The University is an academic community. Its fundamental purpose is the pursuit of knowledge. Like all other communities, the University can function properly only if its members adhere to clearly established goals and values. Essential to the fundamental purpose of the University is the commitment to the principles of truth and academic honesty. Accordingly, The Code of Academic Integrity is designed to ensure that the principle of academic honesty is upheld. While all members of the University share this responsibility, The Code of Academic Integrity is designed so that special responsibility for upholding the principle of academic honesty lies with the students.

Review the complete Code Of Academic Integrity at the Student Honor Council website.

1. I received a letter from the Office of Student Conduct requesting a preliminary interview. What is the purpose of this meeting?
   
   If you are requested to schedule a preliminary interview, you have been referred to our office because you may have violated the Code of Academic Integrity. With your letter, you will find a copy the allegation. During the preliminary interview, you will meet with a Student Conduct staff member and be given the opportunity to respond to the allegation(s). The hearing officer will also provide information about the disciplinary process.
   
   Possible outcomes of Academic Integrity cases include:
   1. Request for an Honor Review Hearing to determine sanctions;
   2. Acknowledge responsibility for committing a violation of the Code and accept the standard "XF" sanction;
   3. Acknowledge responsibilities for committing a violation of the Code, but request an Honor Review for sanctioning purposes only.


2. What happens if I refuse to attend the preliminary interview?
   
   Refusing to attend a preliminary interview means your voice isn't heard in the matter. You also miss the opportunity to carefully discuss the disciplinary process with a member of the Student Conduct staff. In addition, your case will most likely be referred to a judicial board for resolution. In the meantime, our office may place a "block" your student account, this may prevent you from registering for classes. The block may remain on your account until the case has been resolved and if necessary sanctions have been completed.



3. Do I need an attorney?
   
   Informal hearings and other proceedings at an educational institution do not follow the same procedures used in courtrooms. The university does not employ lawyers to "prosecute" students, or apply the rules of evidence used in civil or criminal trial. Instead, charges are investigated and resolved in an atmosphere of candor, truthfulness, and civility. You may have an attorney present if you desire, but you are not required to have an attorney.
   
   In Academic Integrity cases, attorneys may only serve in an advisory role and may not address the board. When facing serious allegations, however, some students find it helpful to have the expertise of an attorney in responding to allegations.
   
   Other students seek the assistance of the Student Legal Aid Office located in the Stamp Student Union. Student Legal Aid is familiar with our process and may prove helpful to you in some circumstances. This is a free service offered to all University of Maryland students. Student Legal Aid can be reached at 301.314.7756. A Student Conduct staff member will be happy to provide you with their brochure during the preliminary interview.



4. What is the difference between a "conference" and a "hearing?"
   
   In Academic Integrity cases, Honor Reviews are convened to hear cases not resolved in the Preliminary Interview.
   
   Hearings are before a panel normally consisting of three Honor Council members and two faculty members. The student and the complaining party generally present their case before a panel of students who render a decision. If a student is found "responsible" for the alleged violation, the board will impose appropriate sanctions. In accordance with the Code of Academic Integrity, the normal penalty for an act of academic dishonesty is the grade penalty of "XF" in the course. The grade is recorded on the academic transcript with the notation, "failure due to academic dishonesty".