Academic integrity at NOVA means completing academic work honestly, responsibly, and ethically.
NOVA encourages students to learn about academic integrity expectations and develop strategies for completing academic work honestly, ethically, and responsibly.
Students are encouraged to voluntarily complete the following Student Lingo modules to strengthen their understanding of academic integrity, recognize common forms of academic misconduct, and develop strategies for avoiding academic integrity violations:
These modules provide practical guidance on proper academic practices, ethical decision-making, and the importance of maintaining integrity in all academic work.
Please note: Students may also be assigned one or both of these modules as an educational sanction when appropriate as part of the academic integrity process.
Understanding how to properly cite sources is an important part of academic integrity. NOVA Libraries provides resources and guides to help students learn correct citation practices and avoid plagiarism.
Students can access citation guides and resources for:
Visit the NOVA Libraries Citing Sources to learn more about APA, MLA, and Chicago citation styles and best practices for properly acknowledging sources.
NOVA offers a variety of academic support resources to help students develop skills, understand academic expectations, and complete their coursework successfully. Students are encouraged to use these resources when they need assistance with coursework, research, writing, study strategies, or navigating NOVA resources.
Academic Advising
Meet with an academic advisor for guidance on course planning, academic success strategies, and connecting with campus resources. Learn More
Accommodations and Accessibility Services
Learn about disability accommodations, accessibility resources, and support services available to eligible students. Learn More
NOVA Libraries
Access research assistance, citation guidance, library databases, and informational literacy resources to support your academic work. Learn More
Tutoring Services
Receive support with course concepts, writing, citation practices, study strategies, time management, and other academic skills. Tutoring services are available in a variety of subjects and can help students strengthen the skills needed for academic success. Learn More
Student Success Guides
Connect with a Student Success Guide for guidance on navigating NOVA, identifying campus resources, developing academic success strategies, and connecting with the appropriate offices and support services. Learn More
Students involved in the academic integrity process have the right to:
Students are not considered responsible for an academic integrity violation unless and until a determination of responsibility has been made through the established academic integrity process.
What happens if I am reported for academic misconduct?
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.
What should I do if I receive a notice that I have been reported?
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.
What happens if I do not respond to the notice or participate in the process?
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.
How long does the Academic Integrity process take?
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.
Will I automatically fail my course?
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.
What happens if I am found responsible?
If a student is found responsible, sanctions may include grade-based sanctions, educational sanctions, or referral to the appropriate College process when additional review is needed.
Can I appeal a decision?
Yes. Students may appeal decisions according to the timelines and procedures outlined in Procedure 224P.
Can I withdraw from a course after an academic integrity concern is reported?
Students who withdraw from a course while an academic integrity concern is pending may still be subject to the academic integrity process and potential grade changes if responsibility is determined. 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 a withdrawal may not resolve or end the academic integrity process.How are academic integrity records maintained?
Records related to academic integrity concerns are maintained 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.
Who can I contact if I have questions about the academic integrity process?
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.
What is plagiarism?
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.
What is the difference between cheating and 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.
Can I use artificial intelligence (AI) tools for my academic work?
The use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools, including generative AI tools, must follow the expectations established by your instructor and 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.