Academic Suspension Guide

Academic Suspension can occur when a student violates the terms of their academic probation (e.g., failing a course or not meeting an average as outlined by your program) and can also result as a sanction from Academic Integrity based decisions.

• The Registrar’s website has detailed information about Academic Status including Probation, Suspension and Debarment.
• Students facing suspension can also explore the alternative BOOST Program.

• The Undergraduate Calendar outlines the procedure for appealing an academic suspension.
• The Registrar’s Office also offers tips and a sample appeal letter for students to follow.

1. Speak with an academic advisor to fully understand why you were placed on academic suspension.
   1. Confirm the duration of your suspension (one term? 12 months?)
   2. Confirm the reach of your suspension (from program courses only? From Brock entirely?)
   3. Work with an advisor to create a game plan to return to school after the BOOST program, or after you have fulfilled your suspension, or after a successful appeal.
2. Read this guide from Academic Advising and Exploration Services about Probation and Suspension.

To reposition yourself for academic success at any college or university, we recommend that you:

Reflect

• What were the key reasons you have not been successful at Brock?
• If you feel your performance was due to circumstances (e.g., health issues, financial pressures, family obligations, personal problems), how will you better manage those circumstances in the future, should similar issues arise?
• If your academic performance was due to your time management, class attendance, study skills etc., what steps will you take right now to change those habits?
• Use your period of dismissal to reflect on and address the factors that led to your poor performance.

Take Action

• Meet with an academic advisor. The Registrar’s Office has general academic advisors and each department has Faculty specific advisors who can guide you. Book your online advising appointment ASAP.
• Meet with a counselor or Psychologist in Personal Counselling Services via the Student Development Centre to address personal issues that have been barriers to your success.
• If applicable, become familiar with the resources and services available for students with disabilities. Work with our Case Managers to see if/what accommodations could help improve: taking notes in lecture, getting extra time or a different environment to write exams; assistive technology and more.
  • Get registered as a student with a disability.
  • Receive disability assessment.
  • Get documentation to provide to professors and TA’s.
• Explore Major and Career options. Determine if you can successfully earn your desired program and degree at Brock or if your interests would be best served at another college or university.
  • Consult Career Services to get career advice and use the Career Assessment Tool.
  • Perform an in-depth review of programs through Brock’s Undergraduate or Graduate Calendar including course/program requirements, entry standards, and graduation requirements. Academic Advisors can help.
  • Review your program guide by visiting your department’s website and searching for your program.
• Develop your learning and writing skills with workshops and tutorials from A-Z Learning Services.
  • Sign up for workshops.
  • Learn about the BOOST program as an alternative to academic suspension.
  • Consider using a Tutor.

RETURN TO UNIVERSITY … at the right time for you.

Consider the following as you determine the timing of your intended return to Brock:

• Are you able to focus on your course work and dedicate the time you need for school?
• Do you have a personal support network to get you through difficult times?
• Do you have academic support to help you navigate the school year?
• Are you balancing work, school and personal matters in a way that will allow you to be successful?
• Have you fulfilled the entire suspension or debarment? If so, be prepared to outline how you spent your time away from school.
• Contact Academic Advising for guidance on re-entering Brock after you have fulfilled your suspension or debarment.
  • To get information about the re-entrance procedure.
  • To attain guidance on your re-entry letter.
  • To get a timeline on when your re-entry application will be considered.
• Plan your re-entry long in advance. You should have your letter written and submitted by the spring preceding your fall entry.
• If you wish to appeal your suspension, please see the Ombuds Guide to Suspension.