Student code of conduct

About the Code of Conduct

The Student Code of Conduct sets out the standards of conduct expected of students. It holds individuals and groups responsible for the consequences of their actions. Failure to fulfill these responsibilities may result in the withdrawal of privileges or the imposition of sanctions.

UBC is a community of students, faculty and staff involved in learning, teaching, research and other activities. In accordance with the UBC Respectful Environment Statement, all members of this community are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that contributes positively to an environment in which respect, civility, diversity, opportunity and inclusiveness are valued, so as to assure the success of both the individual and the community. The Student Code of Conduct reflects a concern for these values and tries to ensure that members of UBC and the public can make use of and enjoy the activities, facilities and benefits of UBC without undue interference from others.

The information provided on this page is an overview of the Student Code of Conduct. It is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for the Code itself or UBC's full policies and regulations regarding non-academic student misconduct. Students are responsible for reading, understanding and abiding by the Code. The entire Student Code of Conduct is available in the Policies and Regulations section of the UBC Vancouver Academic Calendar under Student Conduct and Discipline.

When does the code apply?

The Student Code of Conduct applies to any student enrolled in a credit course at UBC, including co-op and exchange students.

The Code applies to conduct that occurs on or near the premises of the UBC. It also applies to conduct that occurs elsewhere if it is related to University-sponsored programs or activities, (such as travelling athletic teams), or if it occurs in the context of a relationship between the student and a third party that involves the student’s standing, status or academic record at UBC.

The Code does not apply to conduct that is assigned to another disciplinary body at the University, allegations regarding a student’s failure to meet standards of professional conduct, or conduct committed by a student solely in their capacity as an employee of UBC.

Students living in residence may also be subject to a separate residence policy for conduct that occurs in any buildings managed by Student Housing and Community Services or the property surrounding these residences. For further information, please review the applicable Residence Contract/Residential Agreement.

Prohibited conduct

All municipal, provincial, and federal laws apply on campus.

Prohibited conduct under the Code includes but is not limited to:

  • Assaulting, harassing, intimidating, or threatening another individual or group
  • Endangering the health or safety of others
  • Stealing, misusing, destroying, defacing or damaging UBC property or property belonging to someone else
  • Disrupting University activities
  • Using UBC facilities, equipment, services or computers without authorization
  • Making false accusations against any member of UBC
  • Supplying false information to UBC or forging, altering or misusing any UBC document or record
  • Storing, possessing or using real or replica firearms or other weapons, explosives (including fireworks), ammunition, or toxic or otherwise dangerous materials on University grounds
  • Using, possessing or distributing illegal drugs
  • Violating provincial liquor laws or UBC alcohol policies
  • Hazing
  • Encouraging, aiding, or conspiring in any prohibited conduct
  • Failing to comply with a disciplinary measure or disciplinary measures imposed under the procedures of this Code

Disciplinary measures

Disciplinary measures that may be imposed under the Code include but are not limited to: 

  • Written warning or reprimand
  • Probation, during which certain conditions must be fulfilled and good behaviour must be demonstrated
  • Payment of costs or compensation for any loss, damage or injury caused by the conduct
  • Issuance of an apology, made publicly or privately
  • Loss of certain privileges
  • Restriction or prohibition of access to, or use of, UBC facilities, services, activities, or programs
  • Fines or loss of fees
  • Relocation or exclusion from residence
  • Suspension
  • Expulsion

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