UCSF Policy on Student Conduct and Discipline

Interim Policy

Effective Date: January 1, 2026

I.  Introduction

The mission of the University of California, San Francisco is advancing health worldwide. As future health care professionals and health science researchers, UCSF students are held to high standards of behavior, particularly in matters of ethics, judgment, and professionalism. As such, student conduct is considered a part of a student’s academic performance. 

UCSF's Principles of Community and PRIDE Values illustrate the expectations for all members of the UCSF community as we work together to fulfill UCSF’s mission. Students are members of both society and the university community, with attendant rights and responsibilities. Students are expected to act consistently with the values of the University community and to comply with all University policies and Implementing Regulations.

By adapting or inserting the actual language of Section 100.00 Policy on Student Conduct and Discipline of the University of California Policies Applying to Campus Activities, Organizations and Students (PACAOS) and Appendix H, this UCSF Policy on Student Conduct and Discipline is the campus implementing regulations for PACAOS Section 100.00 and Appendix H and remains consistent with the systemwide Policy. PACAOS and Appendix H should be followed and read in conjunction with this document and can be found at ucop.edu/student-equity-affairs/policies/pacaos.html and APPENDIX H.

II.  Applicability/Jurisdiction 

A.    Student

1.    The term “student” means an individual for whom the University maintains student records and who

a)    is enrolled in or registered with an academic program of the University;

b)    has completed the immediately preceding term, is not presently enrolled, and is eligible for re-enrollment; or

c)    is on an approved educational leave or other approved leave status, or is on filing-fee status.

2.    This policy also applies to

a)    applicants who become students, for policy violations committed as part of the application process; 

b)    applicants who become students, for policy violations committed on campus and/or while participating in University-related events or activities that take place from the date the student submits an application through their official enrollment;

c)    former students for policy violations committed while a student.

3.    If the student takes a leave of absence or has withdrawn from the University while subject to student discipline, or is otherwise unavailable, the University may find it necessary to move forward to resolve the matter without the student’s participation.

B.    Student Government and Student Registered Campus Organizations

Unless otherwise stated, wherever the Policy on Student Conduct and Discipline refers to “student” the same standards of conduct also apply to Student Government and Student Registered Campus Organizations (RCO)s. 

Unless the organization’s leadership delegates another individual, who serves in a leadership role within the organization, the President (or first officer listed on the registration form with Student Life) will serve as the organization’s representative throughout the process and speak on behalf of the organization. The representative may bring one additional officer with them to any meetings or hearings; however, they remain responsible for representing the organization during the proceedings. 

C.    Off-Campus Behavior

1.    In addition to conduct which occurs on University property or in connection with official university related events, the University shall have the discretion to exercise jurisdiction over off-campus behavior if it: 

a)    adversely affects the health, safety, or security of any member of the campus community; or 

b)    conflicts with the university’s mission and values, Campus Code of Conduct, and UCSF Policy on Student Conduct and Discipline. 

2.    In determining whether or not to exercise off-campus jurisdiction, the University may consider the seriousness of the alleged behavior, the risk of harm involved, whether the victim(s) are members of the campus community, and/or whether the off-campus conduct is part of a series of actions which occurred both on and off campus. 

D.    Other UC Campuses and Off-Campus Sponsored Sites

1.    A student, as defined in Section II.A of these Policies, at one campus of the University, who is accused of violation of University policies or campus regulations on another campus of the University or at an official function of that campus, shall be subject to the disciplinary procedures of either the former or the latter campus as an outcome of conferral between designees of both campuses. The imposition of any recommendations for disciplinary sanctions arising from these procedures must be reviewed and approved by both campuses before the sanctions are imposed.

2.    If an alleged violation of University policies occurs in connection with an official University wide function not on a campus, the student accused of the violation shall be subject to the disciplinary procedures of the campus at which the individual is a student, except in those cases in which the President directs otherwise.

III.  Administration of Student Conduct

The discipline and adjudication procedures detailed in the Policy on Student Conduct and Discipline apply to alleged violations of the Grounds for Discipline 102.02 to 102.25, and 102.28. Student Life’s Student Conduct Administrator (or designee) is responsible for the management of conduct cases under these procedures. 

A.    Other Relevant Policies and Procedures

Students facing multiple allegations of misconduct will, at the discretion of the University, be subject to the applicable policies and procedures for each of the respective violations. These processes may occur concurrently and may result in additional and different outcomes, which may be in addition to those described in Section VI, Types of Student Disciplinary Action. 

Examples of relevant policies and procedures that may also apply to student misconduct, include:  

1.    Sexual Violence, Sexual Harassment, or Other Prohibited Conduct 
When a formal investigation is deemed appropriate for cases involving reports of Sexual Violence, Sexual Harassment or other prohibited conduct by the UC Policy on Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment, campuses shall implement the procedures set forth in PACAOS Appendix E: Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Student Adjudication Framework for Non-DOE-Covered Conduct or PACAOS Appendix F: Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Student Adjudication for DOE-Covered Conduct. Campuses may also apply PACAOS Appendix E or PACAOS Appendix F to adjudicate student conduct violations that occur in connection with violations of the UC Policy on Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment.

2.    Harassment or Other Prohibited Conduct
For cases involving harassment or other prohibited conduct by the University of California Anti-Discrimination Policy, campuses shall implement the procedures set forth in the University of California Anti-Discrimination Policy. In the event there are violations of both the University of California Anti-Discrimination Policy and PACAOS 100.00, campuses may implement both procedures concurrently, after consultation between the Student Conduct Administrator (or designee) and the Local Implementation Officer. 

3.    Academic Professionalism Standards
Academic professionalism standards, including but not limited to PACAOS Grounds for Discipline 102.01 (Academic Misconduct) are subject to the Bylaws, Regulations and Appendices of the University of California, San Francisco Division of the Academic Senate, Appendix VII Divisional Procedure for Student Grievance in Academic Affairs and all applicable School or Graduate Education and Postdoctoral Affairs (GEPA) academic policies and professionalism standards. 

