1. What happens if I admit to a violation of the Code of Academic Integrity?
In most cases you would accept the proposed sanction and the case would be closed. However sometimes a hearing is required to resolve the matter, even if you admit to a violation. This may happen when you have had a previous violation or the proposed sanction goes beyond "failure of the course."

2. When is a notation concerning academic dishonesty made to my GW transcript?
A notation reading "Academic Dishonesty" is made to your GW transcript when the sanction rises to the level of "failure of the course." Normally such a sanction lasts for at least two years before you may petition to have it removed.

3. Can notations ever be removed from my GW transcript?
Yes, you may petition the Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs for removal of the notation after the specified amount of time.

4. Can a professor sanction me for academic dishonesty without making a formal charge?
No, this would not be appropriate and would circumvent the procedures outlined in the Code of Academic Integrity. Along with responsibilities, students also have certain rights of protection.

5. As a student, how can I join the Academic Integrity Council?
You may make application at any time and then submit to the Office of Academic Integrity.

6. Is it possible to be suspended or expelled for a single violation?
It is possible, but not likely. Any sanction beyond "failure of the course" can only be given by an Academic Integrity hearing panel. It is possible in particularly egregious cases.

7. Does the Code of Academic Integrity cover all GW students?
The Code of Academic Integrity covers all GW students accept those in the Law School or M.D. program.

8. Can a faculty member "jump" to a failure of the course sanction or beyond on my first violation?
Yes they can, if they perceive the violation to be particularly egregious or it conforms to their course policy.

9. If charged, is there any scenario where I am required to have a hearing?
Yes, if you have a previous record or the proposed sanction goes beyond "failure of the course."

10. Do I have to attend my hearing?
No, your attendance is not required, but it is generally in your interest to attend to make your viewpoint known to the panel.

11. Can I have a hearing if I admit to a violation of the Code?
Yes you may. This happens often when you may agree to a violation, but you feel the sanction is too severe. In these cases, the hearing revolves around the appropriateness of the sanction.

12. Is lying a violation of the Code of Academic Integrity?
Yes, it is generally classified as falsification or" knowingly making a false statement."

13. Can a student charge a fellow student with a violation?
Yes this is possible or a student can report an alleged violation to his/her professor and allow him to bring the charge if warranted.

14. Who constitutes a hearing panel?
Panels are composed of five individuals selected from the Academic Integrity Council. A complete panel consists of three student members (one of which is always the Presiding Officer without a vote) and two faculty members. Ultimately two students and two faculty members vote and it takes at least a 3/4 vote to find a student "in violation" of the Code.

15. What is the standard of proof when a student is charged with academic dishonesty?
Faculty or administrators charging a student have the burden of proof. Panels must feel a "preponderance of evidence" points to a violation of the Code

16. Does a record of violation last forever?
Yes, at this time a record of each violation is kept in the Academic Integrity Office. Information related to this record is not released to third parties without the written permission of the student.