Admission; Policies and Procedures

The following general regulations concern all Graduate School of Arts and Sciences students. Each student is responsible for becoming familiar with the general regulations of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences and the more specific requirements stated in the individual section on each department, division, or program, which may go beyond or supplement the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences standards.

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Admission

Qualifications for Admission Any well-qualified person with a baccalaureate degree from a recognized college or university or with equivalent international education may apply for admission to the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. A student’s undergraduate program should include introductory studies in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The student may be required to make up any deficiencies in his or her academic background by completion of specified courses without credit. Boston University does not permit a student to enroll simultaneously in more than one graduate program, unless those programs have been previously approved by the Trustees of Boston University as a combined degree program.

Application Applications and instructions for submission of complete credentials may be obtained from the Boston University Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, 705 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02215, or by contacting Bulletin Requests via e‑mail: grartsci@bu.edu. Note that only application requests can be received at this address. Any other questions can be answered via e-mail at grs@bu.edu. Application forms and instructions are also available in printable pdf versions online at Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, as is the online application. Please be sure to provide a name and mailing address for any application request, and to indicate an intended area of study. For the paper version, both the School Copy and the Department Copy of the Application for Admission must be completed, signed, and submitted to the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences Admissions Office.

A nonrefundable application fee of $70 must be submitted with each application. If using a paper version of the Application for Admission, this fee must be paid in U.S. currency or check, international money order, or an international check in U.S. funds drawn on a bank in the United States. Credit card payment or Traveler’s Checks cannot be accepted with the paper application; however, when submitting the online application, payment is required by credit card. This fee cannot be waived or deferred. Applications will not be considered without the application fee.

All applicants must also submit the following credentials:

1.  official transcripts or records of each college or university attended with official documentation of the names and dates of all previous academic degrees awarded. A college senior should submit an official report of the work completed through the first semester of the senior year as early as possible.
2.  letters of recommendation in English from at least two faculty members in the proposed field of graduate study who are familiar with American higher education.
3.  official test results of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) (General Test and Subject Test) and/or the Miller Analogies Test (MAT), as required by the department to which the student is applying. Check departmental requirements in this bulletin or the Department/Program Information Sheet portion of the application.

For GRE application materials and information, contact the Educational Testing Service, P.O. Box 6000, Princeton, NJ 08541-6000; 609-771-7670; E-mail: gre-info@ets.org; Web: www.gre.org.

Information about the MAT may be obtained at most universities or by writing to the Psychological Corporation, Miller Analogies Test, 19500 Bulverde Road, San Antonio, TX 78259. Telephone: 800-622-3231; Web: Miller Analogies Test.

All credentials submitted in support of an application become property of Boston University. Neither originals nor copies may be returned.

Application Deadlines For most programs, the deadlines for admission with full consideration for all available forms of Graduate School merit-based financial aid are January 15 for Fall admission and October 15 for Spring admission. Adhering to these deadlines will ensure that you are considered for all available forms of merit-based financial aid, both University-wide and departmental. Please be aware that many programs have an earlier deadline for Fall admission/financial aid consideration. The PhD program in Clinical Psychology has an earlier deadline of December 1 for Fall admission/financial aid consideration.

Individual departments/programs may have later deadlines for admission consideration if you wish to be considered for departmental financial aid only, or if you do not wish to be considered for financial aid at all. These deadlines are listed on the Department/Program Information Sheet, enclosed with the Application for Admission. By submitting an application by the deadlines stated there, you will be considered for financial assistance as departmental funds allow. Applications that are complete at the time of the deadlines will be given priority. An application is considered complete when all required credentials, as listed above, have been received by the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences.

Application Submission The completed Application for Admission and supporting credentials should be directed to:

Admissions Office
Graduate School of Arts and Sciences
Boston University
705 Commonwealth Avenue, Suite 112
Boston, MA 02215
U.S.A.

Note: In addition to the above, applicants who have twice been rejected for admission to the same degree program must submit a letter of approval for application from the current director of graduate studies for the department to which they seek admission.

International Applicants In addition to following the procedures outlined above, applicants who are not citizens of the United States or who do not hold official United States Permanent Residency status must submit the following:

1. A completed, signed International Student Data Form, including the financial support and visa documentation requested on the Form. This form is available as part of the Application for Admission.
2. Certified English translations of all transcripts and academic records.
3. Official results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) are required of all applicants whose native language is not English. Unless otherwise required by a department/program, the minimum score requirement is 213 (computer-based test), 550 (paper-based test), or 84 (internet-based test). This requirement is waived only if you have received, or expect to receive, an undergraduate or graduate degree from a college or university in any of the following countries prior to enrollment in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences: The United States of America, Canada, The United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, or Ireland.

The TOEFL Bulletin of Information and registration form can be obtained at American embassies and consulates, offices of the United States Information Service (USIS), U.S. education commissions and foundations abroad, binational centers, and certain private organizations. Applicants who cannot obtain a TOEFL Bulletin and registration form locally should write for them well in advance to TOEFL/TSE Services, P.O. Box 6151, Princeton, NJ 08541-6151, USA; 609-771-7975; Web: TOEFL.

International students must provide evidence of financial resources adequate to cover travel to and from Boston and for tuition and living costs for at least one full year at Boston University. A limited number of appointments to teaching fellowships and assistantships are available for qualified international students with superior fluency in English. Immigration regulations prohibit most international students from accepting any employment except University appointments during the first year of study in the United States. Information and assistance regarding governmental regulations and University services may be obtained by writing to the International Students and Scholars Office, 19 Deerfield Street, Boston, MA 02215.

Because of the relatively small amount of time available for processing and reviewing applications for admission to the spring semester, international students are strongly advised to apply only for fall semester admission.

For further advice and assistance in seeking admission, international students should consult the nearest U.S. embassy, consulate, or information center.

Nondegree Applicants A person with an accredited bachelor’s degree or its foreign equivalent who is qualified for graduate work, but who does not wish to enter a degree program, may apply to a department or program in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences for admission as a special student with nondegree status. The completed application and a transcript of the most recent degree awarded should be submitted along with the application fee. Results of the Graduate Record Examination or the Miller Analogies Test are not required.

Application for a change from nondegree to degree status must be made before the admission deadline for the semester of intended enrollment. No more than two courses for a degree program of eight semester courses, or four courses for a degree program of 16 semester courses, may be credited toward the degree, and only if the grades received are B or higher.

