Frequently Asked Questions: Suspension

Below are some answers to some frequently asked questions regarding suspension. Please note these FAQ’s are provided as a courtesy only. There may be other implications that are not noted in this sheet. Policies and procedures are subject to change. Ultimately it is the responsibility of the student to take care of all issues that arise from their suspension.

What happens if I am suspended?
Students who are suspended may not take classes either here or at any of the campuses of the California State University system during suspension. Suspended students may not utilize privileges or resources that are afforded to enrolled students. In some cases, suspended students may be prohibited from being on campus property. Following suspension, certain conditions might apply to return to campus, such as proof of counseling, completion of certain activities, or the like. A student who is suspended may not run for or hold a student leader or student officer position. 

Does suspension affect my transcript?
Yes. When suspension is under one year, suspension is noted on a student’s transcript during the suspension period, the notation is removed at the conclusion of the suspension, and the disciplinary record is retained for seven years. When suspension is one year or more, suspension may be noted on a student’s transcript permanently and the disciplinary record may be retained permanently.

When I am suspended during the semester, what happens to my current courses? 
On the date the suspension takes effect, the student may no longer attend classes. If the student is found to still be attending classes after the suspension date, it will be a violation and further disciplinary action will be taken. If a student is suspended at any point in the semester, their classes will be immediately dropped. 

Will my financial aid be affected by suspension?
The effects may vary on students who receive financial aid. Suspension may interrupt the attempted units and affect financial aid for the current and or following academic year. 

I have been suspended for more than three semesters, how will this affect my student status?
If a student is suspended for more than three consecutive semesters, the student must reapply to the University. However, if the suspension is less than three semesters, then the student may continue their education once the suspension period has ended. Certain conditions may need to be met before student status may be reinstated or before the student can return to campus at the conclusion of suspension, such as proof of counseling, completion of certain activities, or the like.

I am an international student, what happens if I get suspended?
International students should contact their SF State international advisor to better understand how suspension may affect their visa status.

What happens if I violate the Student Conduct Code after I am no longer on suspension?
Students who continue to violate the University's rules and policies may be permanently separated from both the campus and the CSU system by means of expulsion. Expulsion is a permanent sanction and means that the student expelled is prohibited from returning to this or any other of the campuses of the California State University as a student. Expulsion is permanently noted on the student’s transcript.