Our Community Standards and Policies
All students at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) are part of a learning community that values academic integrity, personal responsibility, and mutual respect. Our community standards and conduct policies define the expectations that allow our diverse community to learn, live, and work together successfully. They clarify the behaviours that support scholarly achievement, contribute to a positive community environment, and promote the safety and well-being of all members.
Why These Policies Matter
Protecting Your Rights and the Rights of Others
Conduct policies exist to safeguard fundamental rights that allow students to thrive. This includes the right to learn in a safe environment, the right to fairness in academic and community processes, and the right to have academic integrity upheld so that each student’s work and degree maintain their value. These policies outline what students can expect from the University and what the University expects from all members of the community.
Supporting a Diverse and International Community
KAUST is home to students from more than 100 countries, each bringing different norms, expectations, and cultural understandings. Clear policies help students navigate this diversity, reduce misunderstandings, and set a shared foundation for respectful interactions. They outline the behaviours that allow us to live, work, and learn together in a community that is welcoming and inclusive.
Ensuring Consistency and Clarity in All Situations
Policies provide structure and predictability. They explain how decisions are made, how concerns are reviewed, and how responsibilities are upheld across the University. This consistency allows students to understand processes, prevents arbitrary decisions, and ensures that similar situations are treated in similar ways. Policies help students make informed choices and understand the consequences of actions before issues arise.
The Student Code of Conduct
The Student Code of Conduct is the primary policy that outlines the standards of behaviour expected of all students at KAUST. It defines the responsibilities that come with being part of an academic community, and it explains how the University upholds fairness, respect, and integrity across all areas of student life.
The Code applies from the moment a student joins KAUST and continues throughout the duration of the academic program, including during online activity and University-sponsored events. It sets out the expectations for academic integrity, responsible community engagement, respectful communication, and the protection of the rights and well-being of others.
When concerns arise, the Code provides the framework for how student conduct matters are reviewed, the steps involved in the process, and the possible outcomes. This ensures that all situations are addressed consistently, transparently, and with respect for all individuals involved.
Students are encouraged to review the Code regularly so that they understand both their rights and their responsibilities as members of the KAUST community.
Foundational Principles
Personal Ethics
Students are expected to act with honesty, fairness, and respect. Upholding academic integrity and ethical behaviour ensures trust within the KAUST community.
Social Responsibility
Individual actions reflect on the University and the wider community. Students are expected to act responsibly and consider how their behaviour affects others.
Awareness
Students are encouraged to be aware of their surroundings and to address or report significant misconduct. Awareness helps maintain safety, security, and community well-being.
Other Policies That Support Student Conduct
While the Student Code of Conduct is the primary framework for student behavior at KAUST, it operates alongside a number of additional University policies. These policies address specific areas of academic life, research activity, residential living, community expectations, and digital conduct. Understanding these policies helps students navigate the University environment, meet their responsibilities, and make informed decisions across a wide range of situations.
The policies below represent the key areas that most commonly apply to students. They complement the Student Code and provide more detailed guidance for particular settings or circumstances.
Campus and Community Standards
KAUST Code of Conduct
Sets broad expectations for ethical, respectful, and professional behaviour for all members of the University community.
Residential Community Standards
Outlines expectations for responsible behavior that supports a positive and inclusive campus environment.
KAUST Road Safety Code
Establishes requirements for safe driving and transportation practices within the KAUST community.
Guidelines for Ownership of Pets in the KAUST Community
Provides rules for responsible pet ownership to ensure the safety, comfort, and well-being of all community members.
Safety, Respect, and Well-Being
Security Rules and Regulations
Covers standards for maintaining the safety and integrity of KAUST facilities, systems, and operations.
Anti-Harassment Policy
Defines prohibited conduct and outlines procedures to maintain a safe, respectful environment free from harassment.
Equal Opportunity in Education and Employment Policy
Affirms KAUST’s commitment to fairness and equal access to educational and employment opportunities.
Academic, Research, and Professional Standards
Social Media Governance Policy
Provides guidance on responsible and appropriate use of social media while representing or engaging with the University.
Acceptable Use Policy
Defines responsible use of KAUST electronic systems, networks, and digital resources.
Content and Records Management Policy
Describes how University records and content must be created, stored, and managed securely and accurately.
KAUST Data Privacy Policy
Outlines how personal data is collected, used, protected, and managed in accordance with KAUST privacy standards.
KAUST Brand and Logo Policy
Provides rules for appropriate and authorized use of the KAUST name, brand, and visual identity.
Academic, Research, and Professional Standards
Academic Policies (Program Guide)
Defines academic requirements, procedures, and expectations for student progression and degree completion.
Graduate Student Leave Policy
Defines procedures and requirements for taking approved leave during graduate study at KAUST.
Research Integrity Policy
Establishes expectations for honesty, accuracy, and ethical conduct in scholarly and scientific work.
Research Compliance Guidelines
Summarizes the standards for conducting research responsibly, ethically, and in compliance with regulatory requirements.
Policy on Conflict of Interest
Clarifies situations that may create conflicts of interest and outlines responsibilities for transparent disclosure.
Intellectual Property Policy
Explains the ownership, use, and protection of intellectual property created at or in partnership with KAUST.
KAUST Academic Travel Policy
Outlines requirements and responsibilities for students engaged in University-supported academic travel.
Where to Find Additional Information
Students who wish to review policies or seek further clarification can refer to several University resources. These platforms house official policies, academic regulations, and research compliance information that support informed decision-making
Contact Student Conduct
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, please contact KAUST Security at 911.