Financial assistance is not available to nondegree students.

Deferral Requests The Graduate School of Arts and Sciences does not defer admissions. However, if you were admitted you may request consideration for readmission for a future semester that is up to one year beyond your initial semester of admission. Your original application will be reviewed along with all other applications for admission for the requested semester of reconsideration, taking into account present competition and work undertaken by you in the interim. The Admissions Committee will review, rate, and reach an admissions decision as if it were the first time you were applying. You need not submit a new application, set of credentials, or application fee. (Your original application credentials are kept on file for one year.) It is important to understand that the department is not obligated to re-offer admission. A request for readmission consideration must be made in writing to the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences Admissions Office at 705 Commonwealth Avenue, Suite 112, Boston, MA 02215 or with the Deferral Request Form.

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General Requirements for the MA

Course Requirements Candidates for the MA degree are required to complete a minimum of eight graduate-level semester courses (32 credits) or the equivalent. At least four of the required eight courses must be in the major field. Normally, no more than four courses may be taken concurrently. Each student must register for at least one course each semester until completion of all departmental course requirements unless he or she obtains an authorized leave of absence. The number of courses that may be transferred to an MA program is explained in more detail in the Transfer of Credit section of this site.

Continuing Registration

See Registration and Leave of Absence sections.

Residency Requirement Students must be registered in the semester or summer term in which they complete degree requirements and in the preceding semester.

Language Requirement The Graduate School of Arts and Sciences has no general foreign language requirement. Proficiency in one or more foreign languages is required in many of our degree programs; please consult the individual program listings for specific requirements.

Thesis or Comprehensive Examination A thesis or a comprehensive examination may be required, as determined by the department or division of major study.


Time Limit The program shall be completed within three years after the first registration for study leading to the MA degree.

General Requirements for the PhD

Course Requirements for postbachelor’s and post-master’s degree programs are as follows:

Postbachelor’s Candidates without a master’s degree or its equivalent are required to complete a minimum of 16 graduate-level semester courses (64 credits) or the equivalent. Specific requirements relative to the selection of courses, seminars, and research or directed study will be determined for each student by the department or division in the field of concentration. Note that each student who has been awarded a Teaching Fellowship must register for a 2-credit teaching course. Credits for this course do not count toward degree requirements, but appear on the transcript as evidence of instruction and evaluation in teaching.

Normally, no more than four courses may be taken concurrently. Each student must register for at least one course each semester until completion of all departmental course requirements unless granted an authorized leave of absence. The number of courses that may be transferred to a postbachelor’s program is explained in more detail in the Transfer of Credit section of this site.

Post-master’s Candidates with a master’s degree or its equivalent are required to complete the equivalent of a minimum of eight graduate-level semester courses (32 credits). Specific requirements relative to the selection of courses, seminars, and research or directed study will be determined for each student by the department or division in his or her field of concentration. Normally, no more than four courses may be taken concurrently, and each student must register for at least one course each semester until completion of all departmental course requirements unless granted an authorized leave of absence. Regulations regarding transfer of credit to a post-master’s program are explained in more detail in the Transfer of Credit section of this site.

Continuing Registration

See Registration and Leave of Absence sections.

Residency Requirement Each student must satisfy a residency requirement of a minimum of two consecutive regular semesters of full-time graduate study at Boston University. Full-time study in this context is full-time commitment to the discipline as determined by the department. Without necessarily implying full-time course enrollment, this commitment permits access to libraries, laboratories, instructional staff, and other academic facilities of the University, including the department of concentration.

Doctoral students holding appointments as teaching fellows or research assistants are considered full-time students for purposes of the residency requirement provided that the time beyond that required by their appointments is devoted fully to their graduate program. In order to graduate, students must be registered part or full time in the semester or summer term in which they complete degree requirements, as well as in the preceding semester.

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Language Requirement The Graduate School of Arts and Sciences has no general foreign language requirement. Proficiency in one or more foreign languages is required in many of our degree programs; please consult the individual program listings for specific requirements.

Qualifying Examination All students shall demonstrate mastery of their major fields in special examinations set by the major department. All parts of the qualifying examination must be passed before the dissertation prospectus or outline will be accepted by the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences.

PhD Candidacy A student in a Graduate School of Arts and Sciences PhD program will be accepted to PhD candidacy upon successful completion of such qualifying examinations as are designated by the department. At that time, the department will notify the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, which will formally accept the student to PhD candidacy. The maximum period allowable between matriculation and acceptance to PhD candidacy is established by the individual department. Once entered, a PhD candidacy will expire on its fifth anniversary and after such time will be renewed only if the student requalifies for candidacy as determined by the department and the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. In no instance will a student who is not a PhD candidate be allowed to defend a completed PhD dissertation.

Dissertation Candidates shall demonstrate their abilities for independent study in dissertations representing original research or creative scholarship.

Dissertation Prospectus After completing coursework, language requirements, and the qualifying examinations, a student proposes a dissertation topic and asks the department to identify first and second (and in some departments third) readers for the dissertation. The first reader will be a member of the student’s department, except by special arrangement with the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. The dissertation prospectus should be completed before the more extensive phase of dissertation research is undertaken. The department is responsible for reviewing and evaluating a draft prospectus. The review is followed by revision and the production of a final draft, which must be approved by the readers, the director of graduate studies, and the chairman. The approved prospectus is submitted to the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences Office on or before the date specified in the GRS Graduation Calendar. Although the length of the prospectus will vary from discipline to discipline, it cannot exceed twenty double-spaced (or ten single-spaced) pages, not including bibliography. Specific procedures for meeting the general guidelines described here vary from department to department.

Abstract and Final Oral Examination Students undergo final oral examinations in which they defend their dissertations as valuable contributions to knowledge in their fields and demonstrate a mastery of their fields of specialization in relation to their dissertations. The examining committee is composed of five or more Graduate School of Arts and Sciences faculty members, at least two of whom are from the student’s department. By special appointment, approved by the dean of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, examiners may be from outside the School itself. The membership of the committee must be approved by the chairman or the director of graduate studies. Before the final oral examination can be scheduled, the candidate must obtain initial approval of a dissertation abstract from the readers, the director of graduate studies, and the chairman. The abstract, which cannot exceed 350 words in length, describes the thesis, methods, and general content of the dissertation. The abstract must be submitted to the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences Office at least three weeks before the examination. Two weeks before the examination, the schedule of the examination is due in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences Office, together with fourteen copies of the approved abstract. Students are responsible for arranging an examination date with the department and for requesting that the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences schedule the examination. Students should consult their departments and the GRS Graduation Calendar about specific procedures and dates pertaining to abstracts and examinations. General instructions concerning the scheduling of examinations and the submission of abstracts are available from the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences Office.

