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Office of Community Standards

 Students takes advantage of the beautiful day to study in the afternoon sun in the main quad.
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Welcome to the Office of Community Standards

The Stanford community strives to create meaningful change both on campus and in the world. A commitment to integrity permeates all aspects of campus life, and the Office of Community Standards supports this mission by upholding two of Stanford's foundational principles: the Fundamental Standard and the Honor Code. Together, these standards articulate the values that unite us and outline the responsibilities that attend the great privilege of being at Stanford. Every member of the Stanford community plays an integral role in espousing these ideals and sustaining our culture of excellence.

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The Fundamental Standard

The Fundamental Standard has set the standard of conduct for students at Stanford since it was articulated in 1896. It states: Students at Stanford are expected to show both within and without the University such respect for order, morality, personal honor, and the rights of others as is demanded of good citizens. Failure to do this will be sufficient cause for removal from the University.

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The Honor Code

The Honor Code is an undertaking of the Stanford academic community, individually and collectively. Its purpose is to uphold a culture of academic honesty.

Cardinal Rules

Your role in upholding the Honor Code and Fundamental Standard.
  • Promote a culture of personal integrity and academic honesty through your daily actions
  • Speak up if you're unsure whether or not conduct would violate these principles
  • Hold yourself and others accountable to these community values
"We Are Stanford" campus signage.

Generative AI Policy Guidance

To give sufficient space for instructors to explore uses of generative AI tools in their courses, and to set clear guidelines to students about what uses are and are not consistent with the Stanford Honor Code, the BCA has set forth policy guidance regarding generative AI in the context of coursework.

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Report an Accessibility Issue

The Office of Community Standards and Stanford University are committed to providing an online environment that is accessible to everyone, including individuals with disabilities. If you cannot access content or use features on any Stanford University website due to a disability, please report your accessibility issue so we can address it. 

Students engage together during a Civic Salon event hosted by Paul Brest.

Protected Speech, Discrimination, and Harassment

Free expression is a core value at Stanford, but some speech or conduct can cross the line into discrimination or harassment. Explore how the university balances these principles and what resources are available if concerns arise. 

Sand stone pillars in the Main Quad of campus.