. SAA notes that most academic referrals come at the end of the semester, so a case may not be resolved before final grades are due. That end-of-term timing is common nationwide, as discussed in our post on cheating accusations during finals.
You Can’t Drop the Course
LSU’s Code states that a student found responsible for a violation of academic integrity may not drop the course. Northwestern has a similar rule, as explained in our Northwestern post.
The Accountability Meeting
After a referral, SAA creates a case and assigns a hearing officer, and the student receives an accountability meeting letter. LSU’s Code states that during the accountability meeting, the student may be accompanied by an advisor of their choice. Academic cases at LSU often start with exam issues, including online exams, as covered in flagged for cheating in a proctored exam?
The University Hearing Panel
When suspension or expulsion is a possible outcome, LSU’s SAA describes University Hearing Panels as the body that hears the case. LSU’s Code notes that the consequences of a finding can be serious, including a failing grade, a permanent transcript notation, suspension, or expulsion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an LSU professor fail me for cheating without a referral?
No. LSU’s Code states that an instructor may not assign a disciplinary F or zero for suspected academic misconduct in place of referring the student to SAA.
What grade do I get while my LSU case is pending?
LSU’s SAA guidance directs faculty to assign an “I” grade pending the official outcome.
Can I drop the course during an LSU academic misconduct case?
LSU’s Code states that a student found responsible for a violation of academic integrity may not drop the course.
When does an LSU case go to a University Hearing Panel?
When suspension or expulsion is a possible outcome, according to SAA.
Getting Help With an LSU Case
Because LSU routes every academic misconduct grade through SAA, the accountability meeting is where the case is shaped. Richard Asselta, a student defense attorney who advises students in university academic integrity processes nationwide, can serve as an LSU student’s advisor of choice and helps students prepare for the accountability meeting, organize their evidence, and get ready for a University Hearing Panel if one is convened. Call 855-338-5299 or learn more about Richard Asselta.