Policy 1.6 Student Rights & Responsibilities Policy
The official version of this procedure is housed with the University Secretariat. In the event of a discrepancy, the official version will prevail. Click here for a printable version of this policy.
Approving Authority: Board of Governors
Responsible Office: Student Affairs, University Secretariat
Responsible Officer: Vice-Provost (Student Affairs), University Secretary
Original Approval Date: February 23, 1978
Effective Date: January 22, 2020
Date of Most Recent Review: June 18, 2025
Previous Reviews: June 9, 2017
1. Preamble
The University of Guelph is a research-intensive, learner-centred university committed to the education and well-being of the whole person. Its core value is the pursuit of truth. The University recognizes that an inclusive Campus and a culture of inclusion are institutional and social imperatives and holds diversity and reconciliation to be foundational principles.
A shared commitment to integrity on the part of Students, faculty and staff is critical to enabling the University to fulfill its mission.
2. Purpose
This policy establishes a shared understanding of rights and responsibilities regarding Student conduct and integrity both on-Campus and when students represent the University in the broader community.
3. Shared Community Obligations
Upon joining the University, Students commit to upholding the fundamental rights and responsibilities provided in this and other applicable policies and commit to maintaining a safe, welcoming, equitable and supportive learning community.
Students have an obligation to make decisions about and take responsibility for their own behaviour in a way that supports and furthers mutual respect, civil discourse, inclusion and equity.
The University has an obligation to address situations where Students fail to uphold their responsibilities, to reduce harm, and to facilitate the restoration of relationships within the community.
The University commits to providing opportunities for students to learn and grow as individuals, to understand and reflect on the rights and responsibilities outlined in this policy, and to repair relationships with the community where harm has occurred.
Upholding the rights and responsibilities provided in this policy requires the active participation of all members of our community. Accordingly, the University is committed to fostering an environment in which individuals feel safe and supported when reporting behaviour that is inconsistent with our shared understanding of rights and responsibilities.
4. Definitions
4.1. “Campus” means the real property which comprises either the University’s Guelph campus or Ridgetown Campus, in addition to such other real property and physical or other facilities owned, leased, or otherwise occupied or used by the University to facilitate its teaching, research and other core activities.
4.2. “Complainant” means an individual identifying an alleged breach of this Policy for the University’s response, or an individual who has assumed that role pursuant to this Policy.
4.3. “Complaint” means an allegation that a Student’s conduct may constitute a breach of this Policy.
4.4. “Non-Academic Conduct” refers generally, but is not limited, to Student behaviour or activities that are not primarily related to academic pursuits, education, or learning.
4.5. “Respondent” means an individual who is alleged to have breached this Policy.
4.6. “Resolution Process” means any one of the resolution processes outlined in section 11 of this policy.
4.7. “Student” has the meaning provided in section 7.1 of this policy.
4.8. “University” means the University of Guelph.
5. Rights
5.1. Legal Rights: Students are entitled to the rights and freedoms established in federal, provincial and municipal law.
5.2. Freedom of Expression: Students have the right to express themselves freely and engage in open dialogue with other Students, faculty, and staff. This right must be exercised in keeping with the balance struck in the University’s Policy Statement on Freedom of Expression.
5.3. Privacy & Transparency: Students have a right to privacy in their personal lives and to have the privacy of their University records protected. These rights are always balanced against the need to protect the broader community and the right of individuals and communities to understand how decisions that impact them have been made and, where they have been subjected to harm, to understand how that harm has been redressed.
5.4. Equitable treatment: Students have the right to be treated equitably and fairly, regardless of their race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or other personal characteristics.
5.5. Access: Students have the right to access those University facilities and services that are necessary to enable them to effectively function as a Student.
5.6. Safety: Students have the right to a safe and welcoming learning environment, free from harassment and discrimination.
5.7. Support: Students affected by non-academic misconduct and Student respondents have a right to the support and assistance they need. The University will work with Students in determining their support needs and assist them in accessing appropriate supports during a Resolution Process. Students affected by misconduct do not need to participate in a Resolution Process to access support.
5.8. Procedural Fairness: Students have the right to procedural fairness in any Resolution Process in which they are a Respondent, including:
5.8.1. the right to understand the allegations against them,
5.8.2. the opportunity to review all evidence,
5.8.3. the option of resolving any allegation through an impartial hearing,
5.8.4. the opportunity to present evidence and witnesses,
5.8.5. the option to have a representative and/or support person of their choice present at any stage of the process,
5.8.6. the right to reasonable accommodation within any Resolution Process,
5.8.7. the right to have matters that affect their interests decided by persons free from bias and conflicts of interest, and
5.8.8. the right to be provided with clear reasons for any decisions made.
