Academic Policies and Rules

As a student at SCU you are expected to understand and adhere to SCU policies which govern many different aspects of university life. You can view them all at SCU’s Policy Library, but you may wish to begin by familiarising yourself with the following sample of policies which relate specifically to students (there are also policies that only apply to international onshore students near the end of the page).

  • Assessment Policy
    The assessment of student learning is a central activity of the University. It has an important role in driving and shaping student learning. This policy has information regarding student assessment practices and objectives.
  • Code of Conduct Policy
    This policy sets down a number of the University’s minimum standards and obligations relating to the conduct and behaviour expected of members of the University community.
  • Exclusion — Rules Relating to Awards
    University-wide rule that determines how and why students can be excluded from their course and information on the appeals process should a student request a review of exclusion.
  • Rules — Fees, Charges and Sanctions
    This Rule establishes principles and processes related to student fees, charges and sanctions.
  • Rules Relating to Awards
    University-wide rules that apply to all courses of study. These rules cover almost all aspects of study from assessment items, appeals, extensions, special consideration, course completion, advanced standing and more.
  • Student Academic Experience Policy
    Describes how the University ensures a high quality, engaging and supportive academic experience for students over the lifecycle of their study, from enrolment to completion.
  • Student Handbook
    The Student Handbook contains specific award rules for each course at SCU. These rules detail the course structure and any rules specific to a given course. These should be read in conjunction with the Rules Relating to Awards which are applicable to all courses/awards at SCU.
  • Student Rights and Responsibilities Charter
    The Student Rights and Responsibilities Charter upholds the fundamental rights and outlines the responsibilities of students who undertake their education through Southern Cross University. The Charter recognises the University will abide by these rights and expects that students will abide by the responsibilities. It maintains that students need to be made aware of the Charter.
  • Student Academic and Non-Academic Misconduct Rules
    This rule sets out the procedures for investigating and determining allegations of misconduct by students, as well as penalties that may be applied and rights of review.
  • Support for Students with Additional Requirements - Procedures
    This Policy outlines the assistance available to students who have a disability.

Policies that apply to international onshore students

  • Course Progress and Completion Within Expected Duration of Study Policy
    This Policy establishes principles and processes to ensure compliance for international onshore students with the requirements of the Education Services for Overseas Students Act 2000 (as amended) and Standards 9 and 10 of the National Code of Practice for Registration Authorities and Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students 2007 (the National Code).
  • International Student Transfer Request Policy
    This policy establishes principles and processes to govern the assessment of student requests to transfer between registered education providers prior to their completing six months of the Principal Course of study specified in their Confirmation of Enrolment.
  • Welfare Arrangements of International Students Aged Under 18 Policy
    The purpose of this policy is to establish principles and processes for the University’s provision of appropriate accommodation, support and general welfare arrangements for international students who are under the age of 18 and who are not cared for in Australia by a parent, guardian or suitable nominated relative.