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Frequently Asked Questions - OSRR
Office of Student Rights & Responsibilities
The student conduct process is about helping students navigating their way through difficult times as a student at Cal Poly. Our process meets the highest standards of fundamental fairness and due process required by law.
The Process Explained
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Processes FAQ
How does the judicial process work at Cal Poly?
The judicial process is administered by the Office of Student Rights & Responsibilities (OSRR) at the university. The procedures for the judicial process are prescribed but the Chancellor’s Office of the CSU and they govern every campus within the system (meaning every campus is using the same judicial process). These procedures can be found in what is called Executive Order 1098 (S, dent Conduct Process), which is linked on the OSRR website for any party to view.
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How does OSRR at Cal Poly approach the conduct process philosophically?
The Office of Student Rights & Responsibilities (OSRR) upholds Cal Poly's student conduct code by promoting ethics, integrity, and respect, prioritizing student learning and development throughout the judicial process. When appropriate, OSRR aims to support students in staying on track for graduation, even when addressing conduct concerns.
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What types of outcomes could be assigned if I am found responsible for violating the code of conduct?
This video explains the range of outcomes OSRR may propose following a conduct investigation, all aimed at supporting a safe and healthy campus environment. Sanctions vary based on the case and can include warnings, educational or remedial actions, restitution, disciplinary probation, suspension, or expulsion from the CSU system.
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What are the only outcomes that end up as a permanent notation on my record?
Certain conduct outcomes—such as long-term suspension, expulsion, or withdrawal during serious investigations—result in a permanent transcript notation, with no exceptions or waivers allowed.
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If there is supporting evidence, the student disciplinary process is initiated by emailing information about the charges to the student and directing the student to call the Office of Student Rights & Responsibilities to schedule an appointment to discuss the charges.
Conduct FAQ
What is FERPA and does OSRR tell other offices about my conduct record?
FERPA, or the Family Educational Records and Privacy Act, is a federal law that protects student educational records, this includes a student's conduct record. Conduct cases are confidential records and therefore are protected from unauthorized disclosure, without students' written permission.
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What does it mean to be on disciplinary probation?
This video explains disciplinary probation at Cal Poly, a temporary status that may affect eligibility for certain campus opportunities. While OSRR can confirm probation status to requesting offices, specific conduct details remain confidential under FERPA, and eligibility decisions are made by each individual program or service.
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What is an Intake Meeting, and What Happens During It?
This video covers the Intake meeting, the first step in Cal Poly’s student conduct process. It’s an opportunity for students to hear the allegations, share their perspective, and provide evidence, with some cases even being resolved during this initial conversation based on the information presented.
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What does the preponderance of evidence mean?
This video explains the "preponderance of evidence" standard used in Cal Poly’s student conduct process—meaning decisions are based on what is more likely than not to have occurred. Unlike legal proceedings, this educational process allows for some doubt and emphasizes learning rather than punishment.
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What is a Conference, and what happens during it?
This video outlines the Conference stage in Cal Poly’s student conduct process, where OSRR presents its findings and rationale for a responsible determination. It’s a collaborative opportunity for the student and OSRR to discuss the outcomes and, if both agree, finalize a written resolution to close the case.
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What is an Advisor, and can I have them with me during my meetings with OSRR?
This video explains that students and complainants may bring an advisor to meetings with OSRR, with certain conditions. While advisors can be anyone with no relevant knowledge of the allegations, attorneys may only be present in specific cases involving criminal proceedings or severe outcomes like suspension or expulsion. Advisors are there to support, but cannot speak for the student during the process.
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- Restitution
- Educational and Remedial Sanctions
- Loss of Financial Aid
- Disciplinary Probation
- Denial of Access to Campus or Persons
- Suspension
- Expulsion
Policies
Student Code of Conduct
Upon admission, students agree to adhere to the Student Code of Conduct. The judicial process for the university is prescribed through Executive Order 1098.
►Student Conduct Policies
►Other Campus Policies & Resources