5.9. Freedom from Reprisal: Students have the right to feel safe and supported when reporting behaviour that is inconsistent with University policies. It is contrary to this Policy for to retaliate, engage in reprisals or threaten to retaliate against a Complainant for making a good faith report under this Policy. Anyone found to have engaged in such conduct may be subject to discipline in accordance with the relevant University policies or procedures.
6. Responsibilities
6.1. Personal Responsibility: Students are responsible for their personal conduct, growth and academic success. Inherent in this responsibility is an obligation for Students to recognize the impact of their actions on others and to take the necessary steps to address any harm caused by their actions.
6.2. Civil Discourse: Students are responsible for behaving in a civil manner towards other Students, faculty, and staff that is appropriate to the context, and for refraining from disruptive or disrespectful behavior.
6.3. Compliance with University Policies and Rule of Law: Students are responsible for abiding by all Federal, Provincial and Municipal laws and University policies, including this policy, and for being familiar with relevant policies and legal obligations as they apply to all Students as well as to their specific role(s) within the University.
6.4. Safety: Students are responsible for maintaining a safe and secure learning environment, by following safety protocols and reporting any safety concerns to appropriate University officials.
6.5. Respect for Others: Students are responsible for supporting an environment free from discrimination, harassment, intimidation, assault, sexual violence, and violence, and for treating others in a way that does not harm, intimidate or threaten them physically or emotionally.
6.6. Respect for Authority: Students are responsible for respecting the authority of University officials acting rightfully in the course of their duties and for abiding by any direction or outcome given by a competent authority.
6.7. Guests: Students are responsible for ensuring that their guests are aware of the shared expectations of the University of Guelph community, for taking action to address guest behaviour that does not live up to these shared expectations either personally or by reporting it to a competent authority, and for co-operating fully with the University in redressing any issues with their guests.
7. Jurisdiction
7.1. This policy applies to “Students” who are defined as any person enrolled in any program at the University of Guelph, including diploma, undergraduate or graduate programs, any person otherwise enrolled or taking credit or non- credit courses offered by the University of Guelph, or any visiting Student granted official status by the University including, but not limited to, Visiting International Research Students.
7.2. Where an individual was a Student at the time an alleged breach of this policy occurred, the University will, normally, continue to pursue the breach through to a final resolution regardless of whether the individual remains enrolled as a Student through the duration of the Resolution Process. An individual who elects to deregister, graduates or otherwise ceases to be a Student during a Resolution Process does not lose any procedural fairness rights as a result of this decision or occurrence. An outcome of a Resolution Process that cannot be implemented immediately, as a result of deregistration, graduation, or any other reason, will be suspended until such a time as the individual elects to reenroll as a Student.
7.3. This Policy applies to all Student Non-Academic Conduct on Campus. This Policy also applies to all Student Non-Academic Conduct off Campus where a Student is engaged in a University program or attending a University-affiliated event.
7.4. Allegations regarding other off-Campus conduct not contemplated above, including online conduct, may be brought forward under this Policy:
7.4.1. where a Student poses an imminent or ongoing threat to community or workplace safety
7.4.2. where the University has reasonable grounds to be concerned about a risk of future violence or disruption at the University
7.4.3. where a Student’s conduct has disrupted or interfered with another person’s reasonable participation in University programs or activities
7.4.4. as provided under the Community Standards Protocol.
7.5. This Policy does not apply to Students registered at the University of Guelph- Humber as it relates to Non-Academic Conduct on the Humber campus, Guelph-Humber campus or off those campuses. Where a Student registered at the University of Guelph-Humber is alleged to have engaged in misconduct on the University’s Guelph Campus or the Ridgetown Campus, the Provost will determine which policy applies after consulting the Judicial Officer.
7.6. Alleged breaches of this Policy which arise within University residences may, at the discretion of Student Housing Services, proceed under the Residence Community Living Standards.
7.7. Alleged breaches of this Policy which arise at the Ridgetown Campus may, at the discretion of the Director, Ridgetown Campus, proceed under processes and procedures specific to that campus.
