Carnegie Mellon University

Community Standards

All graduate students at Carnegie Mellon University are expected to familiarize themselves with and follow applicable University policies and procedures as well as any applicable college and department policies. 

Below are links to various University community policies that most frequently concern graduate students. Please note that the policies linked below do not represent a comprehensive list or summary of University policy.

Comprehensive information on University policies may be found at the University Policy Homepage.

Alcohol and Drugs

Unlawful possession, use or distribution of illicit drugs or alcohol by students or employees on Carnegie Mellon University property or as part of any of its activities is prohibited.

Statement of Assurance

Carnegie Mellon University does not discriminate in admission, employment, or administration of its programs or activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, handicap or disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, creed, ancestry, belief, veteran status, or genetic information.  Furthermore, Carnegie Mellon University does not discriminate and is required not to discriminate in violation of federal, state, or local laws or executive orders.

Inquiries concerning the application of and compliance with this statement should be directed to the Office of Institutional Equity and Title IX, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, telephone 412-268-7125.

Obtain general information about Carnegie Mellon University by calling 412-268-2000.

Community Standards

Community Standards defines the disciplinary process, regulations, violations, hearings, appeals and other disciplinary procedures.

Disorderly Conduct

This policy sets forth the University's definition of Disorderly Conduct and states that such action may constitute grounds for disciplinary action or criminal citation.

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action

All personnel actions are administered in accordance with the university's commitment to non-discrimination and in compliance with applicable federal, state and local laws, statutes, orders and regulations.

Freedom of Expression

This policy sets forth the University's policy on Freedom of Expression, including the rights and responsibilities of members of the University community and considerations in planning campus events.

Smoking Policy

The Smoking Policy restricts smoking in most areas but provides procedures for designating and posting smoking areas.

Student Privacy Rights

This policy notifies students of their rights under the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act ("FERPA").

Riotous and Disorderly Behavior

Security officers have been instructed to arrest members of the campus community and guests who provoke riotous and disorderly behavior.

Policy against Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault

This policy defines sexual harassment and sexual assault and describes procedures for reporting concerns or allegations, and for investigating allegations and taking disciplinary or other corrective actions when a violation is found to have occurred.

Student Health Insurance

All full-time students are required to carry health insurance and will be assessed a charge for the individual basic mandatory plan offered through the university student health insurance program. The charge will appear on the invoice of the first semester of attendance in the academic cycle. 

Student Accounts Receivable Collection Policy and Procedures

A student is responsible for the payment of charges incurred at the university by the stated payment deadline. The purpose of this policy statement is to detail the specific process and action steps to be used to resolve any outstanding student account balance.

Policy on Workplace Threats and Violence

The Policy on Workplace Threats and Violence states that threats or acts of violence will not be tolerated on property owned or controlled by the university.