B.    Student Rights and Procedural Standards

1.    Advisors
At all stages of this process, the student has the right to an Advisor. A student may select an Advisor of their choosing or request the University to provide them one. The Advisor may be any person (including an advocate, attorney, friend, or parent), except a person with information relevant to the alleged policy violation.

a)    The Advisor’s primary role is to provide guidance to the student throughout the process. The Advisor may not speak on behalf of the student at any time in the conduct process.

b)    Advisors may not disrupt any meetings or the process in any manner. At all stages of the process, Advisors must comply with the expectations within these procedures for participants in this process. The University reserves the right to exclude an Advisor who does not abide by these procedures. 

c)    All communication with Student Conduct must come from the student; an Advisor cannot communicate with Student Conduct on the student’s behalf. 

d)    In the interest of expediency, the student conduct process may not be delayed due to the unavailability of an Advisor.

e)    The Advisor selected by the student or provided by the campus will have access to training provided by the campus regarding its procedures for student conduct investigation and resolution.

f)    Should a student wish for the Advisor to be copied on Student Conduct’s communication and/or attend meetings and/or hearings with the student throughout the process, the student must provide their written permission to Student Conduct.  

2.    Communication

a)    Student Communication. At all stages of the process, all written communications with the student, including responses and submissions outlined in these procedures, will be via UCSF email unless other arrangements have been made for the student with the prior written approval of the Student Conduct Administrator (or designee). It is the responsibility of the student to inform the University of any issues or interruptions of their UCSF email service.

b)    Student Registered Campus Organizations and Student Government Communication. For matters involving alleged violations by a Student Registered Campus Organization or Student Government, written communication will be sent to the organizational email address(es) listed on the Student Life registration form and the UCSF email of the current President. If a President is not identified, communication will also be sent to the first officer listed on the registration form. 

Additionally, as deemed appropriate, Student Life may notify the RCO and/or Student Government’s advisor(s) as well as the respective academic program, if applicable, regarding the conduct process. 

3.    Participation

a)    If the student fails to respond or chooses not to participate by the deadlines provided by Student Conduct, in the investigation and resolution process (including a formal hearing when required), Student Conduct may proceed in the student’s absence. Appropriate outcomes may be applied unilaterally. Student Conduct may proceed with the investigation and resolution process even if the student is subject to concurrent University processes, criminal or civil proceedings.

b)    The student is not required to participate in the conduct process outlined in these procedures. The University will not draw any adverse inferences from a student’s decision not to participate or to remain silent during the process. A Student Conduct Administrator or Hearing Body, in the investigation or the hearing respectively, will reach findings and conclusions based on the information available. 

c)    When a student selectively participates in the process – such as choosing to answer some but not all questions posed, or choosing to provide a statement only after reviewing the other information gathered in the investigation – a Student Conduct Administrator or Hearing Body may consider the selective participation in evaluating the student’s credibility. In doing so, they should try to discern reasonable non-adverse explanations for the selective participation, including from the student’s own explanations, and determine whether the information available supports those explanations. 

4.    Standard of Proof
The standard of proof for factfinding and determining whether a policy violation(s) occurred is preponderance of evidence. A preponderance of evidence is defined as “more likely to be true than not.”

5.    Disability-Related Accommodations
Students and witnesses may request disability-related accommodations for this process by contacting Student Disability Services.

6.    Language Interpretation and Translation
Student Conduct will consider requests from the student and witnesses for language interpretation and translation.

7.    Timelines

a)    When used in this policy, the term “day” or “days” refer to a full business day(s) and do not include Saturdays, Sundays, legal holidays or University designated administrative holidays.

b)    The Student Conduct Administrator (or designee) may extend any timelines contained in these procedures for good cause shown and documented. Good cause is defined for purposes of these procedures as significant or unforeseen circumstances that impede completion of the process within the projected timeframe.

8.    Closed to the Public. All stages of the process are closed to the public. The responding student, support person, advisor (including attorneys), and witnesses are not permitted to record any stage of the process. 

C.    Response to Alleged Misconduct

1.    Filing a Complaint
Any person may submit a written incident report of alleged policy violation(s) of the Grounds for Discipline 102.02 to 102.25, and 102.28 to the Student Conduct Administrator (or designee). Incident reports must be submitted within sixty (60) days of the date the reporting party knew or should reasonably have known of the alleged violation.

Exceptions to deadlines for reporting misconduct include, but are not limited to:

a)    Reports involving alleged physical abuse.

b)    Reports where the law or an external agency requires that information be withheld.

c)    Reports in which the law or other policy provides for a longer reporting period.

d)    Reports in which the reporting party provides proof of hardship or justifiable excuse for the delay. The Student Conduct Administrator (or designee) has discretion whether to grant an exception taking into consideration the impact of the delay in reporting upon the responding student, including availability of witnesses or evidence.

2.    Initial Assessment
As soon as practicable after receiving a report alleging student misconduct, and typically within 30 days from receipt of all necessary information, Student Conduct shall conduct a preliminary assessment to determine whether the report falls within the scope of these procedures and whether the allegations, if true, may constitute a policy violation.

3.    Interim Actions
Consistent with PACAOS 107.00, the University may take Interim Actions before a final determination of an alleged violation, as described in Section IX, Interim Action.  

4.    Advisory Notice
As an alternative to resolving alleged policy violations of the Policy on Student Conduct and Discipline, Student Conduct may issue a written notification to a student that the student’s alleged behavior, if it occurred, would have violated University policy, and could have been subject to the conduct process. The Advisory is not a determination that the allegations are true, does not result in a conduct record, and therefore is not appealable. However, the alleged behavior as detailed in the Advisory may be introduced in a subsequent conduct process for the purpose of establishing that the student was advised that such behavior violates University policy. Student Conduct may issue an Advisory Notice in cases where alleged misconduct suggests a violation, but information is limited or may be inconclusive or incomplete. Normally the issuing of an Advisory Notice will close the matter, however, should additional relevant information be discovered in the future the matter may be reopened.

5.    Notice of Allegations and Opportunity to Meet
If a policy violation may have occurred, the student will receive a written Notice of Allegations, which will include the following: 

a)    The alleged misconduct, the specific policy or policies allegedly violated;

b)    A statement that the decision will be based on a preponderance of the evidence standard;

c)    A summary of the procedures for resolution, including the opportunity to meet with the Student Conduct Administrator (or designee) and the purpose of that meeting;

d)    A copy of the Policy on Student Conduct and Discipline;

e)    Their right to review the information submitted that is directly related to whether a policy violation has occurred;

f)    Their right to an Advisor, as described in Section III.B.1; 

g)    A list of campus resources to help them navigate the process.

