A suspension for academic dishonesty usually isn’t the end of a student’s college career, but it does change the path back. Depending on the school, a suspension can limit where a student may earn credit while away, leave a notation on the transcript, and come with conditions that must be met before the student can register again. At Wake Forest, for example, a student suspended for an Honor Code violation can’t earn credit toward Wake Forest graduation requirements anywhere during the suspension.
Suspension and readmission rules vary by school and change over time. This article describes common requirements drawn from colleges’ published policies; the school’s current policy and the terms of the student’s own sanction are what control.
Credit During a Suspension
Many schools limit what a suspended student can do academically. Wake Forest’s rule, described above, covers credit earned anywhere. Boston University’s code states that during a suspension, no coursework may be undertaken for BU credit and no BU degree may be conferred, as described in our Boston University post. Students who plan to take classes elsewhere while suspended should know whether that credit will count before enrolling.
Transcript Notations
A suspension can appear on the transcript. Syracuse lists suspension with a transcript notation among its Level 3 sanctions. American University’s code lists suspension with a notation on the transcript, and CU Boulder notes that an Honor Code suspension is recorded on the transcript and kept on file permanently. Whether and how long a notation stays depends on the school, a topic covered in does academic misconduct show up on your transcript.
Conditions for Returning
Some schools require students to complete specific steps before they can register again. Syracuse, for example, requires students found responsible for a violation to complete an Academic Integrity Seminar before registering for later semesters. Other sanctions may include probation after return, educational assignments, or meetings with a dean.
Readmission Isn’t Always Automatic
At some schools, a student who has been separated must apply to return, and readmission isn’t guaranteed. Notre Dame’s procedures, for instance, state that a dismissed student may be eligible to apply for readmission but that readmission isn’t guaranteed. A pending case can also affect a return: the University of Tampa reserves the right to deny readmission until an academic integrity process is complete if a student withdraws before it ends.
Repeat Violations After Returning
Returning students often face stricter rules. At Clemson, for example, a repeat offense carries a mandated penalty that includes an F in the course and suspension. Wake Forest’s procedures state that expulsion is the normal sanction for a second academic Honor Code offense. That makes the period after return especially important. Students in graduate and professional programs face their own readmission issues, discussed in can you fight a graduate school dismissal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take classes at another college while suspended?
It depends on the school. Wake Forest, for example, doesn’t allow suspended students to earn credit toward Wake Forest graduation requirements anywhere during the suspension.
Will an academic integrity suspension show up on my transcript?
At many schools, yes. Syracuse, American University, and CU Boulder, for example, record suspensions on the transcript.
Do I have to reapply after an academic integrity suspension?
Some schools require an application or conditions before return, and some state that readmission isn’t guaranteed.
What happens if I have another violation after returning?
Penalties often increase. At Wake Forest, expulsion is the normal sanction for a second academic Honor Code offense.
Getting Help With a Return or Readmission
Returning after a suspension often means meeting conditions, deadlines, and readmission requirements that come from the original sanction. Richard Asselta, student defense attorney, advises students in academic integrity processes nationwide. He helps students understand the terms of their sanction, prepare readmission materials, and plan for a successful return. Call 855-338-5299 or learn more about Richard Asselta.