7.8. Alleged breaches of this Policy by Students who are identified, or who become identified during any process under this Policy, as Students-At-Risk by the Student At-Risk Team (“SART”) may at the discretion of SART, proceed under the Protocol for Responding to Students At-Risk.
7.9. Alleged breaches of this Policy by Student Athletes may, at the discretion of the Director, Athletics, proceed under the Student-Athlete Code of Conduct.
7.10. Alleged incidents of sexual violence, as defined in the Sexual Violence Policy, will proceed under the Sexual Violence Policy and the Sexual Violence Policy – Procedures Document for Students.
7.11. Alleged breaches of this Policy which arise within an academic environment, such as a classroom or lab, are within the scope of this policy, provided that the conduct is non-academic in nature.
7.11.1. Nothing in this policy shall be interpreted to restrict an instructor's ability to manage their academic environment.
7.11.2. If an instructor believes a breach of this policy has occurred or has ongoing concerns within an academic environment, they shall report the alleged breach or concern to the Office of Student Accountability or the Campus Safety Office.
7.12. Where elements of both academic and Non-Academic Conduct are present in a single breach, the Provost may, after consulting the Vice-Provost (Student Affairs) and the Judicial Officer, empower a Dean or Associate Dean to act as a Case Manager pursuant to this policy to enable the matter to be expeditiously resolved.
7.13. Alleged breaches of this Policy which arise when a Student was acting primarily in their capacity as an employee of the University will proceed under the relevant Human Resources policy or employee agreement, unless otherwise determined by the Chief Human Resources Officer.
8. Concurrent Jurisdiction & Prejudice to Other Proceedings
8.1. Normally, the University will not pursue an alleged breach of the Policy concurrently through more than one University policy or external process.
However, the University maintains the right to pursue an alleged breach of this Policy concurrently or consecutively through more than one University policy or external process at its sole discretion.
8.2. The Campus Safety Office has authority and discretion to determine whether to pursue an alleged breach of the Policy through this Policy, an external process and/or through another applicable University policy.
8.3. In cases where concerns related to concurrent University Policy jurisdiction cannot be resolved, the Provost has authority to determine which University policy or policies Student Non-Academic Conduct breaches will be pursued under, after consulting the Judicial Officer. The Provost’s decision is final and not subject to appeal.
8.4. In cases where proceeding with a Resolution Process under this Policy may prejudice another internal or external process the Provost, after consulting with the Judicial Officer, may suspend the Resolution Process for a fixed period or indefinitely. The Provost’s decision is final and not subject to appeal.
8.4.1. Nothing in this subsection shall be interpreted to limit the University’s ability to impose Interim Measures under Section 12 of this policy.
9. Duty to Report
9.1. Where a Non-Academic Conduct concern involving a Student is reported through a process other than a process administered by the Student Accountability Office or the Campus Safety Office, the administrator of the other University process shall inform the Student Accountability Office and the Campus Safety Office of the concern at the first reasonable opportunity if:
9.1.1. The concern impacts community or workplace safety,
9.1.2. the concern disrupted or interfered with another person’s reasonable participation in University programs or activities, or
9.1.3. the concern has the potential to impact a Student’s status or academic standing at the University.
9.2. Where the Student Accountability Office receives regular reporting about or has access to files relating to an outside process, the duty to report shall be deemed to have been met.
10. Breaches & Outcomes
10.1. Students are responsible for upholding the Rights and Responsibilities enumerated in this Policy including, but not limited to, abiding by all Federal, Provincial and Municipal laws and University policies.
10.2. A non-exhaustive list of Breaches and Outcomes under this policy is provided in the Guidelines for Common Non-Academic Misconduct Breaches and Outcomes.
11. Resolution Processes
11.1. Roles & Responsibilities
11.1.1. Case Managers (Guelph Campus)
Those serving in a case management capacity (for the purposes of this policy “Case Managers”) are appointed by the Vice-Provost (Student Affairs) by written notice to the Judicial Officer and are responsible for:
11.1.1.1. Intake and preliminary assessment of Complaints falling under this Policy.
11.1.1.2. Investigating Complaints, making findings of responsibility and assigning outcomes, when it falls within their authority to do so.
11.1.1.3. Referring Complaints for adjudication when making a finding of responsibility and/or assigning an outcome does not fall within a Case Manager’s authority.