Time Limit The postbachelor’s program must be completed within seven years after the first registration for doctoral study. The post-master’s program must be completed within five years after the first registration for the doctoral program.

Advisor

A candidate for the MA or PhD degree is required to have as an advisor a member of the graduate faculty in the department of the major field. If an advisor is not assigned in advance of registration, the student should consult the departmental chairman about assignment procedures.

Directed Study or Research

Students may register for directed study or research with approval of the faculty member concerned. Passing in Graduate School of Arts and Sciences directed study and research courses at the 900 level may be indicated by the grade of P.  The minimum credit is one-half a semester course (2 credits). A candidate for the MA degree may register for not more than a total of three semester courses in directed study research or practicum. A candidate for the PhD degree may not register for more than three such courses in a single semester.

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Transfer of Credit

Graduate-level courses in other accredited graduate schools or in other Schools or Colleges of Boston University not used toward the awarding of any other degree may be transferred on recommendation of the major advisor and the chairman of the department with the approval of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. Credit for work to be taken concurrently with studies in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences must be approved before registration for such courses; all such courses must have been taken for a letter grade (not pass/fail). No transfer of credit for courses taken before the senior year of college or from correspondence or extension schools will be accepted. Petitions for credits for transfer are available in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences Office.

MA degree program No more than two courses may be transferred from other universities unless a department requires more than eight semester courses. A student may transfer additional courses corresponding to that number required in excess of the eight.

Postbachelor’s PhD program No more than four courses may be transferred from other universities. Of these, only two may be credited toward a master’s degree. If a department requires more than the minimum of 16 semester courses, a student may transfer an additional number of courses corresponding to that number required in excess of the 16.

Post-master’s PhD program No courses may be transferred from other universities unless a department requires more than the minimum of eight semester courses. A student may transfer the number of courses corresponding to that number required in excess of the eight.

Summer Term

Certain courses taken during the Summer Term at Boston University may be credited toward the MA and PhD degrees if prior approval is obtained from the candidate’s major department. The number of credits that can be earned in one session is limited to six. Graduate School of Arts and Sciences students who do not wish to enroll for courses but wish to complete a departmental requirement such as a language, comprehensive, qualifying, or dissertation examination or to use the University facilities must register as continuing students for one Summer Term and pay the Continuing Student Fee.

Students in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences who are engaged during the summer in full-time research as an essential component of their graduate degree programs are eligible for Summer Research registration status. This is a no-cost mechanism whereby graduate students who are engaged in academic research during the summer can be appropriately registered as students for purposes of loan eligibility and tax considerations. Students seeking Summer Research status should complete Summer Research Status Registration Forms, obtain appropriate signatures, and submit the forms to their Departments for forwarding to the Graduate School Records Office. This registration will not generate a tuition charge. The Form includes a certification of full-time study that will document the student’s commitment to research during the summer. By signing the forms, the Department vouches that the students will be doing research full time for the twelve weeks of the Summer I and Summer II terms. GRS will enter the registration on the students’ records. Forms should be submitted before the beginning of the Summer II term. The form is available from the GRS website at Summer Research Registration. Summer Research status is available only for students continuing their studies in the Fall. This status does not satisfy the mandatory registration for the final two semesters during which degree requirements are completed.

Grades and Academic Standing

The Graduate School of Arts and Sciences uses a system of letter grades for evaluating coursework, as shown in the following chart.

A student with an outstanding balance due the Office of Student Accounting Services will not receive a grade report, transcript, or diploma until payment has been made.

Incomplete Coursework, Failing Grades, and Grade Changes

When the work of a course has not been completed within the semester of registration, the grade of I is used. This automatically becomes a permanent I (unsatisfactory grade) unless the coursework is completed within the following calendar year. Grades of I and C+ or lower are interpreted as failures. A student receiving such grades in more than two semester courses (or more than a total of 8 credit hours) is liable to be terminated. Grades, including incompletes, may not be changed after a period of one year from the time the original grade is recorded.

Suspension or Dismissal

Boston University, through its various faculties or appropriate committees, may suspend or dismiss any student from the University for reasons of scholarship, aptitude, or conduct.

Petitions

In presenting any request to the faculty or to its several committees, students will use the prescribed form, obtainable at the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences Office.

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Withdrawal and Leave of Absence

Normally, students must register for each regular semester until completion of all degree requirements. Upon written request to the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, a student will be allowed up to two semesters of leave of absence without committee consideration. Leaves of absence beyond two semesters may be granted in cases of substantiated illness, one-semester maternity or paternity leave, or military service. In exceptional cases, the student should petition the Associate Dean of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences with approval of the chairman of the department or division of concentration.

A student who files for a leave of absence from the University before classes start is eligible to receive full credit of tuition and fees. Students should refer to the Withdrawals and Refunds section of this site for the refund schedule after the beginning of classes. A student who is on leave and who has borrowed federal and/or private loans may be required to begin repayment while on leave. If leave is granted, a certificate of authorized leave of absence is issued and a copy included in the student’s record.

The period of authorized leave of absence is counted as a part of the time allowed for completion of degree requirements. Students may not complete any degree requirements in a semester for which they have been granted leave of absence. Students must be registered in the semester in which the degree requirements are completed, as well as in the preceding semester.

Students who wish to withdraw from the University must submit their requests in writing to the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences Records Office. A request for a withdrawal or leave of absence is effective on the day it is received in the appropriate office; charges are canceled in accordance with the University’s published refund schedule, based on the effective date of the student’s leave of absence or withdrawal. Mere absence from class does not reduce financial obligations or guarantee that final grades will not be recorded.

