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Academic Integrity

The American College of the Mediterranean is an academic institution, an instrument of learning. As such, ACM is predicated on the principles of scholastic honesty. It is an academic community, whose members are expected to abide by ethical standards in their conduct and in their exercise of responsibility towards other community members. Academic dishonesty is an affront to the integrity of scholarship at the school and a threat to the quality of learning.  

To maintain its credibility and uphold its reputation, ACM procedures to deal with academic dishonesty should be uniform and understood by all. This document outlines ACM sanctions against cheating and the procedures by which they are implemented. For the full policy on Academic Integrity, including administrative procedures, please see the ACM Catalog. 

Academic Policies

Enrollment at ACM requires adherence to its standards of academic integrity and behavior. Students are expected to approach their academic work with dedication and integrity, understanding that they are responsible for enhancing their own learning through personal effort. They also agree to be fully prepared for each class session and not to engage in any of the Prohibited Academic Actions listed in the ACM Catalog. Students should note that this list is not exhaustive and merely represents a sampling of unacceptable offenses. Violation of these or any other acts deemed unsuitable and reflecting poorly on a student, classmates, and/or ACM is grounds for dismissal from the program without refund.  All academic policies can be found in the ACM Catalog and can be accessed through the links below:

 


Admissions Policies

Students can find the admission requirements for all programs, as well as requirements specific to the graduate and undergraduate application both on the ACM Admissions website and in the ACM Catalog. Applicants are responsible for reviewing the instructions and submitting the necessary requirements at the time of application.  


Alcohol & Drug Policy

Appropriate use of alcohol is determined by individual program regulations, local cultural norms, and safety considerations.  

Excessive consumption of alcohol and/or binge drinking and drinking to get drunk are considered culturally inappropriate in many parts of the world. Alcohol may be consumed, within reasonable limits, by students who are of legal age. Students who choose to consume alcohol do so with the knowledge that they remain responsible for their actions at all times and are expected to drink responsibly and refrain from putting themselves or other students in danger. Excessive and/or irresponsible drinking (as reported by faculty and staff, homestay hosts, student residence staff or other students) leading to intoxication and behavior that interferes with the program or the rights of others, is prohibited and subject to the conduct proceedings.  

Alcohol may be served at certain official ACM-IAU-sponsored events with staff supervision. Individual consumption in ACM-IAU campuses and buildings outside of these event parameters is not permitted. Any alcohol consumption on ACM-IAU campus or in ACM-IAU buildings outside of sponsored events is a violation of this policy and subject to conduct proceedings.    

At ACM-IAU, students are not allowed to use or possess drugs or alcohol in program housing. Drinking excessively or consuming alcohol in public spaces within the community is also not permitted while enrolled in the program. 

Students may not sell, use or possess any drug considered by host country law to be illicit or illegal. Students are cautioned that the possession of drugs is often dealt with harshly by host country law enforcement. ACM-IAU policy regarding possession or use of illegal drugs is one of zero tolerance. 

NOTE: Any drug infraction will be considered a grave violation of ACM-IAU policy, and we may be required by law to report drug possession to the local authorities. Drug infractions may result in immediate dismissal from the program without refund or credit. Furthermore, ACM-IAU reserves the right to notify students’ parents or legal guardians should any student’s alcohol or drug consumption be deemed excessive and ultimately dangerous to the student’s health and well-being. 

Assistance: Members of the ACM-IAU community concerned about their use of alcohol or drugs may discuss their situation and obtain treatment referrals in a confidential setting at the ACM-IAU Wellness Center or with a medical or mental health professional. 

Animals on Campus

ACM-IAU is committed to providing accommodations to individuals with disabilities, to the best of our ability. ACM-IAU complies with applicable laws for each study abroad location. This policy governs the presence of Certified Service Animals (CSA) and Emotional Support Animals (ESA) in program-provided housing and on ACM-IAU program sites.  ACM-IAU has a no pet policy in all of its program housing options. Students may not arrive to an ACM-IAU program with a pet or acquire one while living in program housing.