11.1.1.4. Referring Complaints that do not fall under this policy to the appropriate intake office.
11.1.2. Judicial Officer
The Judicial Officer is appointed by the University Secretary and is responsible for:
11.1.2.1. Serving as the University’s lead student conduct policy advisor and providing impartial advice on the Policy and Related Policies, Procedures & Documents, including to the Student Accountability Office.
11.1.2.2. Ensuring consistency and interoperability between student conduct policies.
11.1.2.3. Supporting and advising the University Hearing Board.
11.1.3. Vice-Provost (Student Affairs)
The Vice-Provost (Student Affairs) is responsible for:
11.1.3.1. Making findings of responsibility and assigning outcomes, when it falls within their authority to do so.
11.1.3.2. Operational oversight of the Policy and Resolution Processes.
11.1.3.3. Supporting and advising the Student Rights & Responsibilities Committee.
11.2. Intake
11.2.1. From the University Community
11.2.1.1. Any student, staff or faculty member may make a Complaint that a Student has allegedly breached this Policy to the Student Accountability Office. Prior to making a Complaint, a student, staff or faculty member may seek guidance from the Student Accountability Office on the application of the Policy and the appropriate process for resolving a Complaint.
11.2.1.2. Upon receiving a Complaint from the University Community, the Student Accountability Office will:
- assign a Case Manager to conduct a preliminary assessment of the Complaint and determine whether the University will proceed with the Complaint,
- or refer the Complaint to the Campus Safety Office,
- or refer the Complaint for consideration under another University policy.
11.2.1.3. In determining whether the University will proceed with a Complaint under this policy the Case Manager will consider:
- whether the Complaint is falls under the scope and jurisdiction of this Policy and an appropriate remedy is available,
- the need to prevent the Policy from being used for malicious or unfair purposes, and
- the need to ensure the efficient allocation of University resources.
11.2.1.4. Where a Case Manager decides not to proceed with a Complaint, they will seek the concurrence of the Vice-Provost (Student Affairs). The decision will then be communicated to all parties in writing with reasons. The decision not to proceed with a Complaint is final and not subject to appeal.
Where the University decides not to proceed with a Complaint, it will make a good faith effort to aid the complainant in connecting with appropriate University resources where warranted.
11.2.1.5. Where a Case Manager decides to proceed with a Complaint, they will begin an Investigation or proceed to a Resolution Process.
11.2.2. From the Campus Safety Office
11.2.2.1. Upon receiving a Complaint from the Campus Safety Office, the Student Accountability Office will assign a Case Manager who will either conduct an Investigation or proceed to a Resolution Process.
11.2.2.2. Where there is a dispute between the Student Accountability Office and the Campus Safety Office about whether a Complaint should proceed under this policy, the Vice-Provost (Student Affairs) shall recommend a course of action to the Provost & Vice-President (Academic) who shall decide the matter.
11.3. Notification of Respondent
11.3.1. Respondents will be issued a written notification through their University e-mail account about a Complaint made under this Policy at the beginning of the Investigation or, if there is no Investigation, at the beginning of the Resolution Process. The Respondent will be informed:
11.3.1.1. That an Investigation and/or Resolution Process has commenced,
11.3.1.2. Of the nature of the Complaint against them,
11.3.1.3. Of the policy and processes under which the Complaint will be resolved,,
11.3.1.4. That they are requested to attend a meeting with a Case Manager to which they may bring a representative or support person of their choosing. However, the University reserves the right to impose reasonable limits on the number of representatives and/or support persons in attendance at its sole discretion,,
11.3.1.5. Of the parties attending the meeting on behalf of the University,,
11.3.1.6. Of the time and place of the meeting, and,
11.3.1.7. That the Investigation and/or Resolution Process will proceed in their absence if they fail to respond to the meeting request within three (3) working days.,
11.3.2. If a Respondent fails to respond to a meeting request within three (3) working days, the University will make a good faith effort to contact the Respondent by telephone. Notwithstanding this requirement, an Investigation and/or Resolution Process may proceed if the Respondent fails to respond to the e-mailed meeting request within three (3) working days.
11.3.3. Any additional Respondents identified during the course of an Investigation or Resolution Process must be issued a written notification pursuant to this section as soon as reasonably possible.
11.4. Investigation
11.4.1. Investigations conducted by a Case Manager under this Policy will follow the principles of procedural fairness. In keeping with section 5.8 of the Policy, Respondents have the right to
- know the case against them,
- produce any relevant documentation, evidence, or other information,
- identify witnesses to the Case Manager in response to any Complaints,
- respond to the case against them.