Absence for Religious Reasons

According to Chapter 151C of the General Laws, Commonwealth of Massachusetts, any student in an educational or vocational training institution, other than a religious or denominational educational or vocational training institution, who is unable, because of his or her religious beliefs, to attend classes or to participate in any examination, study, or work requirements on a particular day, shall be excused from any such examination or study or work requirement, and shall be provided with an opportunity to make up such examination, study, or work requirement that may have been missed because of such absence on any particular day; provided, however, that such makeup examination or work shall not create an unreasonable burden upon such school. No fees of any kind shall be charged by the institution for making available to the said students such opportunity. No adverse or prejudicial effects shall result to students because of their availing themselves of the provisions of this section.

Readmission to a Degree Program

Students applying for readmission to the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences will be subject to the following regulations: a minimum of two years must elapse from the time of withdrawal or termination until enrollment; reapplication must be accompanied by an application fee; if readmitted, the student may be asked to retake examinations or demonstrate knowledge in current issues in the field of specialization; readmitted students will be subject to the rules and regulations set forth in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences Bulletin at the time of readmission; students who have outstanding financial obligations to the University at the time of withdrawal or termination will be required to meet those obligations as a condition of readmission; at the time of readmission, the student must provide a detailed schedule of plans for completing the remaining degree requirements within specific time limits.

Registration

An officially registered student is one who has selected courses by telephone registration (TelReg) or submitted course selections, web registration (WebReg), on a registration form and who has paid or settled all charges.

Candidates for admission may not register until they receive a formal statement of acceptance. Registration is conducted under the direction of the Office of the University Registrar. Graduate students should consult the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences Office, 705 Commonwealth Avenue, for detailed instruction concerning the procedure to be followed during the announced registration period. Students must be registered for any regular semester or Summer Term during which a degree requirement is completed or University facilities are used.

A student who, in any semester, fails to register and has not been granted an official leave of absence will be considered a continuing student and will be charged the usual fee for such status. Failure to register for two consecutive regular semesters without having been granted an authorized leave of absence may result in termination of degree status.

Registration Deadlines A student in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences should complete the course selection process by May for the fall semester and December for the spring semester. The deadline for payment/settlement of a student’s account appears in The Guide published by the Office of Student Accounting Services. A new graduate student usually completes registration during the week prior to the beginning of classes. Late fees are charged to students who do not register or settle their tuition account during the official period. Students may not register later than one week after the start of classes without written approval from their School or College. Students who are not registered by the deadline will have their financial assistance offers revoked.

Full-Time Students

By enrollment A student enrolled in three to four-and-a-half courses (12 to 18 credits) will be considered full-time and will be charged full tuition and fees. A student may register for more than four courses (16 credits) only with approval of the Committee on Academic Standards.

By certification A student registered for fewer than three courses or 12 credits (a minimum of one course must be taken until all coursework requirements have been completed) but engaged otherwise in full-time study, research, or teaching pertinent to the completion of degree requirements or to gaining competence in the field of study, may be certified as a full-time student. Such a student must pay tuition on a per-course basis and full-time fees. A student desiring full-time certification must submit to the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, during the official registration period, a completed full-time certification form approved by the advisor and department chairman or director of graduate studies.

As teaching fellows and research assistants Students holding regular appointments as teaching fellows or research assistants are considered full-time if they are enrolled in two or more courses. Teaching fellows or research assistants taking fewer than two courses may, if appropriate, be designated as full-time by certification.

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Part-Time Students All part-time students who are candidates for degrees must register each regular semester for no less than one semester course until all departmental course requirements are completed. Continuing students (see below) may register for less than one 4-credit course.

Continuing Student Status MA and PhD candidates who have completed all departmental course requirements must register each subsequent regular semester for continuing student status until all requirements for the degree have been completed. Payment of the Continuing Student Fee each semester entitles the student to appropriate access to and use of the libraries, research laboratories, academic staff, and other academic facilities of the University for the purpose of completing such requirements as examinations, research, and thesis or dissertation work. Continuing students who are PhD candidates are entitled to officially audit one course each semester without further tuition charge. Language and physical education courses, studio courses, and courses with laboratories may not be audited.

Registration and payment of regular tuition and fees for at least one course exempts the student from the Continuing Student Fee. Continuing students may also qualify as full time according to the above regulations. Normal part- and full-time fees are also applicable.

Cross-Registration

Within Boston University: Non-Arts and­Sciences Courses A student in an MA degree program normally may not register for more than one graduate-level semester course given by a School or College at Boston University other than the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences or the College of Arts and Sciences, unless the courses are listed in this bulletin. A student in a PhD degree program may not register for more than two such courses. All courses must be approved by the student’s major advisor and department.

With Other Academic Institutions Graduate School of Arts and Sciences students who wish to cross-register for a graduate course at another academic institution should obtain a cross-registration form from the Office of the University Registrar, 881 Commonwealth Avenue. Students must consult with their advisors, receive advisor approval on the form, and receive approval from the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences Office. They must then present the form to the graduate school registrar of the host institution.

During a given academic year, a student is permitted to cross-register only once. Cross-registrants should expect to satisfy all prerequisites and requirements for courses as indicated by the host institution. Tuition for such courses is charged at Boston University rates in the usual manner.

Adding or Dropping a Course

Students wishing to change their courses must fill out the appropriate form at the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences Office, obtain their advisor’s signature, and return the completed form to the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences Office. A request for late registration in courses cannot ordinarly be granted after the first full week of classes.

No course may be added after the first two weeks of class.

A course dropped during the first five weeks of class will not appear on the student’s permanent record. After the first five weeks, a dropped course will appear on the student’s record as W, and the student will be charged for the course. No course may be dropped after the eighth week of class. Graduate School financial aid will not cover the cost of a course from which a student has officially withdrawn.

Students who register for any course are held responsible for its completion unless they officially withdraw by the deadline date or change to the status of auditor within the first five weeks of class.

Auditing Courses

An auditor is a student who attends a class to acquire knowledge, but not to earn credits or a grade. Audited courses do not count toward completing degree requirements. An auditor may not change his or her status after the fifth week of classes for standard courses. Auditors must attend classes regularly, complete assigned reading, and participate in discussions, but they are excused from examinations.

Auditors are admitted to a course on a space-available basis and in accordance with the rules of the School or College offering the course. Auditors are subject to the full tuition and fees of the course. Graduate School of Arts and Sciences financial aid does not cover the cost of audited courses. Doctoral students who are registered for Continuing Study or for a two-credit course are entitled to officially audit one course each semester without further tuition charge.