At any point during the process, as new or additional information becomes available the University will reevaluate the most appropriate response. If a written notice of alleged violation was sent out to the student, the notice may be amended. Amendments may include additional alleged policy violation(s) under the Grounds for Discipline 102.02 to 102.25, and 102.28, as well as the corresponding range of potential sanctions. Referrals may be made to the appropriate officials for other violations. 

6.    Investigation Process
Allegations of misconduct will be investigated by Student Conduct or their designee. 

When a law enforcement agency is conducting its own investigation, the Student Conduct Administrator (or designee) may coordinate with the law enforcement investigation. The process may be delayed as needed to meet any specific needs of the criminal investigation. 

The Student Conduct Administrator (or designee) will offer a meeting for the purpose of explaining the alleged violation(s), discussing information that was received in relation to the allegation(s), and providing the student with an opportunity to respond to the allegation(s) and to present any information that may assist in investigation and resolution of the case. 

The student has five (5) days from the date of the notice of alleged violation to contact the Student Conduct Administrator (or designee) to schedule a meeting. If the student does not schedule a meeting, the investigation will proceed without their participation. 

The Student Conduct Administrator (or designee) will meet separately with witnesses who may have relevant information and will gather other available and relevant information. The Student Conduct Administrator (or designee) may follow up with the student as needed to clarify any inconsistencies or new information gathered. The University recognizes it cannot compel any individual to participate as a witness. However, witnesses are encouraged to participate. 

The Student Conduct Administrator (or designee) may determine and weigh the relevance of any witness or other information to the allegations and may exclude certain types of information that it determines is irrelevant or immaterial. In general, the Student Conduct Administrator (or designee):

a)    Will consider direct observations and reasonable inferences from the facts.

b)    Will not consider statements of personal opinion as to anyone’s general reputation or any character trait. 

c)    May consider prior or subsequent conduct of the student in determining pattern, knowledge, intent, motive, or absence of mistake. 

The Student Conduct Administrator (or designee) will review the facts and information available and shall determine, based on the preponderance of the evidence, whether it is more likely than not the student violated University policy.

All investigations shall be concluded promptly, generally within 60 to 90 days of issuing a Notice of Allegations, unless there is good cause for an extension. The investigation timeframe is concluded when an Administrative Resolution has been issued by Student Conduct. The investigation timeframe may also be concluded if an Alternative Resolution process is initiated.  

IV.  Resolution Pathways

The following resolution pathways are available generally as an outcome of the Student Conduct Investigation Process. A determination on which resolution pathway will be followed will typically be made within the 60 to 90 day investigation timeframe.

A.    Closure – No Responsibility or Insufficient Information

If the Student Conduct Administrator (or designee)’s determination is that the student is not responsible for violating University policy, or if there is insufficient information to make a determination, Student Conduct will notify the student accordingly and may issue an Advisory Notice or take no further action.

B.    Alternative Resolution

At any point during the process, Student Conduct may offer an Alternative Resolution option (e.g., mediated dialogue, restorative justice, educational agreement), subject to the following conditions:

1.    The student does not dispute the facts relevant to whether the policy violation occurred, and/or acknowledges responsibility;

2.    All involved parties who are willing to participate in any process, including any impacted individuals, consent in writing to participate. The Student Conduct Administrator (or designee) will determine who is an “involved party.”

Not all allegations are eligible for Alternative Resolution. The Student Conduct Administrator (or designee) is responsible for making the final decision regarding whether or not Alternative Resolution is appropriate and may change their determination if additional information is received. 

If the Student Conduct Administrator (or designee) determines a case is appropriate for an Alternative Resolution, they will notify the student of the opportunity to meet to discuss options for resolution. The student has five (5) days to schedule a meeting. 

After a meeting, the Student Conduct Administrator (or designee) will send the student an Alternative Resolution Agreement. The Agreement will include educational or restorative components. The student has five (5) days to accept or reject the Alternative Resolution Agreement. 

Upon acceptance of the Alternative Resolution Agreement, the student waives the right to a hearing and appeal. Records of Alternative Resolution will be maintained as a non-disciplinary record (unless otherwise agreed to within the resolution plan), but failure to accept the Agreement or to comply with the terms of the Agreement may lead to a cancellation of the Alternative Resolution Agreement and a return to the investigation and/or resolution process. 

Student Conduct will complete the Alternative Resolution process typically within 30 to 60 days of notifying the student in writing of the beginning of the process. However, Student Conduct may extend past 60 days for good cause.

C.    Administrative Resolution

1.    Notice of Administrative Resolution. If the Student Conduct Administrator (or designee) has determined that the student is responsible for violating University policy, Student Conduct will send the student a Notice of Administrative Resolution. The notice will include the following: 

a)    A statement of the determinations as to whether the charges have been substantiated based upon the preponderance of evidence;

b)    A description of any policies that have been violated;

c)    A description of sanction(s); 

d)    The rationale for the determinations and assigned sanction(s); 

e)    The options for appealing the outcome or requesting a hearing, as outlined in Section IV.C.2.  

2.    Student Options for Response

a)    If the student accepts the Administrative Resolution, the outcome is final, and no hearing or appeal will follow. 

b)    If the student does not accept the Administrative Resolution and:

(1)    The Administrative Resolution does not include suspension or dismissal, the student may elect to appeal the Administrative Resolution finding(s) and/or sanction(s) within 10 days of the issuance of the Administrative Resolution, via written communication      to Student Conduct (or designee). The student may appeal on the grounds described in this section. The appeal should identify the reason(s) why the student is challenging the Administrative Resolution under one or more of the following:

(a)    new information not available at the time of the investigation, the absence of which can be shown to have materially affected the outcome; 

(b)    there was procedural error in the process that materially affected the outcome;

(c)    the proposed sanction is disproportionate given the findings of fact.

Appeals will be managed under the process outlined in Section IV.E.