11.4.2. The Case Manager will impartially collect and/or request evidence and interview witnesses in relation to a Complaint.
11.4.3. Students, staff and faculty who may have information relevant to a Complaint are expected to meet with a Case Manager if requested to do so and may be accompanied by a representative or support person of their choosing. Any person who attends such a meeting is required to maintain the confidentiality of any information shared during the meeting in order to protect the integrity of the process.
The University reserves the right to impose reasonable limits on the number of representatives and/or support persons in attendance at its sole discretion.
11.4.4. The facts and evidence gathered during an Investigation shall be presented to the Respondent prior to a Resolution Process commencing.
11.5. Restorative Resolution Processes
11.5.1. Determination of Resolution Process
The Student Accountability Office has sole discretion to determine whether an Administrative Resolution, Facilitated Resolution, or Adjudicated Resolution will be made available to a Respondent.
In deciding whether an Administrative, Facilitated or Adjudicated Resolution will be made available, the Student Accountability Office will consider the willingness of parties to participate in the process, the appropriateness of the process to the alleged breach, and the need to ensure the efficient allocation of University resources. In making this decision the Student Accountability Office will be guided by the Guidelines for Common Non-Academic Misconduct Breaches and Outcomes.
11.5.2. Right to a Hearing Subject to this Policy, all Respondents have the right to have a Complaint resolved through an Adjudicated Resolution before the University Hearing Board, and may exercise this right at any time by submitting a written request to the Student Accountability Office.
11.5.2.1. Where a Respondent exercises this right in relation to a breach after having participated in an Administrative or Facilitated Resolution Process, no evidence obtained during the Administrative or Facilitated Resolution Process may be used against the Respondent unless it can be demonstrated that that its use would not undermine the Respondent’s procedural fairness rights. This provision does not apply to evidence obtained, or that could have been obtained, in an investigation preceding the Administrative or Facilitated Resolution Process.
11.5.3. Administrative Resolution
11.5.3.1. An Administrative Resolution can be made available to the Respondent when a Complaint is expeditiously resolvable, the facts of the Complaint are clear and materially undisputed, and the Respondent is willing to take responsibility for their actions.
11.5.3.2. An Administrative Resolution is normally agreed to in principle by the Case Manager and Respondent during their initial meeting, and then documented in writing and formally agreed to in writing by both the Case Manager and the Respondent.
11.5.3.3. The Case Manager will work with all relevant parties to discuss a desired resolution. Outcomes of an Administrative Resolution may include any Outcome provided for Administrative Resolutions in the Guidelines for Common Non-Academic Misconduct Breaches and Outcomes.
11.5.3.4. A Respondent may withdraw from an Administrative Resolution within ten (10) working days of formally agreeing to the Administrative Resolution. A Respondent who withdraws from an Administrative Resolution is subject to an Adjudicated Resolution.
11.5.3.5. There is no right to appeal an Administrative Resolution. A Respondent who wishes to contest an Administrative Resolution must withdraw from the Administrative Resolution process and is subject to an Adjudicated Resolution.
11.5.4. Facilitated Resolutions
11.5.4.1. A Facilitated Resolution can be employed when both the Respondent, and where applicable the Complainant, are interested in attempting a voluntary resolution of a Complaint or when a Respondent is interested in working collaboratively with the Student Accountability Office to resolve a Complaint.
11.5.4.2. In determining whether a Facilitated Resolution is appropriate the Student Accountability Office will consider whether:
- A voluntary resolution will appropriately mitigate the University’s legal and other risks
- All parties are in a position to reach a resolution in good faith
- There is a reasonable expectation that a resolution can be reached voluntarily
11.5.4.3. Where a Complainant is a participant in the Facilitated Resolution, they will not be required to meet with the Respondent.
11.5.4.4. A Facilitated Resolution will be facilitated by a Case Manager and will take a restorative approach and may employ practices such as mediation, conflict coaching, reconciliation, shuttle negotiations, restorative justice circles or facilitated dialogue.
11.5.4.5. A Facilitated Resolution may include any Outcome provided in the Guidelines for Common Non-Academic Misconduct Breaches and Outcomes except for suspension or expulsion.
11.5.4.6. A Facilitated Resolution is agreed to by the Case Manager, the Respondent and, where applicable, the Complainant over the course of a sustained period of communication and then documented in writing and formally agreed to in writing by all parties.
