Students and instructors are welcome to meet with the Academic Ombud to discuss the information needed and how best to present their case.
Appeal an academic offense with a minor penalty
A. Process of Appeal
If a student decides to appeal an academic offense for which they have received a penalty of a zero in the assignment or a final grade of E/F in the course, the student will request a meeting with the Academic Ombud to review the evidence and explanation provided by the instructor or university official. The student may then provide a letter describing their perspective of the issue and include documentation that supports their perspective. The Academic Ombud will forward the case to the Hearing Panel for the appeal. The Hearing Panel will hear the case and invite the student and the instructor (or appropriate University official) to attend.
The Hearing Panel's decision is final.
B. Standard of Review
In reviewing the academic offense, findings of fact are reviewed under the clearly erroneous standard and conclusions of law are reviewed de novo (reviewing without any deference to the instructor’s decision).
C. Decision Concerning Responsibility
With respect to the issue of responsibility, the Hearing Panel may affirm, reverse, or reverse and remand for further proceedings.
D. Decision Concerning Sanction
As to the sanction, the respective appeals panel may affirm or impose a lesser sanction. The Hearing Panel may not increase the sanction.