Graduation

MA degrees are awarded in September, January, and May. PhD degrees are awarded in January and May. Commencement exercises are held in May only. Students planning to receive their degrees at the May commencement must submit diploma applications by February 1. Students must submit diploma applications by July 1 for September graduation and by November 1 for January graduation. Students in approved dual degree programs must file separate diploma applications with each School. The diploma application is valid only for the graduation date specified; a new application must be filed if the student does not graduate as planned. Diploma applications and copies of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences regulations on the preparation of theses and dissertations are available in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences Office.

Transcripts

Current students may order transcripts online through the “Transcript Preview and Ordering” option on the Student Link; there is a $3 fee, payable by credit card, for each official transcript ordered online. In all other cases, requests for official transcripts must be made in writing, either by letter or by completing a Transcript Request form available online at www.bu.edu/reg or at the Office of the University Registrar. Please include the following information: full name, including any former names; signature; Boston University ID number or Social Security number; Schools attended and dates; degrees awarded; and complete addresses of transcript destinations. The fee is $5 for each transcript requested in writing, and payment must accompany the request. Processing time for transcript requests is about two business days. The Registrar’s Office does not accept faxed transcript requests. Transcripts can be sent by DHL for an additional $14 per destination to locations within the continental United States. For other destinations, please contact the Transcript Department for the cost. Unofficial transcripts can be obtained in person at the Registrar’s Office during regular business hours. There is no charge for unofficial transcripts. A valid photo ID is required to obtain unofficial and official transcripts if the request is made in person at the Registrar’s Office. Please note that the Registrar’s Office does not mail unofficial transcripts.

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Identification Cards and Numbers

Terrier cards are issued by the Terrier Card Office and the Office of the University Registrar. Students are assigned an ID number by the University.

A student is entitled to a new card only when there are changes to the information on the card. A fee is charged for replacing a lost card. Replacement cards are issued at the Terrier Card Office and the Office of the University Registrar.

Name Changes or Corrections

Misspelled names on official University documents can be corrected by presenting a current driver’s license or other form of identification to the University Registrar’s Office


Currently enrolled students who wish to change their names must present sufficient reason and identification to the University Registrar’s Office. Upon approval, the student will be asked to complete a Name Change form.

For students who are no longer registered or who have graduated, legal documentation (e.g., a marriage license or court order) must be submitted to the University Registrar’s Office along with the request for the change.

Address Changes

Students must notify the University of any local or home address changes. To do this, eligible students may update this information on the Student Link or complete a Personal Data Change form, available from the student’s School or College, the University Information Center, or the Office of the University Registrar. Changes in residence hall addresses are the responsibility of the Housing Office. If the student withdraws from University housing but remains enrolled at the University, the student must update his or her local address.

Sexual Harassment Policy

Boston University is committed to the principle that no employee, student, or applicant for employment or admission should be subject to sexual harassment. The University strives to provide workplaces and learning environments that promote equal opportunity and are free from illegal discriminatory practices, including sexual harassment.

Sexual harassment is a violation of federal and state laws and University policy, as is retaliation against any individual who in good faith files a complaint of sexual harassment or cooperates in the investigation of such a complaint. Upon receipt of a complaint of sexual harassment or retaliation, Boston University will undertake a fair and thorough investigation, with due regard for the rights of all parties. Every reasonable effort will be made to protect the confidentiality of the parties during the investigation. After an investigation, any person who is found to have sexually harassed or retaliated against another will be subject to discipline, up to and including termination of employment and, if a student, expulsion from Boston University.

Definition of Sexual Harassment Sexual harassment is defined as sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and any other verbal or physical contact of a sexual nature, whether intentional or unintentional, where:

• an individual’s submission to or rejection of the conduct is made, either explicitly or implicitly, a term or condition of employment or of status in a course, program or activity, or is used as a basis for an employment or academic decision; or,
• the conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s work performance, academic performance, or educational experience, or of creating an intimidating, hostile, humiliating or offensive working, educational or living environment.

Examples of Conduct Which May Constitute Sexual Harassment

It is not possible to list all circumstances that might constitute sexual harassment. In general, sexual harassment encompasses any sexually related conduct which causes others discomfort, embarrassment, or humiliation, and any harassing conduct, sexually related or otherwise, directed toward an individual because of that individual’s sex. Such conduct is subject to this policy whenever it occurs in a context related to the employment or academic environments, or if it is imposed upon an individual by virtue of an employment or academic relationship.

A determination of whether conduct constitutes sexual harassment is dependent upon the totality of the circumstances, including the pervasiveness or severity of the conduct.

The Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination lists the following as examples of conduct which may constitute sexual harassment:

• Unwelcome sexual advances—whether they involve physical touching or not;
• Sexual epithets, jokes, written or oral references to sexual conduct, gossip regarding one’s sex life; comment on an individual’s body; comment about an individual’s sexual activity, deficiencies, or prowess;
• Displaying sexually suggestive objects, pictures or cartoons;
• Unwelcome leering, whistling, brushing against the body, sexual gestures, or suggestive or insulting comments;
• Inquiries into one’s sexual experiences; and
• Discussion of one’s sexual activities.

In order to constitute sexual harassment, conduct must be unwelcome. Conduct is unwelcome when the person being harassed does not solicit or invite it and regards it as undesirable or offensive. The fact that a person may accept the conduct does not mean that he or she welcomes it.

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As a university, Boston University, its employees and students also must be aware of the need for freedom of inquiry and openness of discussion in its educational and research programs, and must strive to create and maintain an atmosphere of intellectual seriousness and mutual tolerance in which these essential features of academic life can thrive. No university can or should guarantee that every idea expressed in its classrooms or laboratories will be inoffensive to all; pursued seriously, education and scholarship necessarily entail raising questions about received opinions and conventional interpretations. Boston University does guarantee, however, that credible accusations of inappropriate sexual remarks or actions will be investigated promptly, thoroughly, and fairly.

Complaints

If you have questions or concerns about sexual harassment, or if you wish to file a complaint of sexual harassment, you are strongly encouraged to contact immediately the appropriate office listed below:

Faculty, staff or applicants for employment:Contact the Office of Equal Opportunity, 25 Buick Street, 617-353-9286. Medical campus employees and applicants may also contact the Medical Campus Office of Human Resources, 560 Harrison Avenue, Room 401, 617-638-4610.

