What is the Student Code of Conduct and where can I find it?
The Student Code of Conduct provides the standards of conduct that are expected of students (both undergraduate and graduate) that are enrolled at Florida Gulf Coast University. It also outlines the administrative due process and disciplinary penalties that may be imposed upon violations of the Student Code of Conduct. You can find this document on the Judicial Affairs website and in the Student Guidebook at: http://studentservices.fgcu.edu/JudicialAffairs/

If I am being referred to Judicial Affairs, what will happen?
You will receive a letter asking you to make an appointment to meet with a hearing officer. The letter will also list the charges against you. It is important to make an appointment and keep it. Ignoring the situation will not make it go away. If you do not respond, further charges could be added and holds will be placed on your record. This decision could affect your status as a student. The initial meeting will be informational and will describe the charges against you and will include all documentation from the incident. At this point, you will be able to choose whether or not you would like to have the case heard by a judicial administrator or by the Student Conduct Committee, which is made up by faculty, staff, and students. Either way, you will be found “responsible” or “not responsible” for the charge(s). If found “responsible”, appropriate sanctions will be assigned, which can range from a reprimand to expulsion from the University.

Do I have to come alone?
No. You may bring an advisor of your choice.

What if I was not aware of a rule and didn’t know I was breaking it?
Lack of knowledge of a rule is not an excuse for misconduct. Every student is responsible for knowing the rules and regulations of the University. It is important for you to read the Student Code of Conduct and Housing Policy and Procedure Manual, if you live on campus. If you are unsure about any of the policies, be sure to ask for clarification.

Can’t I just lie about the situation and get away with it?
Maybe, but it is not a good idea. If it should be found that you falsified information, there may be additional disciplinary charges or consequences.

What is a sanction?
A sanction is a set of consequences that a student receives upon being found responsible of a violation of the Student Code of Conduct. Sanctions can include, but are not limited to, the following: written reprimands, educational activities, restitution, counseling assessments, community service, trespass from property, temporary or permanent removal from the residence halls, suspension from the University, and expulsion from the University.