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  • Academic integrity

Academic integrity

Concerned about allegations of cheating? We are here to help you.

Illustration of an award for KSU Awards

The University defines Academic Misconduct (cheating) in assessments as any attempt by a student to gain an unfair advantage or to help someone else gain an advantage. This includes: 

  • Plagiarism 
  • Self-plagiarism 
  • Collusion 
  • Cheating in exams 
  • Contract cheating 
  • Fabrication of laboratory results 

​How we can help

We are here to support you through the process, and help you understand the policies and regulations. 

What should I do next?

Your letter

You will receive a letter to your home address or KU email with the academic misconduct regulations and a request to attend a panel hearing. 

Guidelines

Familiarise yourself with the University's guidelines on good academic practices. Seek support from Academic Skills Centres, Course Directors, and Module Leaders if needed. 

Stay organised

Keep notes, working drafts, and revision notes, as hearings can occur weeks or months after submission/exam dates. 

Evidence

Request evidence from the faculty supporting their allegation. 

Contact us for guidance

Inform

Inform the faculty if you can attend the panel and whether you will bring an observer (family member, friend, or one of our advisors). 

What will happen at the panel?

The panel typically consists of at least two academic staff members not involved in teaching the module.

You will have the opportunity to explain your work process, provide evidence that the work is your own, and argue why academic misconduct has not occurred.

The panel may also hear from academic staff involved in the module. 

After your panel

After the panel, they will make a recommendation to the Programme Assessment Board, which will decide if academic misconduct occurred and, if necessary, issue a penalty. 

Penalties

Penalties vary based on your level of study and whether this is your first, second, or third offence, and whether you have disclosed misconduct before a panel. 

Professional courses allegations

Professional Courses allegations (e.g., Nursing, Social Work) may also impact your Fitness to Practise. 

Policies and regulation

 

Still have questions?

Speak to our advice team. We can arrange an appointment that suits you. 

Book an appointment

In this section

  • Academic advice
    • Academic appeals
    • Academic integrity
    • Complaints
    • Conduct and behaviour
    • Fitness to practice
    • Mitigating circumstances
    • Notice to quit
    • Report and support
  • Book an advice appointment
  • Cost of living
  • Useful contacts & information

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    Kingston upon Thames
    KT1 2EE
  • studentsunion@kingston.ac.uk

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