Certified Service Animals (CSA) 

Students may receive program accommodations for CSAs depending on local laws and regulations along with the policies of ACM-IAU onsite partners. CSAs must demonstrate certification, and students will need to provide supporting documentation. With prior approval, CSAs may be permitted in ACM-IAU housing and facilities, where possible, and students seeking to keep a CSA in ACM-IAU housing must make a formal request through the ACM-IAU Accommodations Request. All requests for CSA on ACM-IAU programs must be submitted to ACM-IAU in advance, at least 30 days before the start of the semester. However, it is the discretion of individual onsite entities (housing partners, internship sites, etc) whether the animal can be accepted on their premises. If a Housing Accommodations request is approved involving a participant’s CSA, individual participants accept full responsibility for all travel, care, wellbeing, and cost for their animal.  

Emotional Support Animals (ESA) 

ACM-IAU is supportive of students who wish to study abroad with their ESAs. However, participants seeking to study abroad with ESAs are required to submit a request for non-program housing and complete and sign the waiver. Further, ESAs cannot accompany students to any organized program activities, including classes, internship activities, excursions, on-campus activities, etc. Participants assigned to program housing who arrive onsite with an ESA will not be permitted to move into program housing. They will be asked to secure independent housing at their own cost and will not be eligible for a refund of program housing fees. 

Participant Responsibilities

ACM-IAU is unable to intervene or provide advice regarding whether an animal is accepted abroad; ACM-IAU has no jurisdiction or influence over transportation policies and local laws pertaining to animals. Further, if an animal is impounded or otherwise detained by the local authorities for any reason, ACM-IAU will be unable to intercede. Animals may not be allowed by some transportation vendors, hotels, restaurants and other onsite business and locations. At no time should care of the animal hinder participation in the program or academic progress. 

Bullying & Cyberbullying

ACM-IAU is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all students. Bullying, including cyberbullying, is strictly prohibited under the Code.  Definitions:

  • Bullying is repeated, intentional behavior that causes physical, emotional, or psychological harm to another person.  
  • Cyberbullying includes the use of digital platforms (social media, texts, emails, etc.) to harass, threaten, or humiliate others. 
    • Note: ACM-IAU cannot prevent students or other individuals from consulting public profiles.  

Reporting: 
Students are encouraged to report bullying to a staff or faculty member. 

 

Code of Conduct

Students enrolled in ACM-IAU programs are expected to engage in responsible social conduct that models good citizenship, cultural awareness, and reflects the core values of respect, integrity, and safety. This includes acting respectfully and courteously towards program participants, ACM-IAU faculty and staff, homestay hosts, local community members, and local authorities. As it is especially important to stay safe in an international/ study abroad experience, students must be active participants in the matter of their own safety and health. Behavior that risks one’s own welfare or the welfare of others will not be tolerated. ACM-IAU reserves the right to dismiss students without refund because of acts which violate these, and the other principles laid out in this section.  

ACM-IAU reserves the right to update this code and once published online, all policies are considered active. The ACM-IAU Student Code of Conduct ("the Code") details specific expectations for conduct, including but not limited to:

  • Respectful communication and interaction  
  • Adherence to ACM-IAU policies and local laws and customs  
  • Maintaining a safe and healthy environment  
  • Appropriate behavior 

Peer Relations: Students are encouraged to contribute to a positive and inclusive atmosphere. Students are expected to make a genuine effort to resolve any disagreements with their peers. If a resolution cannot be reached, students are encouraged to seek assistance from ACM-IAU staff.  

Program Staff and Faculty Relations: Students are responsible for engaging with program staff and faculty in a fair and considerate manner.  

Homestay Host Relations: Homestays are a core component of the ACM-IAU program, providing invaluable experiential learning. Students are expected to approach the homestay experience with an open mind and a willingness to embrace both the joys and challenges of living with a local host. Sensitive, respectful, and proactive communication with homestay hosts is essential. ACM-IAU staff are available to support and assist students in navigating these relationships.  

Housing Provider Relations: Maintaining respectful conduct in student residences and apartments is essential to the success of our ACM-IAU housing program. 

Community Relations: Students are expected to actively participate in the positive image of ACM-IAU in the community. 

ACM-IAU Shared Responsibility for Ethical Conduct  

Maintaining a culture of ethical conduct is a collective responsibility within the ACM-IAU community. Specific roles include:  

  • Students are expected to understand and adhere to the ACM-IAU Code and uphold principles of integrity.  
  • Faculty are responsible for cultivating a learning environment that values honesty and ethical behavior and are required to address and/or report any Code of Conduct violations promptly and appropriately.  
  • Staff and Administrators are responsible for ensuring the clarity, fairness, and effectiveness of the Code. They are responsible for communication, adjudication, and recordkeeping.  