Students: Contact the Office of the Dean of Students, 775 Commonwealth Avenue, 617-353-4126, or the Office of Equal Opportunity, 25 Buick Street, 617-353-9286. Students living in campus residences may also contact their local hall or area office.

Applicants for admission: Contact the Office of Equal Opportunity, 25 Buick Street, 617-353-9286.

Employees covered by a collective bargaining agreement: Specific provisions of the agreement may provide additional options for addressing a sexual harassment complaint.

Some of the Schools and Colleges at Boston University have also established their own procedures for handling issues of sexual harassment. Faculty, students and staff who are members of academic units may contact the office of their dean to determine whether to use these complaint procedures.

Nothing in this policy is intended to limit the authority of Boston University to take appropriate disciplinary action against any individual who violates University rules or policies, whether or not the conduct constitutes sexual harassment under law or University policy.

State and Federal Agencies

In addition to the above, you may file a formal complaint with the government agencies listed below:

Faculty, staff, applicants for employment, or students:

Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination
One Ashburton Place, Room 601
Boston, Massachusetts 02108
617-727-3990

Faculty, staff or applicants for employment:

United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
John F. Kennedy Building
475 Government Center
Boston, Massachusetts 02203
617-565-3200

Students, applicants for admission, faculty, staff, or applicants for employment:

Office for Civil Rights
U. S. Department of Education
33 Arch Street, Suite 900
Boston, Massachusetts 02110
617-289-0111

Administrative Policies Relating to Federal Guidelines

Veterans Information In cooperation with the Veterans Administration, the University participates in numerous veterans benefits programs, including educational assistance, Work-Study, rehabilitation, deferred payment, and tutorial programs.

Any student who is eligible for veterans benefits or would like more information about  VA rules and veterans programs should contact the Boston University Office of the University Registrar, 881 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02215; 617-353-3678.

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act ensures confidentiality of student educational records and restricts disclosure to or access by third parties, except as authorized by law. Parents of dependent students, as defined in Section 152 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, are accorded full access by the University to their dependents’ educational records, with certain exceptions, and they may receive copies of their dependents’ grade reports each semester from the Office of the University Registrar. The University assumes that its undergraduate students are financially dependent unless a parent or the student informs the University Access Officer in the Office of the University Registrar that the student is financially independent. Students may provide this notification to the Access Officer via the Financially Independent Student form, a copy of which may be secured from the Office of the University Registrar.

Students have the right to inspect their educational records, with certain exceptions. If they believe these records are inaccurate, they may request an amendment and, if denied, have the right to a hearing and to place a letter of disagreement in their file if the outcome of that hearing is negative. Students are eligible under the Act to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education Family Policy and Regulations Office, Federal Office Building Number 6, Room 3021, 400 Maryland Ave., S.W., Washington, DC 20202, if they believe Boston University failed to comply with the requirements of the Act.

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The University’s policies and procedures for implementation of this Act are enumerated in the Notification of Student Rights Regarding Educational Records, copies of which are available to students at the Office of the University Registrar, 881 Commonwealth Avenue, Second Floor, Boston, MA 02215.

The University does not release personally identifiable information contained in student educational records except as authorized by law. Boston University has designated certain types of personally identifiable information as “directory information.” These include the student’s name; local or residence hall address, e-mail address; and primary phone number; College of registration; degree program and major and minor; dates of attendance; part- or full-time status; degrees, honors, and awards received; and hometown for press releases. Students may restrict release of this information if they wish, and this data will not be released by the University except as authorized by law.

The Student Activities Office, (775 Commonwealth Avenue, Fourth Floor) and the Athletics Department (285 Babcock Street) may release or publish personally identifiable information on students who participate in officially recognized activities and sports. If students wish to restrict release and/or publication of this information, they should contact the Student Activities Office and the Athletics Department directly.

Students are informed of their rights under this law by the University Registrar. The parents of incoming freshmen and transfer students each year are informed of their rights under this law, and how to exercise them, by the President.

Equal Opportunity Policy Boston University prohibits discrimination against any individual on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, marital, parental, or veteran status. This policy extends to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities, including admissions, financial assistance, employment, housing, athletics, and educational programs. Boston University recognizes that nondiscrimination does not ensure that equal opportunity is a reality. The University therefore will continue to take affirmative action to promote equal opportunity for all students, applicants, and employees. Inquiries regarding the application of this policy should be addressed to the Associate  Vice President for Human Resources, 25 Buick Street, Boston, MA 02215; 617-353-4477.

Disability Accommodation Boston University provides reasonable accommodations to eligible individuals with disabilities in conformance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Requests for disability accommodations must be made in a timely fashion to the Office of Disability Services, 19 Deerfield Street, Boston, MA 02215; 617-353-3658 (Voice/TTY). Students seeking accommodations must submit appropriate medical documentation and comply with the policies and procedures of the Office of Disability Services.

Complaint Procedures in Cases of Alleged Unlawful Discrimination or Harassment

Boston University prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, ethnic origin, age, sex, disability, sexual orientation or other unlawful basis. The goal of the procedures outlined below is to ensure that non-discrimination is a reality at Boston University and that no person in the University community is subjected to such unlawful conduct. All members of the University community can assist in the furtherance of this goal by ensuring that complaints of discrimination are promptly directed to the departments or individuals who have been designated to receive them, in accordance with these procedures.

Any employee, student or applicant for employment or admission, who believes that he or she has been subjected to any form of unlawful discrimination may make a complaint. Unlawful discrimination includes sexual harassment as well as harassment based on an individual’s membership in any other legally protected category. Boston University will conduct a fair and impartial investigation of all such complaints, with due regard for the rights of all parties. Retaliation against any individual who has made a complaint of discrimination, or who has cooperated in the investigation of such a complaint, is unlawful and in violation of Boston University policy. The purpose of these procedures is to ensure that all complaints of discrimination are thoroughly and fairly investigated by authorized University officials who have the necessary expertise.

Any complaint of discrimination should be referred to one of the Schools, departments, or individuals who are responsible for receiving or investigating such complaints. Any employee who receives a complaint but who is not specifically designated to formally handle such a complaint is responsible for directing the complainant or otherwise referring the complaint to the appropriate individual. All complaints, either verbal or written, must be referred to the appropriate office, as set forth below.