11.5.4.7. A Respondent may withdraw from a Facilitated Resolution within ten (10) working days of formally agreeing to the Facilitated Resolution. A Respondent who withdraws from a Facilitated Resolution is subject to an Adjudicated Resolution.
11.5.4.8. There is no right to appeal a Facilitated Resolution. A Respondent who wishes to contest a Facilitated Resolution must withdraw from the Facilitated Resolution process, and will be subject to an Adjudicated Resolution.
11.5.5. Adjudicated Resolution
11.5.5.1. An Adjudicated Resolution can be employed where a Case Manager has determined that there is sufficient evidence to support a Complaint under the Policy and where:
- an Adjudicated Resolution has been requested by the Respondent, or
- the Case Manager determines that a Complaint will be resolved by way of an Adjudicated Resolution
11.5.5.2. The Case Manger will determine whether they will:
- Adjudicate the matter themselves
- Refer the matter to another Case Manager for adjudication
- Refer the matter to the Vice-Provost (Student Affairs) for adjudication
- Refer the matter to the University Hearing Board for adjudication
11.5.5.3. An individual who has had a matter referred to them for adjudication pursuant to section 11.5.5.2. may, at their discretion, refer the matter to the University Hearing Board for adjudication.
11.5.5.4. Once the University Hearing Board becomes seized of a matter any subsequent proceeding relating to the matter must come before the University Hearing Board.
11.5.5.5. Adjudication will be conducted pursuant to the Adjudicator – Rules of Procedure or the Hearing – Rules of Procedure, as appropriate.
11.5.5.6. An Adjudicated Resolution may include any Outcome provided in Guidelines for Common Non-Academic Misconduct Breaches and Outcomes, except that where the University seeks to include expulsion among the available outcomes for a breach, a Complaint must be referred to the University Hearing Board for adjudication.
11.5.5.7. An Adjudicated Resolution may be appealed by the Complainant or Respondent within ten (10) working days of receipt of the written decision on one or more of the following grounds:
- The original decision and/or outcome was unreasonable based on the evidence before the original decision-maker,
- New evidence is available that was not available at the time of the original decision, or
- There was bias or lack of procedural fairness.
11.5.5.8. Appeals are subject to the Appeals– Rules of Procedure.
11.5.5.9. An Adjudicated Resolution which is the subject of an Appeal will stand, pending the conclusion of the Appeal.
12. Interim Measures
12.1. Where a Student’s alleged conduct raises reasonable grounds for concern about:
12.1.1. An imminent or ongoing threat to community or workplace safety; or
12.1.2. Risk of future violence or disruption at the University the Vice-Provost (Student Affairs), the Provost or President may implement interim measures that are proportional to the risk identified.
12.2. The following interim measures may be implemented by the Vice-Provost (Student Affairs) or the Provost:
12.2.1. Forbid Entry to Certain Premises. This interim measure forbids entry to any building or buildings, or areas of the University’s premises, including classes. Students who have been forbidden entry to certain premises may be the subject of a Trespass Order issued by the Campus Safety Office.
12.2.2. Removal of Objects. This interim measure orders a Student to remove objects from the University’s premises or any part thereof, for such period of time as the Vice-Provost (Student Affairs) the Provost, or President deem appropriate.
12.2.3. Restrictions on Computing Privileges. This interim measure imposes restrictions on a Student’s University computing privileges, after consulting the University’s Chief Information Officer.
12.2.4. Restricted Access. This interim measure orders that a Student be restricted from any academic, athletic, social or other activity conducted on the University’s Campus or any University-affiliated academic, athletic, social or other activity conducted outside the University’s Campus.
12.2.5. Restricted Communication and Contact. This interim measure prohibits a Student from communication and/or contact with any other University student, staff or faculty member. Such a prohibition may be complete or subject to such conditions and limitations as the Vice-Provost (Student Affairs) imposes.
12.2.6. Suspension – issue an interim suspension.
12.2.7. The following additional interim measures may be imposed following consultation with the Assistant Vice-President (Graduate Studies), in the case of Graduate Students, or the Associate Vice-President (Academic) in the case of all other Students:
12.2.7.1. Removal or transfer from a course, course section or other academic offering.
12.2.7.2. With the consent of the instructor, require a Student to complete some or all course assessments and outcomes through an alternative means.
12.3. The President may implement those interim measures provided in section 12.2 and, after consulting with the Judicial Officer, any other interim measures the President deems necessary to protect the safety and security of the University.