(2)    The Administrative Resolution includes suspension or dismissal, the student may elect to contest Student Conduct’s determination of responsibility by proceeding to a Formal Hearing (see Section IV.D. below). Within 5 days of the issuance of the Administrative Resolution, the student must indicate via written communication to Student Conduct or their designee if they wish to contest Student Conduct’s determination of responsibility.

(3)    The Administrative Resolution includes suspension or dismissal, and the student accepts responsibility for the policy violation, but wishes to appeal the sanction (suspension or dismissal), they may submit a written appeal on only one ground, that the proposed sanction is disproportionate given the findings of fact. Within five (5) days of the issuance of the Administrative Resolution, the student must indicate via written communication to Student Conduct or their designee if they wish to accept responsibility for the policy violation, but appeal the sanction. The student will have an additional five (5) days to submit their written appeal to Student Conduct (or designee), identifying the reason(s) why the student is challenging the proposed sanction. 

Appeals will be managed under the process outlined in Section IV.E.

c)    Following the issuance of the Administrative Resolution, if the student does not respond within the timelines listed above, the outcome is final, and no hearing or appeal will follow. 

D.    Formal Hearing

When the outcome of the Administrative Resolution includes suspension or dismissal, and the student has contested Student Conduct’s determination of responsibility, the case will proceed to a formal hearing. 

1.    Hearing Body Composition and Training
The Hearing Body will be composed of a Hearing Chair and two Hearing Board Members. 

a)    The Hearing Chair will be a staff or faculty member nominated by the Vice Chancellor of the Office of Education and Student Affairs (or designee).

b)    The Hearing Board Members will be two faculty or staff nominated by each of the Deans (or designees) of the Professional Schools and the Graduate Division. 

c)    All Hearing Body members should be unbiased, impartial, and without any conflicts of interest with the parties involved. If a Hearing Board member identifies that they are unable to meet this standard, they are expected to recuse themselves from the hearing. 

d)    The Hearing Body will be trained periodically on the Formal Disciplinary Hearing process.

2.    Hearing Coordinator
The Hearing Coordinator will assist the Hearing Body on administrative and procedural aspects of the hearing. The Hearing Coordinator will not participate in deliberations and will not make recommendations to the Hearing Body regarding what decision the Hearing Body should make. The Hearing Coordinator will be trained periodically on the Formal Disciplinary Hearing process.

3.    Pre-Hearing Process 

a)    Hearing Notice. The Chair of the Hearing Body will send a written notice to the student and Student Conduct, including a brief statement of the factual basis of the charges, the University policies or campus regulations allegedly violated, pre-hearing procedures, and the time and place of the hearing, no less than fifteen (15) days before the hearing. 

b)    Exchange of Information

(1)    No less than ten (10) days before the hearing, the student and Student Conduct shall submit the information they intend to present on each issue to the Hearing Chair, including all documents to be presented, the names of all requested witnesses, and a summary of such witnesses’ expected testimony. 

(2)    The Hearing Chair may exclude witnesses or documentary information that is irrelevant to the matter at hand or redundant in content. If the Chair does so, they will provide a rationale for exclusion at least five (5) days before the hearing. The Hearing Chair may exclude witnesses or documentary information from the hearing that a party fails to include in its submission. 

(3)    No less than five (5) days before the hearing, the Hearing Coordinator will share all relevant documentary information and a list of witnesses that will be considered at the hearing with the student and Student Conduct. 

c)    Procedural Matters. Prior to and/or during the hearing, the Hearing Body may:

(1)    Exclude information and/or witness testimony that is irrelevant in light of the policy violation(s) charged, not in dispute, or unduly repetitive, 

(2)    Decide any procedural issues for the hearing, including but not limited to limits on time for presentation and order of presentation, and/or

(3)    Make any other determinations necessary to ensure an orderly, productive, timely, and fair hearing.

4.    Hearing Process

a)    The student and Student Conduct will each be given an opportunity to present information to the Hearing Body. 

b)    Student Conduct bears the burden of proof for the hearing. 

c)    The student has the right to hear all individuals who present at the hearing. The student and Student Conduct may propose questions to be asked of all individuals who present at the hearing in accordance with the mechanism specified by the Hearing Body.

d)    The Hearing Body will determine the content and order of questioning.  Whenever possible, the Chair of the Hearing Body will ask the questions as they are submitted and will not rephrase or change them.  The Hearing Body may, however, exclude questions that are unduly repetitive, clearly not relevant, or unduly time consuming. 

e)    The Hearing Body may ask questions of all individuals who present at the hearing. 

f)    The hearing will be audio recorded. The failure to record all or part of the hearing will not be grounds for invalidating the Formal Disciplinary Hearing Process.

g)    Formal rules of evidence will not apply. The Hearing Body may consider the form in which information is presented, as well as the credibility of any party or witness at the hearing, in weighing the information and reaching its decision.

5.    Hearing Body Determination 

a)    The Hearing Body will deliberate in private and reach a decision based on a preponderance of the evidence standard. The Hearing Body shall attempt to reach consensus on a decision, but the majority shall make the decision if consensus cannot be reached.

b)    The Hearing Body shall take into account the record developed by the Student Conduct Administrator (or designee) and the information presented at the hearing. The Hearing Body can make its own findings of fact, findings of policy violation(s), and credibility determinations based on all the information before it.  

c)    Notice of Hearing Outcome. Within twenty (20) days of the hearing, the Hearing Body will issue a Notice of Hearing Outcome to the student and Student Conduct based upon the preponderance of evidence, that includes a summary of the relevant facts and a conclusion for each alleged policy violation, sanctions, if applicable, and information about the process to appeal the outcome. 

6.    Opportunity to Appeal 

a)    If the student wishes to challenge the hearing outcome, the student must submit a written appeal to Student Conduct within ten (10) days of the issuance of the Notice of Hearing Outcome. 

b)    The student may appeal on the grounds described in this section. The appeal should identify the reason(s) why the student is challenging the hearing body decision under one or more of the following:

(1)    new information not available at the time of the hearing, the absence of which can be shown to have materially affected the outcome; 

(2)    there was procedural error in the process that materially affected the outcome;

(3)    the proposed sanction is disproportionate given the findings of fact.

7.    Suspension of Sanctions Before Hearing
When a hearing is permitted under the procedures outlined above, the implementation of sanctions will be deferred pending the outcome of the hearing. 