ACM-IAU Scope for Student Conduct 

Who: The ACM-IAU Student Code of Conduct applies to all enrolled ACM undergraduate and graduate students, from the point of admission onward, all ACM-IAU students on semester, custom or short-term (J-term) programs while on an IAU program, from arrival until the official program end date. It also applies to guests of ACM-IAU students, who may be held accountable for their guest's misconduct. Guests may seek resolution for Code violations committed against them by ACM-IAU students. Anonymous complaints are accepted, but may limit investigation capabilities. 

What: Students are responsible for knowing and abiding by its provisions. ACM-IAU reserves the right to update the Code, with changes effective upon online posting. Students are responsible for all communications sent to their ACM-IAU email address. The Code applies to online conduct, including social media, which is considered public. ACM-IAU may act on online violations brought to its attention. 

Where: The Code applies to conduct at all program locations, including campus and instructional centers, study tours or traveling seminar locations, homestays, program housing providers, and excursions. It may also apply elsewhere (while not in a program location) if conduct significantly affects ACM-IAU interests, including: threats to health or safety, infringement on rights or property, detriment to ACM-IAU's educational mission. 

When: ACM-IAU retains jurisdiction for misconduct occurring before the program end date, a leave of absence, withdrawal, or graduation. IAU students are covered under the Code until their program end date. ACM students are covered under the Code from admission to graduation/official program end date. The Code extends to all students and their actions while still living in ACM-IAU housing, even if that date extends beyond the program end date. Students departing early or withdrawing with pending charges may still face proceedings and outcomes. Outcomes may include holds on re-enrollment or transcripts. 

There is no time limit for reporting violations, but prompt reporting is encouraged. Those who are aware of misconduct are encouraged to report it as quickly as possible to ACM-IAU staff. 

Note: A student under the influence of alcohol or drugs does not diminish their responsibility for adhering to the Code. 

Authority 

The ACM-IAU Dean of Students has been vested with the authority over student conduct cases. Conduct cases may be heard by the Dean of Students or staff they have designated to preside over conduct cases. 

Code Violations and Prohibited Actions  

Conduct unbecoming of an ACM-IAU student, including but not limited to violating any policies contained in the ACM Student Handbook or the ACM Catalogue. 

  • Alcohol and drug policy violations
  • Bullying and Cyberbullying   
  • Criminal behavior or violation of local laws   
  • Damage or vandalism to ACM-IAU property, housing facilities used by ACM-IAU, or at one of our partners  
  • Disorderly, lewd, indecent or obscene conduct   
  • Disturbing or distressing behavior to students, staff, faculty, or partners   
  • Failure to follow the ACM-IAU established guidelines, directives, timetables, and instructions of staff or faculty members  
  • Forgery, Falsification or alteration documents, academic or student records, including, but not limited to, any unauthorized alteration of medical report form, for the use of any documents with the purpose to defraud   
  • Harassment or stalking not limited to members of the ACM-IAU community  
  • Health and safety hazards 
  • Housing Agreement and policy violations including, but not limited to, unauthorized guests, excessive noise, parties, rowdy conduct, and intoxication   
  • Involvement in activities or behavior that could result in personal harm  
  • Obstruction of classes or activities   
  • Possession and/or use of firearms, dangerous weapons, fireworks, or explosives   
  • Public exposure (includes public urination or defecation) 
  • Sexual misconduct or sexual harassment policy violation  
  • Theft   
  • Unauthorized entry to ACM-IAU or partner facilities   
  • Use of ACM-IAU technology for any illegal or inappropriate purpose   
  • Verbal abuse of faculty, staff, students, or representatives from partner organizations.   
  • Violence against others  
  • Academic dishonesty (per ACM-IAU Catalog) 

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) 

Policy Concerning Privacy of Education Records: IAU has implemented this policy to advance the objectives of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) by affording current and former students a right of access to their "educational records" and by adopting restrictions on the persons to whom IAU may disclose information from education records without the student's written permission.

