Frequently Asked Questions: Probation

Below are some answers to some frequently asked questions regarding disciplinary probation. 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 probation.

What does disciplinary probation mean?
Disciplinary probation is a status of bad standing with the University resulting from a violation of the Student Conduct Code. Disciplinary probation is noted on the student’s transcript during the duration of probation unless otherwise noted. A student who violates the Student Conduct Code while on probation will be subject to further disciplinary action and should, at minimum, expect suspension from SF State and all campuses in the CSU system.

Can I still take classes if I am on disciplinary probation?
Disciplinary probation is different than academic probation and students may continue to (and are encouraged to) take classes.

Does disciplinary probation affect my transcript?
Yes. Disciplinary probation is noted on a student’s transcript during the probationary period and is removed at the conclusion of the probation unless otherwise noted. The term "disciplinary probation" will appear on the student’s transcript, but not the reason why. The “disciplinary probation” notation may be seen by anyone who has reason to access the student’s transcript or by those with whom the student chooses to share it, such as potential employers, scholarship sources, graduate schools, and the like. While probation is not noted on the student’s transcript after the conclusion of his or her probation, the Office of Student Conduct retains disciplinary probation records for seven years.

What happens if I do something wrong while on probation? 
Students who violate the Student Conduct Code while on probation will be subject to further disciplinary action and should, at minimum, expect suspension from SF State and all campuses in the CSU system. Suspension begins immediately, regardless of the time of the academic semester. This means that if a student is suspended after the refund or add/drop period, the student may no longer attend classes for the semester or receive a refund of fees. In addition, the student may need to repay any financial aid already awarded for the quarter. 

What happens if I do something wrong after I am no longer on probation?
When the probationary period ends, the disciplinary notation is removed from the student’s transcripts. However, the Office of Student Conduct retains disciplinary records for seven years unless otherwise noted. A second offense will be treated as a repeat offense whether the student is placed on probation or not. The difference may be in the severity of the sanction, such as the duration of the suspension, when it begins, and what conditions may apply.