E.    Appeal 

1.    Appeal Body Composition and Training 

a)    For matters involving suspension or dismissal from the university, the Appeal Body will be composed of the Vice Chancellor of Education and Student Affairs (or designee) and two staff or faculty members nominated by the Vice Chancellor of the Office of Education and Student Affairs (or designee).

b)    For matters not involving suspension or dismissal from the university, the Appeal Body will be a single Appeal Administrator - the Vice Chancellor of Education and Student Affairs (or designee).

c)    All Appeal Body members should be unbiased, impartial, and without any conflicts of interest with the parties involved. If an Appeal Body member identifies that they are unable to meet this standard, they are expected to recuse themselves from reviewing the appeal. 

d)    The Appeal Body will be trained periodically on the adjudication and appeal process.

2.    Appeal Process

a)    Within seven (7) days of receiving a copy of the appeal from a student, Student Conduct will share the appeal and related documents with the Appeal Body. 

b)    Student Conduct may submit a written response to the Appeal Body within seven (7) days of receiving a copy of the appeal. 

c)    Absent good cause for an extension, the Appeal Body will issue a written decision, which will include a summary of information considered and the rationale for the decision, to the student within twenty (20) days of receiving the appeal and all related documents. 

d)    Once issued, the decision of the Appeal Body is final.

3.    Decision By Appeal Body

The Appeal Body may: 

a)    Uphold the findings and/or sanctions; 

b)    Overturn the findings and/or sanctions; 

c)    Modify the findings and/or sanctions; or 

d)    In appeals alleging new information or procedural error, send the case back to the Hearing Body or Student Conduct Administrator (or designee). 

4.    Suspension of Sanctions Before Appeal
When an appeal is permitted under the procedures outlined above, the implementation of sanctions will be deferred pending the outcome of the appeal. 

V.  Grounds for Discipline 

Students may be held accountable for committing or attempting to commit (including aiding or abetting in the commission or attempted commission) of the following types of violations. 

102.01. All forms of academic misconduct including but not limited to cheating, fabrication, plagiarism, or facilitating academic dishonesty.

102.02. Other forms of dishonesty including but not limited to fabricating information, furnishing false information, or reporting a false emergency to the University.

102.03. Forgery, alteration, or misuse of any University document, record, key, electronic device, or identification.

102.04. Theft of, conversion of, destruction of, or damage to any property of the University, or any property of others while on University premises, or possession of any property when the student had knowledge or reasonably should have had knowledge that it was stolen.

102.05. Theft or abuse of University computers and other University electronic resources such as computer and electronic communications facilities, systems, and services. Abuses include (but are not limited to) unauthorized entry, use, transfer, or tampering with the communications of others; interference with the work of others and with the operation of computer and electronic communications facilities, systems, and services; or copyright infringement (for example, the illegal file-sharing of copyrighted materials).

Use of University computer and electronic communications facilities, systems, or services that violates other University policies or Implementing Regulations. Please refer to the UC Electronic Communications Policy and Digital Copyright Protection at UC for the University’s position on digital copyright. 

See UCSF Administrative Policy Section 650-18 Authorized and Acceptable Use of Electronic Information Resources.

102.06. Unauthorized entry to, possession of, receipt of, or use of any University services; equipment; resources; or properties, including the University’s name, insignia, or seal.

102.07. Violation of policies, regulations, or rules governing University-owned, -operated, or -leased housing facilities or other housing facilities located on University property.

102.08. Physical abuse including but not limited to physical assault; threats of violence; or other conduct that threatens the health or safety of any person.

Sexual Violence (including Sexual Assault – Penetration, Sexual Assault-Contact and Relationship Violence) is defined by the University of California Policy on Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment. Please refer to PACAOS Grounds for Discipline 102.26.

102.09. Harassment, defined as conduct that is so severe and/or pervasive, and objectively offensive, and that so substantially impairs a person’s access to University programs or activities that the person is effectively denied equal access to the University’s resources and opportunities.

Harassment based on a protected category is defined by the University of California Anti-Discrimination Policy. Pursuant to section 104.90, sanctions may be enhanced for conduct motivated on the basis of the protected categories defined in the University of California Anti-Discrimination Policy. Please refer to 102.27.

Sexual Harassment is defined by the University of California Policy on Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment. Please refer to 102.26.

102.10. Stalking behavior in which a student repeatedly engages in a course of conduct directed at another person and makes a credible threat with the intent to place that person in reasonable fear for his or her safety, or the safety of his or her family; where the threat is reasonably determined by the University to seriously alarm, torment, or terrorize the person; and where the threat is additionally determined by the University to serve no legitimate purpose.

Stalking of a sexual or romantic nature is defined by the University of California Policy on Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment. Please refer to 102.26.

102.11 (deleted on October 9, 2009)

102.12 Participation in hazing or any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, activity, or method committed by a person (whether individually or in concert with other persons) against another person or persons, including current, former, or prospective students, regardless of the willingness of such other person or persons to participate, that is committed in the course of a preinitiation, an initiation into, an affiliation with, or the maintenance of membership in, an official or unofficial student organization or other student group that

i. causes or creates a risk, above the reasonable risk encountered in the course of participation in the institution of higher education or the organization (such as the physical preparation necessary for participation in an athletic team), of physical or psychological injury, including personal degradation or disgrace, and/or

ii. the person knew or should have known was likely to cause serious bodily injury.

102.13. Obstruction or disruption of teaching, research, administration, disciplinary procedures, or other University activities.

102.14. Disorderly or lewd conduct.

102.15. Participation in a disturbance of the peace or unlawful assembly.

102.16. Failure to identify oneself to, or comply with the directions of, a University official or other public official acting in the performance of his or her duties while on University property or at official University functions; or resisting or obstructing such University or other public officials in the performance of or the attempt to perform their duties.

102.17. Unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, use, or sale of, or the attempted manufacture, distribution, dispensing, or sale of controlled substances, identified in federal and state law or regulations.

102.18. Manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, use, or sale of, or the attempted manufacture, distribution, dispensing, or sale of alcohol that is unlawful or otherwise prohibited by, or not in compliance with, University policy or Implementing Regulations. See the UCSF Alcohol Policy.

