Dismissal-Suspension Guide

Information for people who have been Suspended, Dismissed, restricted from the Residence Halls, or Persona Non Grata

Download a printable PDF version of the Dismissal-Suspension Guide

Suspension means that the student is separated from Kent State University (including all Kent State University regional campuses) and unable to continue classes (including online unless otherwise determined) for a specific period of time, or until a specific requirement is completed.
Dismissal is considered a permanent separation from Kent State University (including all Kent State University regional campuses) and a student is unable to continue classes (including online unless otherwise determined).
Residence Hall Restriction is an action that applies Persona Non Grata status and pertains to all Kent State University Residence Halls and Apartments, including dining facilities contained within Residence Hall facilities.
Persona Non Grata status means that a person is no longer permitted to be present on any Kent State University property or facilities (including regional campuses of Kent State University) for the duration of the sanction. Should you need to come to the Kent State campus for any reason, you must request permission from the Office of Student Conduct (in writing) and receive permission (in writing) at least seventy-two (72) hours prior to your appearance on campus. Failure to comply may result in further Student Conduct charges and/or criminal charges. NOTE: Persona Non Grata status does not eliminate a student from all forms of communication with the University; only his/her physical presence.

What happens to a student’s classes?

When a student is separated for disciplinary reasons from Kent State University, they are withdrawn from classes administratively. This usually results in grades of "W" on the transcript. Suspended and dismissed students’ records have a disciplinary hold placed on their records for the period of the suspension/dismissal.

When does the sanction take effect?

Immediately, unless an appeal is submitted; then all sanctions take effect after the appeal process is complete. A student has one week to submit an appeal in writing to the Office of Student Conduct (OSC). The only exception is if there was already an interim action in place (such as a no contact order or suspension; then the interim action will remain in effect until and unless an appeal decision alters sanctioning).

How can a student appeal?

Go to the OSC website, fill out the form by selecting at least one of the reasons for appeal, and include a statement that fully explains context and rationale. An appeal must be submitted to OSC in writing (preferably typed) by email or in person to the OSC office in 119 Twin Towers (Beall/McDowell) during office hours, 8am-5pm, Monday through Friday. Appeals are reviewed by a panel, none of which participated in the original hearing, who will make a recommendation to the Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs (or designee). The vice president’s (or designee)’s decision is final and exhausts the University’s student conduct process.

What happens to a student’s Dining Services / Meal Plan?

Students may be eligible for a credit to their student account for the unused portion of their meal plan depending on the effective date of the suspension/dismissal. Specific information regarding user card agreement details are available through the FLASHcard Office. Note that a credit may take several weeks and will be posted to the student account so the Flashcard may be immediately unable to be used. If a student is restricted from Residence Services, he/she may NOT use the dining areas within residence hall areas. He/she may access all other dining services units – see the Dining Services locations and menus guide for dining locations.

What happens to a student’s Housing Contract?

Students may be eligible for a credit to their student account for the unused portion of their residency depending on the effective date of the suspension/dismissal. Specific information regarding housing contract details are available on the housing contract information page or by contacting the Director of Residence Services. Failure to check out of the Residence Halls appropriately may result in further charges.

What will appear on a student’s “permanent file”?

Disciplinary decisions are NOT placed on a student’s official academic transcript, and ineligible holds placed on a student’s registration file only prohibit a student from registering at Kent State University (including KSU regional campuses). A disciplinary hold will NOT prevent KSU from processing the transfer of student transcripts. OSC does not expunge disciplinary files that result in dismissal from the University, as it is considered unfinished business.

Can a student ever return to Kent State University?

Students who are suspended may return once all sanctions are completed, other stated conditions are met, and after the end of the suspension period. Students who are dismissed may submit a request to the Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs which may be reviewed once per year. It is the discretion of the vice president (or designee) to uphold or amend a dismissal decision.

Can a student transfer to another school?

Yes. A decision suspending or dismissing a student from Kent State University is only applicable to Kent State University (and Kent State University regional campuses). Other institutions, as a part of their admissions process, may inquire about current standing at previous institutions. This is why it is recommended that even if a student does not plan on returning to KSU, he/she completes all sanctioning components so that OSC can report their eligibility to return.

While you are on suspension from the university, we encourage you to take the time to seek the resources and support you need in order to return to the university and complete your degree.

Questions regarding your suspension, dismissal or residence hall restriction may be directed to studentconduct@kent.edu or 330-672-4054.

Resources

Other available resources can be referenced on the Student Conduct resources page:

Kent State University Police
Student Ombuds
Human Resources
Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action
Code of Student Conduct
Office of Student Conduct Appeal Form
FLASHcard Office
Residence Services Hallways Handbook
Student FERPA Release Form
Office of Sexual & Relationship Violence Support Services
Kent State University Policy Register
Family Education Right to Privacy Act (FERPA)
Student Legal Services