Education Records: With certain exceptions, "Educational records" of a student include records, files, documents, and other materials regularly maintained by the University that contain information directly related to a student and the student's attendance at IAU.  Education records do not include notes of faculty or administrators intended and kept for their sole use, employment records, medical and other treatment records, records containing information about students following their attendance at IAU.

Student Access to and Amendment of Education Records: A student or former student may request to review his or her education records by submitting a written request to IAU, which request should specify the records sought.  A request to inspect and review "all records" is not normally sufficient to identify records for review.  IAU will endeavor to make such records available within 45 days of such request.  Letters of recommendation will not be made available in cases where the student has waived the right to review. If the student requests copies of records, they will be provided subject to a reasonable charge.

A student may request that records be amended to eliminate any information that he or she believes is inaccurate, misleading, or unlawfully infringes privacy or other rights. If IAU refuses to amend a student's records, the student is entitled to an informal hearing with an authorized officer to challenge IAU’s decision.  Such a hearing may take place on a telephone call.   If the hearing upholds IAU’s decision, the student has the right to place in his or her records a statement commenting upon the information.

Release of Records to Others   Generally IAU will not release educational records or personally identifiable information contained therein to any party without the written consent of the student. There are exceptions to this rule, including: releases to IAU employees and officials at students’ home institutions who have a legitimate educational interest in accessing such information; releases pursuant to a court order or to a lawfully issued subpoena (after first providing ten days advance notice to the student at his or her last known address, unless the subpoena or order prohibits such notice); releases to appropriate persons, including parents, in connection with a health or safety emergency.  IAU may also release “directory information” without a student’s consent.  IAU considers the following to be “directory information”:   A student’s name, IAU program, semesters in attendance at IAU, email address, home institution, and photograph.   If an IAU student does not want directory information released, he or she should contact the registrar.

Financial Policies

Please refer to?ACM's Cancellation and Refund Policy?for more information. 

Financial Statements: To request a copy of ACM’s audited financial statements, please contact Student Financial Services at?us.accounts.receivable@iau.edu. 

 

General Data Protection Regulation Policy

In its capacity as a data controller in Europe, please be aware that ACM-IAU collects and processes personal information in connection with the application process and educational programs of ACM-IAU.            
 
In compliance with articles 13 and 14 of the General Data Protection Regulation 2016/679 of the European Parliament and European Council of April 27 2016 and article 32 of the “Information Liberties” law of January 6, 1978, ACM_IAU hereby informs students that: 
 
ACM-IAU collects data for the sole purpose of administrative processing and the organization of IAU/ACM educational programs. The responsible official may designate other administrative personnel of ACM-IAU under their authority to handle this data. 
 
All personal data collected is for the sole purpose of the planning, organization, and security of ACM-IAU programs. It will be processed and handled in accordance with ACM-IAU policies and the aforementioned law and EU GDPR, guided by the principles of fairness, lawfulness, transparency, purpose limitation, accuracy, storage limitation, integrity, confidentiality and accountability, as well as the utmost protection of students’ privacy. 
 
Data collected is held for five years from the time of registration. Students have the right to access, correct, or erase their personal data by requesting it via email or mail to the responsible official. ACM-IAU keeps a record of how it uses their personal data, which they can consult if they wish. ACM-IAU only uses sensitive personal data, such as health conditions and food habits, for the purposes for which they collect it, such as students’ health and safety. 

Students have the right to: 

  • Limit the use of thier personal data
  • Object to how their personal data is used
  • The portability of their personal data

Students have the right to withdraw their consent to the use of their personal data at any time by writing a letter to: ACM-IAU, 8 rue de Littera, BP30970, 13604 Aix en Provence, France or email to: kristin.ouerfelli@iau.edu. They can also make a claim to the CNIL (Commission Nationale de l’Informatique et des Libertés). 

 

Grievance Policy

Purpose 

ACM-IAU is committed to providing a respectful, fair, and professional learning environment. This policy establishes a clear and accessible process for students to raise and resolve grievances that they believe have negatively impacted their educational experience.  