102.19. Possession, use, storage, or manufacture of explosives, firebombs, or other destructive devices.

102.20. Possession, use, or manufacture of a firearm or other weapon as prohibited by Implementing Regulations.

102.21. Violation of the conditions contained in the terms of a disciplinary action imposed under these Policies or Implementing Regulations.

102.22. Violation of the conditions contained in a written Notice of Emergency Suspension issued pursuant to PACAOS Section 53.00 or violation of orders issued pursuant to PACAOS Section 52.00, during a declared state of emergency.

102.23. Selling, preparing, or distributing for any commercial purpose course lecture notes or video or audio recordings of any course unless authorized by the University in advance and explicitly permitted by the course instructor in writing. The unauthorized sale or commercial distribution of course notes or recordings by a student is a violation of these Policies whether or not it was the student or someone else who prepared the notes or recordings.

Copying for any commercial purpose handouts, readers or other course materials provided by an instructor as part of a University of California course unless authorized by the University in advance and explicitly permitted by the course instructor or the copyright holder in writing (if the instructor is not the copyright holder).

102.24. Conduct, where the actor means to communicate a serious expression of intent to terrorize, or acts in reckless disregard of the risk of terrorizing, one or more University students, faculty, or staff. 'Terrorize' means to cause a reasonable person to fear bodily harm or death, perpetrated by the actor or those acting under his/her control. 'Reckless disregard' means consciously disregarding a substantial risk. This section applies without regard to whether the conduct is motivated by race, ethnicity, personal animosity, or other reasons. This section does not apply to conduct that constitutes the lawful defense of oneself, of another, or of property.

102.25. Making a video recording, audio recording, taking photographs, or streaming audio/video of any person in a location where the person has a reasonable expectation of privacy, without that person's knowledge and express consent.

Looking through a hole or opening, into, or otherwise viewing, by means of any instrumentality, the interior of a private location without the subject's knowledge and express consent.

Making a video recording, audio recording, or streaming audio/video of private, non-public conversations and/or meetings, without the knowledge and express consent of all recorded parties.

These provisions do not extend to public events or discussions, or to lawful official law or policy enforcement activities. These provisions may not be utilized to impinge upon the lawful exercise of constitutionally protected rights of freedom of speech or assembly.

Definitions

"Express consent" is clear, unmistakable and voluntary consent that may be in written, oral or nonverbal form.

"Private locations" are settings where the person reasonably expected privacy. For example, in most cases the following are considered private locations: residential living quarters, bathrooms, locker rooms, and personal offices.

"Private, non-public conversations and/or meetings" include any communication carried on in circumstances that reasonably indicate that any party wants the communication to be confined to the parties, but excludes a communication made in a public gathering, or in any other circumstance in which the parties to the communication may reasonably expect that the communication may be overheard or recorded.

Invasions of Sexual Privacy are defined by the University of California Policy on Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment. Please refer to 102.26.

102.26. Violation of the University of California Policy on Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment. 

102.27. Violation of the University of California Anti-Discrimination Policy. 

102.28. Violation of any other University policies or Implementing Regulations otherwise not covered under these standards of conduct.

VI.  Types of Student Disciplinary Action 

When a student is found in violation of University policies or campus regulations, any of the following types of student disciplinary action may be imposed. Any sanction imposed should be appropriate to the violation, taking into consideration the context and seriousness of the violation.

The following types of student Disciplinary Actions may or may not be used sequentially:

A.    Warning

Written notice or reprimand to the student that a violation of specified University policies or Implementing Regulations has occurred and that continued or repeated violations of University policies or Implementing Regulations may be cause for further disciplinary action, normally in the form of Disciplinary Probation, and/or Loss of Privileges and Exclusion from Activities, Suspension, or Dismissal.

B.    Disciplinary Probation

A status imposed for a specified period of time during which a student must demonstrate conduct that conforms to University standards of conduct. Conditions restricting the student's privileges or eligibility for activities may be imposed. Misconduct during the probationary period or violation of any conditions of the probation may result in further disciplinary action, normally in the form of Suspension or Dismissal

C.    Loss of Privileges and Exclusion from Activities

Exclusion from participation in designated privileges and activities for a specified period of time. Violation of any conditions in the written Notice of Loss of Privileges and Exclusion from Activities, or violation of University policies or Implementing Regulations during the period of the sanction may be cause for further disciplinary action, normally in the form of Probation, Suspension or Dismissal.

D.    Suspension

Termination of student status for a specified period of time with reinstatement thereafter certain, provided that the student has complied with all conditions imposed as part of the suspension and provided that the student is otherwise qualified for reinstatement. Violation of the conditions of Suspension or of University policies or campus regulations during the period of Suspension may be cause for further disciplinary action, normally in the form of Dismissal. 

A student may not transfer or register for courses at another campus or location of the University of California during the period of Suspension. 

E.    Dismissal

Termination of student status for an indefinite period. Readmission to the University shall require the specific approval of the Chancellor of the campus to which a dismissed student has applied. Readmission after dismissal may be granted only under exceptional circumstances.

F.    Exclusion from Areas of the Campus or from Official University Functions

Exclusion of a student as part of a disciplinary sanction from specified areas of the campus or other University-owned, -operated, or -leased facilities, or other facilities located on University property, or from official University functions, when there is reasonable cause for the University to believe that the student's presence there will lead to physical abuse, threats of violence, or conduct that threatens the health or safety of any person on University property or at official University functions, or other disruptive activity incompatible with the orderly operation of the campus

G.    Restitution

A requirement for restitution in the form of reimbursement may be imposed for expenses incurred by the University or other parties resulting from a violation of these policies. Such reimbursement may take the form of monetary payment or appropriate service to repair or otherwise compensate for damages. Restitution may be imposed on any student who alone, or through group or concerted activities, participates in causing the damages or costs.

H.    Revocation of Awarding of Degree

Subject to the concurrence of the Academic Senate, revocation of a degree obtained by fraud. Such revocation is subject to review on appeal by the Chancellor.

I.    Other Disciplinary Actions

Other disciplinary actions, such as monetary fines, community service, or holds on requests for transcripts, diplomas, or other student records to be sent to third parties, as set forth in campus regulations.