12.4. Where a student’s alleged conduct raises reasonable grounds for concern pursuant to section 12.1 the Campus Safety Office may immediately impose a Trespass Order as an interim measure pursuant to the Trespass to Property Act.
12.5. Interim measures do not constitute a finding of responsibility or outcome.
12.6. Interim measures are not subject to appeal but may be reviewed subject to the process outlined in section 12.7 of this Policy.
12.7. Interim measures are effective as of the time they are communicated to the Student and must be communicated in writing to the Student’s University of Guelph e-mail address as soon as reasonably possible and in any case within two (2) Working Days following implementation.
12.7.1. The written notice to the Student shall include reasons for the interim measure(s) and identify the policy or process under which the matter giving rise to the interim measure(s) will be formally resolved.
12.7.2. The written notice shall advise Students subject to an interim measure of their right to respond and seek review of the imposition of the interim measure in writing to the Vice-Provost (Student Affairs), or to the Provost or President in cases where they have imposed interim measures.
12.7.3. If the Student responds seeking review, the Vice-Provost (Student Affairs), or the Provost or President in cases where they have imposed interim measures, may reassess the interim measure and either confirm, vary or rescind it pending formal disposition of the matter giving rise to the interim measure(s).
12.8. Interim Measures are valid for up to ninety (90) calendar days or until a written decision about the matter giving rise to the interim measures is issued to the Student, whichever time period shorter. If the ninetieth (90th) calendar day is not a working day, the interim measure(s) is(are) automatically extended to the next working day.
12.8.1. The Vice-Provost (Student Affairs), Provost or President may seek an extension of an interim measure(s) from the chair of the University Hearing Board, through the Judicial Officer. The chair may issue a single extension for up to ninety (90) calendar days.
12.8.2. Where there are reasonable grounds to seek an extension of greater than ninety (90) days, the Vice-Provost (Student Affairs), Provost or President may seek an extension of an interim measure(s) from the University Hearing Board. The University Hearing Board may issue extensions for any period of time. The University Hearing Board will hear matters relating to interim measures in writing, unless the Chair of the University Hearing Board determines otherwise.
12.8.3. Once a case has been referred to the University Hearing Board, it may extend, vary or rescind interim measures at its discretion. 12.9. Where interim measures have been imposed, the University shall seek to resolve the matter giving rise to the interim measures as expeditiously as reasonably possible.
13. Student Rights & Responsibilities Committee
13.1. The Student Rights & Responsibilities Committee is responsible for oversight of Non-Academic Conduct generally and for ensuring, together with the Judicial Officer, that the University has a current, cohesive and comprehensive policy framework through which it can redress Non-Academic Conduct issues.
13.2. In keeping with its mandate, the Student Rights & Responsibilities Committee will review all proposed changes to any designated Non-Academic Conduct policy prior to its approval by the relevant approving authority. In reviewing policies, the Student Rights & Responsibilities Committee will focus on ensuring the University maintains a cohesive policy framework through which it can redress Non-Academic Conduct issues and ensure that it respects the domain expertise of policy authors. The following are designated non- academic conduct policies:
- Student Rights & Responsibilities Policy
- Residence Community Living Standards
- Athletics Code of Conduct
- Community Standards Protocol
- Anti-Hazing Protocol
- Protocol for Responding to Students at Risk
- University of Guelph Human Rights Policy and Procedures
- University of Guelph Sexual Violence Policy and Procedures
- Tobacco and Smoke Free Policy
- Use of In-Line Skates, Roller Skates, Skateboards and Hoverboards
- Controversial Student Events Protocol
- Acceptable Use Policy
13.2.1. The Responsible Officers for this Policy may jointly approve the addition or removal of designated non-academic conduct policies.
13.3. The Student Rights & Responsibilities Committee will undertake its mandate in accordance with Terms of Reference approved jointly by the Responsible Officers for this policy.
14. Confidentiality
14.1. The University will protect personal information and handle records related to this Policy in accordance with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and other applicable legislation.
14.2. The University will share personal information where it is necessary for the administration of the policy, to protect public safety or as required by law.
14.3. The General Counsel may authorize the disclosure of personal information where they deem it necessary to fulfil a procedural or other requirement pursuant to a legal proceeding.
14.4. This Policy recognizes that individuals and communities who have been harmed have a right to understand how decisions that impact them have been made and how harms they have experienced have been redressed. The University may, at its sole discretion and to the extent permitted by law, disclose personal information to individuals and communities who have been harmed for the purposes of facilitating such understanding.