Scope and Exclusions 

This policy applies to grievances involving decisions pertaining to a student or other treatment of a student by ACM-IAU staff, faculty, administrators, that have a direct, material adverse effect on the complainant. However, it does not apply to: 

  • Grade disputes (see the ACM-IAU Catalog for the Grade Dispute Policy) 
  • Student conduct matters (see the Code of Conduct) 
  • Allegations of discrimination or harassment (see ACM-IAU’s Non-Discrimination and Sexual Misconduct Policies)
  • Billing disputes or financial aid issues 
  • Matters involving another student, unless related to staff or faculty response

  • Matters involving ACM-IAU students generally, that do not have a particularized impact on an individual complainant  

Informal Resolution 

Students are encouraged to resolve concerns promptly by speaking directly with the staff or faculty member involved. If this does not lead to resolution, or if the student prefers not to speak directly with the individual, they may contact the Dean of Student Affairs for informal guidance. 

Formal Grievance Submission 

If informal resolution is unsuccessful or not appropriate, students may submit a formal written grievance to both the Dean of Student Affairs and the Director of Administration. This must occur within 30 calendar days of the incident. 
 
The grievance must include: 

  • A statement that it is being submitted under the ACM-IAU Student Grievance Policy
  • Name of the student and ACM-IAU email address
  • Name(s) of the person(s) the grievance concerns
  • Date(s) and description of the incident(s) 
  • Any supporting documentation and names of witnesses 
  • The specific resolution being sought 

Review and Response 

The Dean of Students (or designee) will acknowledge receipt within five (5) business days. An investigation or inquiry will be conducted as needed, which inquiry may involve meeting with the parties, interviewing witnesses, informing the person whose actions are the subject of the complaint of the allegations and/or providing that person a copy of the complainant’s statement, and making any other appropriate inquiries. A written response will be provided within twenty (20) business days from the acknowledgment. If further time is needed for investigation, the student will be informed. The response may include a finding that the grievance is unwarranted or could not be substantiated; or that the requested resolution is to be effectuated; or it may recommend a negotiated settlement. 

Appeal 

If the student is dissatisfied with the outcome, they may appeal in writing to the Provost within ten (10) business days of receiving the decision. The appeal must include the original grievance, the written decision, and the rationale for the appeal.  The Provost’s decision is final. 


Housing Policies

All students will review and sign the ACM-IAU Housing Agreement prior to arrival at their program location. Students are also responsible for all location-specific housing information.  

For more detailed information, please see the location-specific housing webpage.  

Housing arrangements are aligned with the ACM-IAU academic calendars. All students wishing to have program housing must complete the necessary request forms by the established deadlines. All requests will be reviewed, but specific housing assignments cannot be guaranteed in advance. Students will be required to sign and must adhere to all housing policies and the Code. 

ACM Students will receive a Housing Calendar with dates that housing is available and additional information on move in dates and check out procedures. Any special requests must be submitted in writing at least 30 days prior to the date.  

IAU Students have access to their assigned housing on the program start date (as indicated on the academic calendar) and will need to vacate their accommodations on the last day of the program session. Early check-in and late-check out are not available. Any housing needed outside of program dates is the responsibility of the student.  

Students should be aware that they may need to vacate their housing arrangements at the end of each term, and students must apply for intersession or break housing (housing fees apply). ACM-IAU Housing is not available during the break between the summer and fall term. Only participants on degree or academic year programs are entitled to request program housing during the break between two consecutive sessions. 

Students must request approval for non-program housing and the request may be approved under certain circumstances.  

Pets are not allowed in ACM-IAU Housing. 


Leave of Absence, Program Withdrawal, Early Departure

All information regarding leaves of absence, program withdrawal or early departure can be found in the ACM-IAU Catalog. Students should adhere to the guidelines outlined in order to process any of these requests.  

Media Release

It is understood that any likeness taken of students while attending ACM, any of their comments or statements made related to ACM, and any images, statements or documents shared with ACM may be used by ACM in future materials published by ACM with no compensation payable to the students.


Non-Discrimination Policy

ACM-IAU admits students of any race, color, national origin, and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. ACM-IAU does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or genetic information in its administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs and other school-administered programs.

If anyone believes they have experienced discrimination, they should contact the Dean of Students or other relevant staff member.

Religious Observance Policy

ACM-IAU is committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful environment that accommodates the diverse religious and spiritual practices of its students, faculty, and staff.  

Student Responsibility: Students are responsible for completing the absence form to request a religious observation. 

