Student Resources

• The use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools, including generative AI tools, must follow the expectations established by your instructor, course syllabus, and other course requirements.
• Unauthorized use of AI tools may be considered an academic integrity concern and may fall under academic dishonesty, including plagiarism, cheating, or other forms of academic dishonesty. Some tools, such as writing assistants, grammar tools (e.g., Grammarly), translation tools, or other applications that incorporate AI features, may be permitted in some courses and restricted in others. Students should consult their instructor to understand what tools and types of assistance are permitted for each assignment.
• When expectations are unclear, students are always encouraged to ask their instructor before using AI tools for academic work.

Plagiarism is a form of academic misconduct that occurs when a student presents another person's words, ideas, or work as their own without proper acknowledgment or citation. Students are encouraged to cite sources appropriately and consult Academic Integrity Policy 224 for the full definition and examples of plagiarism.

• Cheating generally involves using unauthorized materials, assistance, information, or resources to gain an academic advantage.
• Plagiarism generally involves presenting another person's words, ideas, or work as one's own without proper acknowledgment or citation.

Both are forms of academic misconduct addressed under Academic Integrity Policy 224.

A report of suspected academic misconduct does not automatically result in a finding of responsibility. The concern will be reviewed by the instructor or the appropriate college official, and students will have an opportunity to provide information and respond before a determination is made through the established academic integrity process.

Review the information provided and participate in the process. Students have an opportunity to discuss the concern, provide additional information, and respond before a determination is made.

Students are highly encouraged to participate in the academic integrity process and provide any relevant information. If a student does not respond, the alleged academic misconduct may continue to be reviewed based on the information available, and a decision may be made.

The timeline may vary depending on the circumstances of the concern, required review steps, and whether an appeal is submitted. Students should refer to Procedure 224P for applicable timelines.

Not necessarily. Outcomes vary depending on the nature and severity of the academic integrity violation. In accordance with Procedure 224P, instructors may assign sanctions, including a failing grade on an assignment, a reduced course grade, or a failing grade in the course when appropriate.

If a student is found responsible for an academic integrity violation, sanctions may include grade-based sanctions, educational sanctions, or administrative sanctions. The Office of Academic Integrity reviews cases based on established criteria, such as repeated findings of responsibility, to determine whether administrative sanctions are warranted and may refer matters to the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities for administrative sanctioning. Additionally, the Office of Academic Integrity maintains records related to academic integrity cases resulting in a finding of responsibility in accordance with applicable record retention policies.

Yes. Students may appeal decisions according to the timelines and procedures outlined in Procedure 224P. For additional guidance and access to required forms, visit the Academic Integrity Forms section of this website.

Students who withdraw from a course while an academic integrity concern is pending may still be subject to the academic integrity process and a determination of responsibility. If responsibility is determined after the student withdraws, the student's course record may be updated, including a potential grade change, and the student may be administratively reinstated to implement the grade change determined by the outcome of the process.

Students are encouraged to speak with their instructor or contact the Office of Academic Integrity before withdrawing from a course in which an academic integrity concern is pending, as withdrawing from the course does not resolve or end the academic integrity process.

Records related to academic integrity concerns are maintained by Office of Academic Integrity according to Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) policies and in accordance with retention standards established by the Library of Virginia, as outlined in the Code of Virginia § 42.1-85. Additional information about records management and retention schedules is available through the Library of Virginia’s records management and retention resources under schedule GS- 111.

Permanent sanctions recorded on a student transcript, such as suspension or dismissal, are retained indefinitely. Students may contact the Office of Academic Integrity with questions regarding records and documentation.

If you have questions about the academic integrity process, the Office of Academic Integrity is available to provide guidance and answer questions. You may also contact your Associate Dean for additional support and information regarding the process.