Getting into college is a serious feat, even for the best of students. There are standardized tests and classes to pass, applications to submit, and scholarships to apply for. Sometimes, the pressure of submitting all these documents on time gets overwhelming, and key pieces fall through the cracks. But what happens when your university suspects that some of these documents are forged?

Below, we will discuss the possible consequences that might result if you are accused of falsifying university documents.

Revocation of Admission

Whether you have started at your new college or are awaiting your admissions letter, if your university thinks that you have submitted falsified documents, your admission – and attendance – could be revoked.

At Cornell University, for example, if a student is suspected of having submitted untrue information or work that is not their own, they will assign a single official to investigate the matter, and the accused student has only 5 days to respond to their defense.  The official's determination is forwarded to the appropriate dean who may revoke their admission.  For students who have already started attending classes, they will be administratively withdrawn from these classes. Additionally, the university has the choice to void any course credit or grades the student received there to date.

Loss of Scholarships or Financial Aid

When you apply for financial aid or scholarships at your university, you are asked to provide them with a significant amount of documentation that shows you qualify for the scholarship. If you were to be found providing false documentation, you would most surely lose the scholarship or financial aid immediately. And depending on the school, they may require you to pay back the money you received – sometimes immediately.

Suspension of Dismissal from the University

At most universities, if you are caught violating the student code of conduct, you will be punished. A big part of the code of conduct is maintaining academic integrity. Providing true information on your university documents allows you to maintain the academic integrity of the university.

For instance, at Northern Illinois University, academic integrity is defined simply as “honesty.” By submitting work or information that you did not produce or which contains false information, you are actively violating academic integrity. Students who violate academic integrity will be suspended or dismissed from the university. It is important to note that suspensions and dismissals are always noted on your final transcript. So when you apply to a new school, you will have to explain the incident to the new admissions committee.

How an Attorney-Advisor Can Help

Being accused of falsifying university documents is a serious allegation that should not be defended alone. Attorney Joseph D. Lento and the Lento Law Firm have spent years helping university students accused of similar issues. They understand how complex these procedures can be and will work tirelessly to create a strong defense on your behalf, guaranteeing you the best possible outcome for your case. Call 888-535-3686 today for help, or schedule a consultation online.