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Initiating a Complaint

The process outlined in this section applies to all complaints of discrimination, except those brought by students on the basis of disability. Students who wish to file a complaint alleging discrimination based on disability should file with the Office of Disability Services, in accordance with the procedures set forth in the last section of this document.

An employee, student or applicant for employment or admission who believes that unlawful discrimination has occurred may initiate a complaint either by meeting with the appropriate individual in one of the offices listed below, or by submitting a written complaint to that individual or office. The information provided in the complaint should be as specific as possible regarding the circumstances that precipitated the complaint. The complaint should include the dates and places of the incidents at issue, the individuals involved, the names of any witnesses, any efforts to resolve the matter informally and their results, and any other pertinent information.

Offices in Which a Complaint of Discrimination may be Initiated

There are a variety of offices available to receive complaints from students, faculty, and staff who believe they have been subjected to unlawful discrimination.

Complaints by Students Students may initiate a complaint by speaking to the designated individual in the Dean’s Office of the student’s School or College, by speaking to a representative in the Office of the Dean of Students, or by contacting the Office of Equal Opportunity.

Complaints by Members of the Faculty or Staff Faculty or Staff may initiate a complaint by contacting the Office of Equal Opportunity, or by contacting the Office of Human Resources. Employees in academic units may also initiate a complaint with the designated individual in the Dean’s Office. Employees covered by a collective bargaining agreement may have additional options under that agreement for addressing complaints.

Complaints from applicants for employment or admission, visitors, or other non-affiliated individualsmay be initiated in the Office of Equal Opportunity.

Complaints from students, faculty or staff at off-site locations Any individual at an off-site location, such as Tyngsboro, Washington, D.C., overseas programs, etc., may bring a complaint to any of the above offices as appropriate, or to the on-site Director of the program.

The address and phone number for each of these offices is listed at the end of this document. Names of the designated individuals in the Dean’s Offices of the Schools and Colleges may be obtained from the Dean’s Office or the Office of Equal Opportunity.


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Investigation and Resolution of Complaints

The individuals and offices available to receive complaints, noted above, were selected to give all members of the University community the opportunity to initiate a complaint in a place in which they will feel comfortable doing so. These individuals and offices have the responsibility, after speaking with the complainant and/or reviewing a written complaint, to ensure that the complaint is directed to the proper office or individual for investigation.

The University has designated specific offices and individuals to investigate complaints of unlawful discrimination. Depending upon whether the individual accused of engaging in discrimination is a student, a member of the faculty, or a member of the staff, the investigation will be conducted by the designated office or individual with the appropriate expertise and jurisdiction to do so. The offices and individuals responsible for investigating complaints of discrimination are set forth below. In any particular case, the Provost or the Executive Vice President may designate which office or individual will investigate a complaint. The University will ensure that no person who is the subject of a complaint will be assigned to investigate that complaint. The Office of Equal Opportunity, if it is not conducting the investigation, and/or the Office of the General Counsel will provide advice or assistance to the investigation process.

The investigation may involve meeting with the parties, interviewing witnesses, requesting written statements from the parties, informing the person whose actions are the subject of the complaint of the allegations and/or providing to that person a copy of the complainant’s statement, and/or making any other appropriate inquiries. Before any adverse determination is made, the individual whose actions are the subject of the complaint will be informed as to the nature of the complaint, and will have the opportunity to respond.

The investigation should be completed promptly so that a decision can be rendered within 45 days of receipt of the complaint. If this is not possible, the complainant will be informed of the status of the investigation within 45 days.

A confidential record of all complaints, including their disposition, will be maintained by the investigating unit. The Office of Equal Opportunity will be informed of, and maintain a confidential record of, the nature of all complaints of discrimination investigated by other units, the names of complaining parties and respondents, and the final disposition of all complaints.

Complaints Against Students The person who receives a complaint against a student will generally refer the matter for investigation to the Office of the Dean of Students, though if a School or College has an established internal process for investigation of complaints it receives against its students, the Dean of that School or College will decide if the complaint will be investigated in accordance with that process or by the Office of the Dean of Students. The investigating office will take any action that might be appropriate based on the results of the investigation, consistent with the applicable provisions in the Code of Student Responsibilities or the disciplinary procedures of the School or College.

Complaints Against Faculty Members The person who receives a complaint against a member of the faculty will refer the matter to the Director of Equal Opportunity, who will inform the Dean of the faculty member’s School or College. If the School or College has an established internal process for investigation of complaints against faculty, the Dean of that School or College will decide if the complaint will be investigated in accordance with that process or by the Director of Equal Opportunity in consultation with the Dean or the Dean’s designee. If the complaint also involves academic matters such as grades, curriculum, etc., the investigator will ensure that those matters are addressed by the appropriate officials within the School or College. The Dean of the School or College will be informed of the findings of the investigation and will determine whether further action is appropriate. Any action involving faculty will be consistent with the procedures outlined in the Faculty Handbook.

Complaints Against Staff Members The person who receives a complaint against a member of the staff will refer the matter for investigation to the Director of Equal Opportunity, who will inform the appropriate Dean or administrative head and the Office of Human Resources. The complaint will generally be investigated by the Director of Equal Opportunity. The Director of Equal Opportunity (or other designated investigator) will provide findings, in writing, to the Dean or administrative head, who will determine what action, if any, is appropriate. Action involving staff will be consistent with any applicable collective bargaining agreement and University policies.

Confidentiality

Every reasonable effort will be made to protect the privacy and confidentiality of all parties during the investigation, consistent with and subject to the University’s need to investigate the complaint and/or implement decisions made in order to resolve the complaint. It must be understood that in order to permit the University to carry out its obligation to investigate all complaints fairly, and to ensure that non-discrimination is a reality within the University community, no representative of the University is authorized to promise complete confidentiality to any person who possesses information relevant to the investigation of a complaint, including the complainant.

Any individual who requests confidentiality before disclosing a complaint must be informed that because any apparent violation of Boston University Policy must be addressed, complete confidentiality may not be possible. An individual who insists on confidentiality as a condition of disclosing a complaint may be advised of the opportunity to consult with one of the University’s medical or mental health professionals, with whom such matters may be discussed in confidence. However, consulting with these professionals does not constitute the initiation of a complaint. Medical and mental health professionals are not representatives of the University for this purpose and are not authorized to investigate or respond to complaints of discrimination.