 

Sexual Assault & Harassment

ACM-IAU Policy Against Sexual Harassment  

ACM-IAU is committed to fostering a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all members of its community. Sexual harassment and sexual misconduct undermine that commitment and will not be tolerated. This policy outlines the definitions, procedures, and resources available to address incidents involving students, staff, faculty, or other individuals associated with ACM-IAU programs.  

Scope  

This policy applies to all members of the ACM-IAU community, including students, faculty, staff, visiting faculty, Resident Fellows, homestay hosts, vendors, contractors, and other program participants or affiliates. 

Definitions  

Sexual Harassment: Sexual harassment is defined as any unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that:  

  • Interferes with an individual’s learning or working environment,  
  • Creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment, or 
  • Involves retaliation against individuals for reporting or participating in investigations of such behavior. 
This includes harassment directed at individuals of the same or different sex or gender identity and includes inappropriate conduct, whether physical, verbal, written, or digital. 

 

Sexual Assault 

Sexual assault is any actual or attempted sexual activity without consent. This includes acts carried out through force, coercion, or when the individual is incapacitated by illness, disability, or the effects of alcohol or other substances. 

Consent 

Consent is a freely given, informed, unambiguous, and unencumbered agreement to engage in specific sexual activity. It must be actively communicated and may be withdrawn at any time. Silence, lack of protest, or prior relationships do not imply consent. A person who is unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to give clear, voluntary permission cannot consent. Significant disparities in power—such as those between a student and a staff or faculty member—may also affect whether consent can be considered valid. 

Reporting and Support 

Student Reporting 

Students are strongly encouraged to report any instances of sexual harassment, assault, or misconduct to the Dean of Students or any ACM-IAU faculty or staff member. All faculty and staff are mandated reporters and will forward information to the Dean of Students to ensure appropriate follow-up.  

Immediate Assistance  

In emergencies, students should call: Emergency Services: 112 (number for all of Europe) 

ACM-IAU staff will help students on-site access medical care, legal support, and counseling as needed. English-speaking counselors can be arranged through ACM-IAU’s Wellness Center.  

Initial Response and Confidentiality 

ACM-IAU prioritizes the safety and well-being of students. Staff receiving a report will listen respectfully, explain available options, and connect the student with support resources. While ACM-IAU will strive to maintain confidentiality, absolute confidentiality cannot be guaranteed. Only licensed medical professionals can offer fully confidential services. 

Procedures  

Resolution Process  

ACM-IAU may pursue either:  

  • Early Resolution: An informal approach to stop the behavior and resolve the issue when appropriate. 
  • Formal Investigation: If early resolution is not appropriate or successful, a formal review will be led by the Dean of Students or designated official. The respondent has the right to respond and to be accompanied by a person of their choice during interviews.

Outcomes  

Following an investigation, outcomes may include:  

  • A formal warning
  • A written apology
  • Required participation in sensitivity or educational training
  • Suspension or expulsion from ACM-IAU 

Referral to Authorities

When appropriate, ACM-IAU will contact local authorities or support students in making a report. Students are not required to file a police report, but it may be recommended in serious cases.  

Communication with Home Institutions  

For students enrolled through U.S. or partner institutions, ACM-IAU may inform the home college or university to ensure coordinated support and follow-up.  

Student Responsibility 

ACM-IAU expects all students to conduct themselves in a manner that respects the rights and safety of others. By choosing to study at ACM-IAU, students join a community committed to addressing harassment and misconduct seriously and promptly.  

Key Contacts 

  • Aix-en-Provence 
    • Dean of Students: Dr. Mary Boyington  
    • Wellness Coordinators: Anabelle Martin, Dr. Pamela King 
  • Barcelona 
    • Student Affairs Coordinator: Siobhan Hayes 
  • Madrid 
    • Madrid Center Director: Yolanda Charlan 
  • Florence 
    • Florence Center Director: Dr. Martino Lovato 


Student Commitment to Program & Academic Expectations

While studying with The American College of the Mediterranean (ACM), students are committed to:  
  • Uphold ACM-IAU standards of conduct and behavior, reflecting positively on both themselves and the institution.  
  • Actively participate in academic programming and all required program activities  
  • Build a strong community in alignment with the ACM-IAU values  
  • Play a vital role in creating a safe and healthy community 
  • Respect the ACM-IAU community (including partners) 
  • Interact courteously with fellow students, faculty, staff, and local partners 
  • Take responsibility for their actions. 

