Academic Integrity

Academic integrity is the cornerstone value of learning. The Academic Integrity Initiative provides tools, information and support to promote a climate of honesty and integrity here at the University of Idaho. Faculty, staff and student leaders have important responsibilities to contribute to this effort in creating an academic culture that celebrates honesty, fairness and trust.

Integrity is expected of all University students. This means that you must in no way misrepresent your work, fraudulently or unfairly advance your academic status, or have any part in another student's failure to maintain academic honesty. Academic dishonesty is defined by the UI Faculty Handbook as cheating, plagiarism (to steal or pass off as your own), or otherwise obtaining grades under false pretenses.

General Responsibilities

1. Students assume responsibility for the content and integrity of the academic work they submit, such as papers, examinations, or reports.

2. Students will be subject to the campus disciplinary proceedings if they:

a. Knowingly present the work of others as their own.
b. Use or obtain unauthorized assistance in any academic work.
c. Give fraudulent assistance to another student.
d. Forge a signature to certify completion or approval of a course assignment.
e. Fabricate data in support of laboratory or fieldwork.

Specific Guidelines

1. Examinations: During in-class examinations no student may use, give, or receive any assistance or information not given by the examination or proctor. It is extremely important to keep your eyes on your own exam. No student may take an examination for another student. On take-home exams, the student may not consult with any persons other than the course professor and teaching assistants regarding the exam unless the instructor expressly states otherwise. The student is responsible for understanding the conditions under which the examination will be taken.

2. Course assignments: Students are encouraged to discuss the content of the course with each other and to help each other master it, but they should not accept help from others in doing course assignments that are meant to test what they can do on their own.

3. Papers & Thesis: Plagiarism is a violation of the University of Idaho code. The source of published materials must be clearly and completely cited.


Where to Get Academic Help
If you are having issues in any of your classes, the first person to speak with is your professor. International Student, Scholar and Faculty Services (ISSFS) is also a resource that is always available to you. If you ever have questions or concerns about your academics the ISSFS is here to assist you in getting the help you need. Please see the Academic Resources page.