Policy on Illegal Drugs and Alcohol

Boston University’s campuses and activities are not sanctuaries from federal, state, and local laws. Boston University prohibits the unlawful use, possession, sale, distribution, or manufacture of controlled substances or alcohol on University property or as part of University activities. Boston University’s alcoholic beverage policy is consistent with the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

However, the University’s standards of personal conduct substantially exceed the minimum expectations of civil law and custom. Students found in violation of the University alcohol policy or engaging in misconduct related to the abuse of alcohol, whether on or off campus, will be subject to disciplinary action under the Code of Student Responsibilities as well as to prosecution. Boston University enforces the Massachusetts underage drinking law and state and federal drug laws. The legal drinking age in Massachusetts is twenty-one.

Boston University neither permits nor condones the possession, use, or sale of illegal drugs and narcotics. Violators are subject to University disciplinary procedures, as well as to criminal prosecution under state and federal laws. Dealing in narcotics or illegal drugs anywhere on campus will result in expulsion from the residence system and further disciplinary action by the University. Conviction for drug-related offenses in any jurisdiction may affect a student’s eligibility for federal, state, or University financial aid.

The University falls within federal and state Drug-Free School Zone laws.

Boston University recognizes that alcoholism, drug addiction, and substance abuse may represent illnesses or conditions that require professional counseling, assistance, or treatment. Faculty, students, and staff with problems related to or stemming from alcohol or other substance abuse or dependency are encouraged to make use of the services provided through the University or other resources. However, neither addiction nor substance abuse is an excuse for any member of the University community to violate the rights of others, or to neglect or inadequately handle academic or job-related responsibilities.

The following resources are available at Boston University to address alcohol- and drug-related issues:

• Student Health Services offers drug and alcohol education classes, substance abuse assessments, counseling services, and online student-focused programs, including BASICS (Brief Alcohol Screening and Intervention for College Students) for both alcohol and marijuana, as well as e-CHUG (electronic Check Up to Go and e-TOKE (electronic THC Online Knowledge Experience). For more information about these programs, visit the SHS website, call 617-353-3575, or stop by at 881 Commonwealth Avenue. The SHS website also provides information about additional resources available in the greater Boston area.
• Faculty and staff may contact Faculty & Staff Assistance (617-353-5381) for referrals.
• Violations of drug and liquor laws are reported under the federal Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, and under Massachusetts law.

Standards of Conduct

The unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illegal drugs or alcohol by any student or employee on University property or in conjunction with any University activity is prohibited.

Disciplinary Sanctions

The University will impose disciplinary sanctions on students and employees who violate University standards of conduct. In addition, students or employees who violate public law are subject to criminal prosecution. Conviction may result in fines, imprisonment, and revocation or loss of eligibility to receive federal funding (such as grants and financial assistance) and other privileges.

University-imposed discipline may include sanctions up to and including expulsion of a student or termination of employment, in addition to referral for criminal prosecution. Disciplinary sanctions may include required participation in a treatment, counseling, or other approved rehabilitation program.

Financial Assistance

By federal law, students convicted of drug offenses committed while receiving Title IV federal financial aid may be ineligible for federal financial aid for one or more years from the date of conviction. For additional information, visit the Financial Assistance website.