These values guide students in their actions both on and off campus, their interactions with peers, faculty, and staff, and as representatives of ACM-IAU in the local community. 

ACM-IAU programs are designed to provide students with a transformative international education experience. As representatives of ACM-IAU and their home culture, students are expected to demonstrate respect for local laws, customs, and cultural norms. All students are legally subject to the same laws and regulations that govern the host country, as well as any laws that are applicable as a foreign citizen in the host country. 

Students are expected to adhere to ACM-IAU's code of conduct, which includes policies regarding academic integrity, harassment, discrimination, and substance abuse.  

Students are expected to approach their academic work with dedication and integrity and must familiarize themselves with Academic Policies outlined in the ACM-IAU Catalog such as academic integrity, Satisfactory Academic Progress, grading, etc. All enrolled ACM-IAU students have acknowledged their adherence to the policies detailed in the catalog. Ignorance is not a defense for violating policies. For more information, please see the ACM-IAU Catalog. 

 

Student Privacy

ACM-IAU is committed to protecting the privacy of students' educational records. Students have the right to access and control access to their educational records consistent with the principles of the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) in the United States and with consideration for relevant data protection laws abroad. These include the right to review educational records, and control disclosure of personal and academic information to third parties. 

Definition: For the purposes of this policy, educational records are defined as any records (including but not limited to documents, emails, digital files, and transcripts) directly related to a student and maintained by ACM-IAU or by a party acting for ACM-IAU. ACM-IAU students have the right to review their educational records and request an amendment if the record is inaccurate or misleading.  

ACM-IAU can disclose personally identifiable information from a student's educational records without the student's prior written consent under certain situations, such as sharing information with a student's home university, requests for transfer information, to authorized representatives, and to accrediting organizations.  

In the event of a health or safety emergency, ACM-IAU may disclose information from a student's educational records if the institution determines that there is an articulable and significant threat to the health or safety of the student or other individuals.   

ACM-IAU may disclose information to parents of a student who is a dependent for tax purposes or regarding the student's violation of laws and policies.  

Student educational records are maintained in various locations, including the Registrar's Office, academic departments, Student Affairs, and other relevant administrative offices, both in physical and electronic formats. 

Students with questions or concerns about their privacy rights or the handling of their educational records should contact the Registrar's Office at registrar@iau.edu.  

 

Student Records

Student records will be maintained on-site at the administrative site for five years from the last date of attendance. Transcripts are maintained permanently per the ACM-IAU Catalog.  

 

Student Rights & Responsibilities

ACM-IAU is committed to providing a supportive and enriching educational experience. To ensure a positive and productive environment for all, students are granted certain rights and are expected to uphold specific responsibilities. 

Student Rights:

Students have the right to:
  • A safe and respectful environment 
  • Academic support  
  • Fundamental fairness 
  • Voice concerns 
  • Access information 

 

Student Responsibilities: 

Students are responsible for the following: 
  • Maintaining Academic Integrity (per ACM-IAU Catalog)  
  • Respectful Conduct (per ACM-IAU Catalog) 
  • Adherence to Policies: Students are responsible for familiarizing themselves with and adhering to all ACM-IAU policies 
  • Personal Safety and Well-Being: taking reasonable precautions to ensure their own safety and well-being, and for being mindful of the safety and well-being of others. 
  • Cultural Sensitivity: respecting the cultural norms and customs of the host country and community. 
  • Proactive Communication: Students are responsible to communicate any problems, or concerns to the appropriate ACM-IAU staff member. 

Student Safety & Prohibited Activities

Certain activities are deemed potentially dangerous to individual safety and program integrity. For these reasons, following activities are prohibited by ACM-IAU students: 

  • Driving of any kind (cars, motorcycles, scooters, etc.) 
  • Use as driver or passenger of motorized scooters, hoverboards 
  • Riding in private airplanes or helicopters, hot air balloons 
  • Hitchhiking 
  • Water sports (jet skiing, surfing, parasailing, scuba diving, and entering any body of water from height (diving)) 
  • Outdoor rock climbing 
  • Extreme sports such as: bungee jumping, skydiving, paragliding, hang gliding, BASE jumping 

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