J.    Other University Actions

Other University actions include, but are not limited to, alternative resolution, advisory notices, supplemental education or educational conversations.

K.    Housing Probation

A status imposed for a specified period during which a student’s continued residency in university housing is contingent upon compliance with university policies and housing regulations. During housing probation, any further violation of university or housing policies may result in more serious disciplinary action, including removal from university housing. (See also Section VII.C.3)

L.    Student Organization Sanctions

In addition to the disciplinary actions listed above, violations by the Student Government or Student Registered Campus Organizations may also result in revocation of the organization’s recognition or revocation of recognition of the organization’s officers. 

A Student Registered Campus Organization may be sanctioned where a member or members of the organization violated University policy with the knowledge and consent of the organization’s officers or acted in concert with other members of the organization. 

VII.  Sanctioning Framework

To promote accountability, safety, and educational development within the University of California community, this framework provides a consistent yet flexible structure for assigning sanctions and other university actions in response to violations of PACAOS 100.00 Policy of Student Conduct and Discipline

A.    Principles

1.    Educational Purpose: When appropriate, sanction(s) and/or other university action(s) serve an educational purpose—supporting accountability, student growth and learning. They are intended to reduce the likelihood of recurrence of behavior that violates University policy. The conduct process also seeks opportunities to foster reflection and development whenever possible, while reinforcing the importance of community standards and the shared responsibility of maintaining a respectful and safe campus environment.

2.    Consistency with Individualization: Sanctions and other university actions are guided by consistent standards and institutional values, while also considering the unique circumstances of each case. The decision-maker will consider a range of factors to ensure that outcomes are both fair and appropriate to each situation. Depending on the circumstances, multiple sanctions, varying in type and degree, may be applied.

3.    Proportional and Contextual Response: The student conduct process is designed to assess each case individually, with outcomes based on the nature, severity, and context of the behavior. A single severe incident may, in some circumstances, result in a more significant sanction; in others, misconduct may be addressed through educational and/or restorative — but still appropriate — responses.

B.    Types of Student Conduct Sanctions and Actions

Consistent with the principles above, campuses have a range of options (as defined in PACAOS 100.00, Section 105.00 Types of Student Conduct Sanctions and Actions) available to respond to possible violation(s) of policy. The sanctions and actions fall under three categories, grouped into tiers of increasing severity.

In most circumstances, sanctions are accompanied by Other University Actions (e.g., alternative resolution, advisory notices, supplemental education, or educational conversations). As such, education is included in each tier.

1.    Tier 1: Other University Actions, including but not limited to:     

a)    Alternative Resolution

b)    Advisory Notice

c)    Educational conversation

2.    Tier 2: Sanctions for more complex or severe violations that may not warrant separation from the institution, including but not limited to:     

a)    Warning 

b)    Disciplinary Probation, with or without conditions 

c)    Loss of Privileges/Exclusion from Activities 

d)    Restitution

e)    Other University Actions (supplemental with sanctions)

3.    Tier 3: Sanctions for severe or repeated violations that may warrant separation from the institution, including but not limited to:      

a)    Suspension

b)    Dismissal 

c)    Exclusion from areas of campus or University Functions 

d)    Other University Actions (supplemental with sanctions)

C.    Factors Considered in Determining Student Conduct Sanctions and Actions

1.    Each violation includes a recommended range of sanctions and/or actions and assumes a student is being charged with a single policy violation and has no prior history of violating University policy. Sanctions may fall outside these ranges in cases involving multiple policy violations and/or a prior history of policy violations. Campus officials should determine the appropriate sanction or action based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, the following: 

a)    Whether the act was deliberate/intentional

b)    Severity of the policy violation, including any result in personal injury or property damage 

c)    Student’s previous conduct record 

d)    Nature and context of the policy violation 

e)    Impact on or harm to other members of the University community or the community as a whole

f)    Degree to which the student’s behavior disrupted or obstructed University activities 

g)    Abuse of authority

h)    Response following violation: voluntarily acknowledged wrongdoing at early stage of the process; engaging in actions that seek to disrupt the Student Conduct process (e.g., harassing witnesses, expressing hostility towards conduct staff and/or reporting persons), or failing to engage in a forthright and transparent manner

i)    Number and type of violations associated with the incident.

2.    The loss of University employment shall not be a form of discipline under these Policies. However, when student status is a condition of employment, the loss of student status will result in termination of the student's employment. This section is not intended to preclude the disclosure to other appropriate University officials of information relating to any student’s judicial records if that information may be reasonably construed to have bearing on the student’s suitability for a specific employment situation. This section is also not intended to preclude an employer from terminating a student’s employment outside the disciplinary process.

3.    In imposing discipline other than Suspension or Dismissal, access to housing and health services shall not be restricted unless the act that occasioned the discipline is appropriately related to the restriction.

D.    Range of Sanctions and Actions for Each Type of Violation

The range of sanctions and/or actions for each type of violation are summarized in Table A. Consistent with the factors and tiers described above, the table is intended to serve as a guiding framework for Student Conduct Administrators when considering sanctions and/or actions in response to specific types of policy violations. It provides a range of possible outcomes, listed in increasing severity, that may be appropriate depending on the circumstances of each case. Table A is not prescriptive and does not represent a mandatory and/or exhaustive list of sanctions and/or actions. Rather, it is a starting point to support consistency and informed decision-making in the student conduct process.

Sanctioning decisions should always reflect the totality of the circumstances. Where appropriate, multiple sanctions and/or actions may be assigned, and more significant sanctions and/or actions may be warranted in cases involving repeat violations, aggravating factors, or broader community impact.

This tool is meant to assist Student Conduct Administrators in exercising their professional judgment, in alignment with institutional values and the goals of education, accountability, and harm reduction.

E.    Table A

Guiding Framework for Sanctions and Actions by Tier and Type of Violation

VIII.  Posting Suspension or Dismissal on Academic Transcripts

When, as a result of violations of the Policy on Student Conduct and Discipline, a student is suspended or dismissed, a notation that the discipline was imposed must be posted on the academic transcript for the duration of the suspension or dismissal. 

A notation of suspension will be removed from a student’s transcript at the conclusion of the suspension. A notation of dismissal will not be removed from a student’s transcript.

