Student Rights and Responsibilities
At UC Santa Cruz, you are part of a vibrant community that values both individual rights and collective responsibility. This section is designed to help you understand your rights as a student—from free expression and event planning, to due process and academic integrity—as well as your responsibilities as a member of our campus community. We want every student to feel informed, empowered, and supported when navigating policies, seeking guidance, or addressing concerns and conflict. Whether you’re organizing a protest, navigating the student conduct process, exploring resources as an undocumented student, or seeking care through a Title IX matter, this is a place to start.
Your rights as a student
Understanding your rights is a vital part of navigating college life and advocating for yourself and others. Whether you’re navigating a complex situation or simply want to better understand your rights, the Student Rights and Responsibilities page is designed to support you.
Free speech at UCSC
Free speech is essential to learning, advocacy, and student life. Our campus is a place where students are encouraged to share ideas, engage across differences, and speak up about what matters most to them. This section offers guidance to help you understand your rights, navigate expression-related activities, and connect with campus resources.
Time, Place, and Manner
At UC Santa Cruz, we affirm the right to free expression and recognize its vital role in student life, learning, and advocacy. To help maintain a safe and respectful campus environment, the university provides clear guidelines known as Conduct Regulations (Time, Place, and Manner). These outline when, where, and how expressive activities can take place. The goal is to support your rights while also honoring the university’s educational mission and daily operations.
Review the full Time, Place, and Manner Policy
View the UCSC Guidelines for Planing Public Expression Activities PDF
Student Conduct
Our student conduct process is grounded in developmental education and a commitment to community. We understand that conflict and accountability exist on a spectrum, and that growth can come from reflection, dialogue, and repairing harm. The Office of Student Conduct & Conflict Education supports students in navigating this process, helping them understand their rights, reflect on their choices, and engage more deeply with the shared commitments that shape our campus community.
Religious accommodations
Diverse religious, spiritual, philosophical, and cultural traditions enrich our campus community. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all individuals are welcomed, respected, and valued, regardless of belief or practice. This commitment is reflected in our policies and resources, including guidance on interfaith events, educational programs, and religious accommodations. When campus events or requirements conflict with a person’s religious practice, we encourage reasonable accommodations to support full participation in university life. This page offers information on our approach to religious inclusion and a calendar of holidays for the academic year.
Undocumented student support
Undocumented students are a valued and essential part of our community at UC Santa Cruz. You have rights, and you have our support. If you are looking to better understand what those rights are or are seeking legal advice, the link below will help guide you.
Academic integrity
Academic integrity is a vital part of your educational journey at UC Santa Cruz. Honesty, responsibility, and ethical behavior in your coursework and research help build a community rooted in trust and respect. If questions or concerns arise, there are clear policies and fair processes in place to help you navigate them.
Learn more about the Academic Misconduct Policy for Undergraduates.
Additional student resources
- Title IX
Learn how to report and respond to Title IX concerns, and how to access support whether you’re a complainant or respondent. - CARE Advocates
Connect with confidential advocates who can support you through experiences related to sexual violence, dating/domestic violence, and stalking. - Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
Understand how your educational records are protected under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, and what to do if you believe your rights have been violated. - UC Anti-Discrimination Policy
Review the University of California’s policy on discrimination and harassment. - UC Incident Reporting Form for Harassment and Discrimination
Report an incident of harassment or discrimination to the Equity and Equal Protection office. - Student Handbook
Access the official student handbook for a comprehensive overview of university policies and student rights.