14.5. The importance of preserving confidentiality, protecting privacy, and the need to limit the disclosure and sharing of personal information to that which is necessary, will be explained to all parties as a necessary measure to protect the integrity of proceedings under this Policy.
15. Records of Resolution Processes
15.1. The Student Accountability Office will compile a record for each Resolution Process which will include a copy of all documents, including evidence, submitted by all parties and the final decision letter.
15.2. For matters decided by the University Hearing Board, the Judicial Officer shall be responsible for maintaining the records required by section 15.1
15.3. All records of a Resolution Process will be securely destroyed seven (7) years following the conclusion of the process if the Student is found responsible, except in matters leading to suspension or expulsion.
15.4. All records of a Resolution Process leading to suspension or expulsion will be securely destroyed one (1) year after a petition to expunge the suspension or expulsion is granted or after fifty (50) years, whichever occurs sooner.
15.5. For matters leading to a finding of not responsible, all records of a Resolution Process will be securely destroyed after one (1) year or as otherwise provided in the relevant Records, Retention and Disposition Policy.
16. Student Mental Health in all Policies Impact Statement
Policy 1.6 establishes a comprehensive framework for student conduct, rights, and responsibilities at the University of Guelph. It places strong emphasis on community safety, equity, procedural fairness, and restorative practices, all which have significant implications for student mental health. A Student Mental Health in All Policies review highlights both strengths and opportunities within the policy for ensuring that the policy actively promotes student mental health equity.
This review was conducted using a student mental health equity lens, considering the following guiding questions: Does the initiative acknowledge that different individuals or groups are affected in different ways? Does it acknowledge that inequities exist in the opportunities or outcomes that are presented to different individuals or groups? Are the causes of these inequities recognized, and are attempts made to address them?
The policy recognizes that individuals and groups are affected differently by University policies, and its development was informed by campus community consultation, with particular attention paid to the experiences and needs of equity- deserving communities. It outlines multiple forms of support available to students navigating the conduct process, with a clear recognition of the structural supports necessary to assist students in understanding and engaging with resolution pathways, as well as the importance of acknowledging the whole student— including the unique thoughts, emotions, and experiences that may shape their behaviour. These include increased availability of information, guidance, and personalized assistance to reduce confusion and mitigate stress.
The revisions to this policy reflect a shift toward an educational approach, emphasizing student growth, learning, and accountability, rather than punishment. The inclusion of restorative justice options and flexible resolution pathways— administrative, facilitated, and adjudicated—reflects an understanding of the need for processes that promote responsibility while minimizing punitive impacts that may negatively affect student mental health and address the impact of non- academic conduct issues on the University community. This approach supports a more compassionate and inclusive response to non-academic conduct issues, particularly for students from equity-deserving communities. Importantly, the new approach also reduces timelines for case resolution, which can alleviate stress, uncertainty, and the cognitive load often associated with prolonged conduct processes. Accompanying these changes is a necessary investment in communication and education, ensuring that students and those that work with them are aware of their rights, responsibilities, and available supports.
To ensure that Policy 1.6 is implemented in a way that meaningfully supports student mental health, the need for related activities is recognized. These include ensuring that individuals involved in implementing the policy receive appropriate training in mental health literacy, trauma-informed care, and anti-oppressive practices. There is also a need to proactively identify and address barriers to participation in resolution processes on an ongoing basis—such as language access, cultural safety, and overall accessibility. Continual monitoring of complaints, resolution outcomes, and access to support services is essential to evaluating the policy’s impact on student mental health equity over time.
17. Related Policies, Procedures & Documents
17.1. Procedure for Policy 1.6 Student Rights & Responsibilities Policy - Guidelines for Common Non-Academic Misconduct Breaches and Outcomes
17.2. Residence Community Living Standards
17.3. Athletics Code of Conduct
17.4. Community Standards Protocol
17.5. Anti-Hazing Protocol
17.6. Protocol for Responding to Students at Risk
17.7. University of Guelph Human Rights Policy and Procedures
17.8. University of Guelph Sexual Violence Policy and Procedures
17.9. Tobacco and Smoke Free Policy
17.10. Use of In-Line Skates, Roller Skates, Skateboards and Hoverboards
17.11. Controversial Student Events Protocol
17.12. Acceptable Use Policy