Basis for Graduate Academic Dismissal Appeals 

A student may base an appeal of an academic dismissal on one or more of the following: 

  • A factual dispute regarding the basis for dismissal,  

  • The sanction of dismissal is disproportionate to the offense, and/or 

  • There are extenuating circumstances that might impact the basis for the dismissal (e.g. a student with a catastrophic illness who is pursuing a retroactive withdrawal).  

Documentation 

The burden of proof in the dismissal appeal is always on the student. Therefore, the student must identify the basis/bases for appeal and substantiate the grievance(s). Retention of all documentation relevant to the dismissal, including but not limited to the syllabus, tests, papers, and any other graded evaluations as well as communication between the student and faculty, supervisors, staff, and/or administers, is strongly recommended as these items may be helpful or even necessary to establish the basis/bases for appeal. 

Confidentiality 

All individuals involved with an academic appeal are required to maintain the confidentiality of the proceedings and of all materials presented. 

Graduate Academic Dismissal Appeals Process

Graduate academic dismissal appeals follow the processes detailed in the Graduate Academic Appeals Process beginning with step 4 "Provost Review."