Student Respondent Refund Information

When individuals accused of prohibited conduct receive an OIEC written Notice of Allegations, this means that the formal grievance process has officially begun.  While a formal grievance process lasts an average of up to 90 days from the date of the written Notice of Allegations, some adjudications may end sooner. It is also possible, given certain circumstances, that the process may require more time to complete. Read more in the OIEC Resolution Procedures.

Whether a formal grievance process is completed within 90 days or is extended, it is important to understand the deadlines related to tuition/fees refunds and housing charges at the beginning of the process.

Tuition and Fees Refunds

A tuition refund is typically based on the date when the student is no longer enrolled at the university, whether as a result of university action or the student’s decision to voluntarily withdraw. However, in situations where a student is suspended or expelled at the conclusion of an OIEC investigation, OIEC will request a tuition refund for that student from the Office of the Registrar using the date on which the investigation began (this is the date of the written Notice of Allegations) and the corresponding refund period on CU Boulder’s Withdrawal Calendar, rather than the date upon which the investigation concluded (Notice of Sanction). Please see the Withdraw from the Semester webpage for more information as different courses have different deadlines.  Please note that withdrawals may impact the refund amount. If a student does not completely withdraw from all courses, refunds might not be issued. Please check with the Bursar’s office for your eligibility. 

If you would like to discuss your specific circumstances and what options might be available, please contact the Support and Safety Measures Team at 303-492-2127.

Please note that whether the student voluntarily withdraws, or is suspended or expelled by the university, applicable grades the student earns during that semester will typically be converted to a withdrawal or “WD”, regardless of the date.

Education Abroad

A student’s participation in a CU Education Abroad program may be affected if they are being investigated pursuant to a Formal Grievance Process. Depending on the circumstances, participation in the program may be postponed or cancelled. A student's eligibility for refunds related to the Education Abroad program may also be impacted.

 Students are encouraged to contact the Education Abroad Office at eahss@colorado.edu to discuss their specific situation and obtain information regarding potential impacts on their program participation and any applicable refunds.

Housing Charges

For students living in a residence hall, University Housing assesses a financial penalty for the current semester when a housing contract is terminated and the student remains enrolled in classes. Contract termination penalties can result from either student- or university-initiated action. If a student is no longer attending classes, i.e., has left the university, the housing cancellation penalty is not assessed.

When a housing contract is terminated due to an OIEC investigation, either by OIEC or voluntary termination by the student, and the student is still attending classes, it is our process to request that University Housing not assess that penalty. However, please be aware, per the contract, there are also non-refundable usage charges that apply from the start of the contract to the official date of checkout.  In addition, first-year students are subject to live-on requirements and should review the contract for information on the terms including fees and requirements to be released from their contract. Dining plans are terminated when a hall check-out is complete. Please contact 303-492-6673 if you have questions regarding your housing or dining contract.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the OIEC Support and Safety Measures unit at 303-492-2127.