American University of Antigua (AUA) started in 2004 with only nine students. In the two decades to follow, the university has grown to a highly regarded medical school that boasts high pass rates on licensing exams. AUA students move on to practice across the globe, with 2023 graduates accepted to residency programs in 38 U.S. states, as well as in Canada and the UK.
At AUA, medical students are held to standards that include maintaining a certain academic record. Students also must follow a code of conduct that prohibits a wide variety of offenses, and violations could lead to suspension or dismissal. This type of penalty can permanently impact your future as a medical professional, so it shouldn't be taken lightly.
If you're facing disciplinary action as a medical student at AUA, the Lento Law Firm Education Law Team can help. Give us a call at 888-535-3686 or contact us using our online form.
Cause for Dismissal at AUA
Students at AUA have access to the school's policies and procedures that outline its code of conduct. This manual includes reasons for dismissal. The school's grades policy has its own section, which highlights the school's three grade statuses for students:
- In good standing
- On probationary status
- Dismissed
Graduate students must maintain a 3.00 GPA to remain in good standing. For undergraduate students, the minimum required GPA is 2.00.
Even if you're in good standing, though, you can be dismissed for a variety of misconduct accusations, including:
- Physical or verbal abuse or threats toward other people
- Distribution or use of alcohol or drugs on campus
- Smoking on campus, including e-cigarettes
- Theft of university or personal property
- Vandalism of university or personal property
- Playing cards in public spaces on campus
AUA's Adjudication Process
The AUA outlines its multistep disciplinary process in its handbook. Although some steps may be combined, typically, you'll get a verbal warning, followed by a written warning and dismissal. Although no formal hearing is mentioned in the handbook, the university states that students have a right to due process, including the “right to be heard, a right to review and decision by impartial persons or bodies, and a right to adequate notice.”
AUA students also have a right to appeal any decision. You have up to 10 calendar days to contest any notice of dismissal in writing. A copy of the appeal will go in your academic record. The appeals committee will have three days to respond with a decision. That decision is final.
How an Attorney Can Help
The AUA doesn't mention a hearing as part of its dismissal process, but your right to be heard is paramount. An attorney can help you navigate the AUA disciplinary process, including working with you to gather documentation to present to your program chair.
The Lento Law Firm Education Law Team can help AUA students determine what to do next. We'll review the allegations and help you come up with a course of action to dispute the claims. If you need to file an appeal, we can help you prepare that as well.
The Lento Law Firm Education Law Team believes every student deserves the chance to speak up. Our team has the experience necessary to review the claims against you and help you state your case. If you need help with a school dismissal threat, call us at 888-535-3686 or contact us here, and we'll be in touch.