IX.  Interim Action

Interim Action may include exclusion from classes, or from other specified activities or areas of the campus, as set forth in the Notice of Interim Actions, before final determination of an alleged violation. A student shall be restricted only to the minimum extent necessary when there is reasonable cause to believe that the student's participation in University activities or presence at specified areas of the campus will lead to physical abuse, threats of violence, or conduct that threatens the health or safety of any person on University property or at official University functions, or other disruptive activity incompatible with the orderly operation of the campus. 

A.    A student placed on Interim Action shall be given a prompt Notice of Interim Action that will contain information regarding the charges, the duration of the Interim Action, and information on next steps, including that they will have the opportunity for a prompt hearing should the Chancellor (or designee) affirm the Interim Action.

B.    All written communications with the student, including responses and submissions outlined in these procedures, will be via UCSF email unless other arrangements have been made for the student with the prior written approval of the Student Conduct Administrator (or designee).

C.    The Chancellor (or designee) will immediately receive notification of the Interim Action, which shall include the student's name, the reasons for the Interim Action, and the student's contact information. 

D.    Within twenty-four hours of the imposition of the Interim Action, the Chancellor (or designee) shall affirm or overrule the Interim Action.

E.    Chancellor Overrules the Interim Action: If the Chancellor (or designee) does not affirm the Interim Action by the end of the twenty-four hours, it shall be deemed void and the Chancellor (or designee) shall immediately inform the student that the Interim Action is void and is no longer in effect. 

F.    Chancellor Affirms the Interim Action: If the Chancellor (or designee) affirms the Interim Action by the end of the twenty-four hours, the Chancellor (or designee) shall immediately inform the student that the Interim Action is upheld and that the student may request, in writing, a meeting with the Vice Chancellor of the Office of Education and Student Affairs (or designee) to challenge the basis of the Interim Action. 

G.    The student must submit a written request for a meeting with the Vice Chancellor of the Office of Education and Student Affairs (or designee) to challenge the Interim Action within ten (10) days from when the student was first notified of the Interim Action. Upon receipt of the request, the Vice Chancellor of the Office of Education and Student Affairs (or designee) will notify the student of the time, place, and date of the meeting to challenge the basis of the Interim Action. The Vice Chancellor of the Office of Education and Student Affairs (or designee) shall convene this meeting within five (5) days from the date of receipt of the request. During this meeting, the student may present relevant information such as, but not limited to supporting documents that may be exculpatory or corroborate their account of the incident(s), verified information that may mitigate the factors weighed for the student’s exclusion and witness statements that support the challenge to the basis of the Interim Action.

H.    The Vice Chancellor of the Office of Education and Student Affairs (or designee) will issue a written determination that may cancel, modify or uphold the Interim Action within five (5) days of the meeting. 

I.    Should the Interim Action be voided by the Chancellor or modified or cancelled by the Vice Chancellor of Office of Education and Student Affairs (or designee) after meeting with the student, such actions shall have no bearing on the University's disciplinary proceedings arising from the conduct which gave rise to the Interim Action. Any disciplinary proceedings shall be conducted under the normal procedures provided in these policies. If during the formal proceedings, more information becomes available, interim actions may still be imposed.

J.    If a student is found to have been unjustifiably placed on Interim Action, the University is committed to a policy whereby reasonable efforts are taken to assist an individual who has been disadvantaged with respect to employment or academic status.

X.  Student Records

A.    Disciplinary Record 

1.    Information Retained in Disciplinary Record
The disciplinary record must be retained by the Student Conduct Administrator (or designee) and will consist of the:

a)    All written notices provided to the student during the process

b)    Documentary information that was relied upon by the Student Conduct Administrator (or designee), Hearing Body (if applicable), and Appeal Body (if applicable); and

c)    Audio recording from the formal disciplinary hearing (if applicable). 

2.    Record Retention 

a)    The disciplinary record of a student found responsible for any violation of non-academic/non-professionalism policy violations (Grounds for Discipline 102.02 to 102.25, and 102.28), will normally be retained by the Student Conduct Administrator (or designee) for five (5) years after the end of the academic year in which the case is closed or as otherwise required by law (whichever is longer). 

b)    The disciplinary record of a student when the sanction is dismissal or revocation of degree will normally be retained for 50 years after the end of the academic year in which the student no longer attends the University. 

c)    The disciplinary record of a student found not responsible for all non-academic/non-professionalism policy violations (Grounds for Discipline 102.02 to 102.25, and 102.28), will be normally retained for five (5) years after the end of the academic year in which the case is closed or as otherwise required by law (whichever is longer).  However, such records will not be considered while determining sanctions in a subsequent case. 

d)    Records of Alternative Resolutions will be maintained as a non-disciplinary record, will normally be retained by the Student Conduct Administrator (or designee) for five (5) years after the end of the academic year in which the case is closed or as otherwise required by law (whichever is longer).

e)    Records which are subject to maintenance under the Campus Security Act (also known as the Jeanne Clery Act) will be retained for seven (7) years after the end of the academic year in which the case is closed or as otherwise required by law (whichever is longer).  

f)    The student’s School or the Graduate Division may have different requirements and policies regarding records retention that may result in different records retention schedule. 

3.    Inspection of Record

a)    The disciplinary record can be made available to the student for inspection upon request pursuant PACAOS Section 130.40. It may be redacted as necessary to protect student privacy rights. 

b)    For inspection of Formal Disciplinary Hearing audio, the student may request to schedule a time to listen to the recording. The recording may be listened to in a location specified by the Student Conduct Administrator (or designee) in the presence of a designated staff member.

B.    Record and Eligibility for Degree Conferral Holds

1.    Placement of Holds. While a student conduct case is pending or prior to a student’s satisfying the terms of assigned sanctions, the University may place holds that would prevent a student from enrolling in courses or ordering a transcript or inhibit a student’s eligibility for degree conferral. Transcript holds may be applied to prevent a student from transferring or as a disciplinary action. The student will be notified by Student Conduct if a hold is placed. 

2.    Removal of Holds. Holds will be removed when the conduct process has concluded and/or the terms of the assigned sanctions have been met. If a student believes a hold has been improperly placed or has not been properly removed, they may contact Student Conduct to request the removal of the hold. Student Conduct will review the request and determine if the hold should be removed.