Appeals

In the event that the complainant believes that the resolution of the complaint has not rectified the situation, an appeal may be made. The appeal should be filed with the Director of Equal Opportunity. In the case of complaints against students and staff members, the Director of Equal Opportunity will direct the appeal to the appropriate officer of the University for review and disposition. In the case of complaints against faculty, the Director of Equal Opportunity will consult with either the Dean of the School or College in which the faculty member is appointed (if the Dean did not make the decision being appealed) or the Provost to determine the appropriate officer of the University to whom the appeal should be directed.

An individual whose action(s) are the subject of a complaint may appeal adverse action taken as a result of the complaint. Students disciplined under the Code of Student Responsibilities should follow the appeal procedures outlined in that document. Faculty members should follow the procedures in the Faculty Handbook. Other employees should follow the grievance procedures outlined in the Personnel Policy Manual, or their collective bargaining agreement, whichever is appropriate.

These procedures shall constitute the grievance procedure mandated by the regulations implementing Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and, for employees, the grievance procedure mandated by the regulations implementing Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. The procedure for student grievances under Section 504 is set forth in the Student Grievance Procedure In Cases of Alleged Disability Discrimination. The University’s Director of Equal Opportunity, 25 Buick Street, 2nd Floor, tel. 617-353-9286, is the designated coordinator for complaints arising under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and Title VI of the Civil Rights Act. The Director of Disability Services, tel. 617-353-3658, is the designated compliance officer for complaints arising under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

Questions about the University’s Complaint Procedures in Cases of Alleged Unlawful Discrimination or Harassment may be addressed to the Office of Equal Opportunity.

Exceptions to these procedures may be granted by the President, Provost, Executive Vice President, Medical Campus Provost, or the General Counsel.

Offices where complaints may be initiated:

Office of Equal Opportunity
25 Buick St., Boston, MA 02215
617-353-9286

Office of the Dean in the individual’s
School or College

Office of the Dean of Students
775 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, MA 02215
617-353-4126

Office of Human Resources,
Charles River Campus
Employee Relations Representatives
25 Buick St., Boston, MA 02215
617-353-4044

Office of Human Resources,
Medical Campus Director of Personnel
Location: 560 Harrison Ave., Boston, MA
Mailing Address: 715 Albany St., 560,
Boston, MA 02118
617-638-4610

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Student Grievance Procedure in Cases of Alleged Disability Discrimination

Boston University prohibits discrimination against any individual on the basis of physical or mental disability. This policy extends to all rights, privileges, programs and activities, including housing, employment, admissions, financial assistance, educational and athletic programs. It is also the policy of Boston University to provide reasonable accommodations to persons with disabilities unless such accommodations would impose an undue burden or fundamental alteration to the program in question. The purpose of these procedures is to ensure that all complaints of discrimination based on disability are thoroughly and fairly investigated by the authorized units of the University. Boston University will conduct a fair and impartial investigation of all allegations of discrimination, with due regard for the rights of all parties. Retaliation against any individual who has filed a complaint of discrimination, or who has cooperated in the investigation of such a complaint, is unlawful and in violation of Boston University policy.

When a student believes that he or she has been discriminated against on the basis of disability, he or she may file, in writing a formal grievance with the Director of the Office of Disability Services, who is the University’s compliance officer for Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. The statement should be as specific as possible regarding the actions(s) or inaction(s) that precipitated the grievance: date, place, persons involved, efforts made to settle the matter informally, and the remedy sought.

If a student with a grievance alleging disability discrimination is also employed by the University, and the grievance arises out of the student’s employment, the grievance may be filed under the University’s Complaint Procedures in Cases of Alleged Unlawful Discrimination or Harassment. If the Director of Disability Services receives a grievance which appears to allege disability discrimination arising out of a student’s employment, the grievance may be referred to the appropriate office to be handled under the policy applicable to employees.

Where the grievance arises out of a decision made by the Office of Disability Services regarding a student’s eligibility for academic or other accommodations, the grievance will be forwarded for investigation to the Provost. Grievances otherwise involving academic matters, for example, cases in which grades are disputed, will also be forwarded to the Provost, who will determine which office(s) should conduct the investigation. Otherwise, the Director of Disability Services shall investigate the matters set forth in the written grievance. In conducting this investigation, the investigator may forward a copy of the grievance statement to the persons whose actions (or inactions) are the subject of the grievance, and may request a written response from appropriate individuals in the University. The investigator may also choose to interview witnesses, to meet with concerned parties, to receive oral or written statements, and to make other appropriate inquiries.

After completing the investigation, the investigator will forward a copy of a report and recommendation to the appropriate University official. If the complaint arises out of an academic unit, the report will be forwarded to the dean of the appropriate School or College, unless he is the subject of the grievance. In such cases, the report will be sent to the Provost. If the complaint arises from a nonacademic unit, the report will be forwarded to the administrative head of the unit, unless he is the subject of the grievance. In such cases, the report will be forwarded to the Dean of Students, who will forward it to the appropriate officer of the University.

Within forty-five (45) days of the filing of the grievance, the Provost, dean, or administrative head will render a decision on the merits of the student’s complaint. If resolution is not possible within forty-five (45) days, the Provost, dean, or administrative head shall inform the student of the status of the investigation.

Copies of the decision by the Provost, dean, or administrative head will be sent to the student, the Provost (when not issued by him), and the Director of Disability Services. A copy may also be sent to the department and/or the persons whose actions (or inactions) are the subject of the grievance, as appropriate.

In the event that the student is not satisfied with the resolution of the grievance, an appeal may be made. The appeal should be filed with the Office of Disability Services, who will direct the appeal and all appropriate records to the appropriate office of the University for review and disposition.

Copies of the decision will be maintained in the Office of the Provost and the Office of Disability Services.

These procedures shall constitute the grievance procedure mandated by regulations implementing Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.

Questions about the University’s Student Grievance Procedures in Cases of Alleged Disability Discrimination should be addressed to the Office of Disability Services.

Exceptions to these procedures may be granted by the President, University Provost, Executive Vice President, Medical Campus Provost, or the General Counsel.

Student Retention Information Statistics for the student retention rate at Boston University are available on request from Institutional Research, 25 Buick Street, in accordance with the Education Amendments of 1976, Section 493A.

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Published by Trustees of Boston University
One Sherborn Street
Boston, MA 02215

31 October 2007
Boston University
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