The U of T Academic Integrity website contains an outline of Process and Procedures involved in academic misconduct cases. If you have been accused of academic misconduct, you may have to meet with your instructor, a department Chair's designate or in some cases, a Dean's designate. Below are some guidelines to help you prepare for a meeting with the Dean's Designate.
To prepare for the meeting:
- Seek Academic Advising: Contact your College Registrar’s Office for guidance.
- Review the Code: Familiarize yourself with the Code of Behaviour on Academic Matters, particularly Sections B.I., B.II., and C.I.
- Gather Relevant Documents: If you have materials to share, email the Student Academic Integrity team at sai.artsci@utoronto.ca to confirm whether they should be submitted in advance.
- Plan Your Space: Choose a private, quiet location with a stable internet connection for the meeting.
- Be Punctual: Arrive on time and wait for admission from the Zoom waiting room.
During the meeting:
- The meeting will be led by the Dean’s designate. Additional attendees may include your instructor and staff from the Student Academic Integrity team and/or the department.
- You may bring a support person (e.g., a family member, friend, or advisor), provided they do not have an active case with Student Academic Integrity.
- At the start of the meeting, you may be asked to briefly turn your camera on to verify your ID. However, keeping your camera on for the entire meeting is not mandatory, although it is encouraged.
- The Dean’s designate will explain the allegation and the relevant section of the Code.
- You will have an opportunity to explain your perspective. Be honest and clear. If you need clarification at any point, ask questions.
- You are not obligated to make any statements or admissions during the meeting.
After the meeting:
- After reviewing all of the information and hearing your side of the story, the Dean’s designate may impose a sanction, dismiss the allegation or forward your case to the Vice-Provost’s office.
- If the Dean or their designate believes that an academic offence has not been committed, your case will be dismissed. You will receive a notice of dismissal in writing, your academic work will undergo normal evaluation and the GWR on your record will be replaced by your final grade.
- Alternatively, if the Dean or their designate believes that an academic offence has been committed and you admit guilt, sanctions can be imposed at the divisional level or the matter may be referred to the Vice Provost’s office.
- If you plead 'not guilty' or choose to not enter a plea, and the Dean or their representative believes that an academic offence has been committed, the matter may be referred to the Vice Provost’s office for consideration.
- Any next steps or decisions are typically communicated to you in the meeting. In addition, the Dean’s designate or the Student Academic Integrity team may connect you with on-campus resources or services to support your success and learning going forward.