Hazing Prevention & Reporting
Being at BU is about trying new things and making friends from across the globe. We want you to join groups, create networks, and enjoy common experiences.
However, no group or fellow student should ever put you at risk, physically or emotionally, as a condition for participation in a group or opportunity. Hazing isn’t just against the BU Code of Student Responsibilities—it’s against Massachusetts law.
It might be hazing if…
If you feel uncomfortable, or are being forced to do something you don’t want to do in order to gain or maintain membership in a group, you may be being hazed.
Here are some examples of activities that may constitute hazing. If a group is making you:
- Stay up for days straight
- Spend long hours exposed to the elements
- Consume an excessive amount of alcohol
- Daring you to do something dangerous
- Isolating you from others
- Harassing you or asking you to harass someone
Report hazing now.
If it’s happening to you, if you’re ordered to do it to someone else, or if you see it happening to friends or classmates, please report it. If the hazing or situation is life threatening or violent, call the Boston University Police immediately at 617-353-2121. For non-emergencies, you can use the confidential online hazing report form. Your report can be anonymous.
Students accused of hazing will go through the University’s Judicial Process. Organizations accused of hazing may have their University recognition withdrawn.
If you have more questions, please contact the Dean of Students Office (617-353-4126).
University Policy
The University’s interim policy on hazing can be found here.