What happens if you plagiarise?
All students at the University of Glasgow are subject to a Code of Student Conduct which sets out what is, and what is not, acceptable for students to do. Plagiarism of any kind is not acceptable and is contrary to the Code of Student Conduct.
The Code also sets out what action can be taken against those who have breached the Code – this can include a reduced mark or a penalty grade H (effectively a 'zero’). Grade H for a core course or a core piece of work can mean you are unable to complete your degree.
You will have the right to appeal against the penalty; you will be given information on how to do this and on what grounds you may appeal. The rules are laid out fully in the Code of Student Conduct.
If you are notified about alleged plagiarism, we strongly encourage you to seek advice and support from the Students’ Representative Council. The SRC advisors have a good deal of experience in dealing with such cases.
If you are a non-honours student and this is your first offence
You will be asked to meet with your Head of School or his/her nominee to discuss the matter. You will receive a copy of your work with the suspected plagiarism highlighted. You will be able to take a supporter with you to the meeting and you will be asked to explain what has happened, and to advise of any extenuating circumstances. Circumstances already recognised by your School (e.g. if you have received an extension) may not be taken into account again. Someone from the School will be present to take notes. The Head of School (or their nominee) will decide whether plagiarism has occurred and, if so, what the penalty will be. You will be told of the outcome at the meeting and will receive it in writing within a week. Possible penalties might be a reduction in your mark, or a Grade H for the work. The Head of School will decide whether or not a resubmission will be allowed.
If you are an honours or postgraduate student, or you have been found guilty of plagiarism on a previous occasion
You will be asked to meet with two senior, independent academics and a member of the Student Conduct Team will take notes. You will receive a copy of your work with the suspected plagiarism highlighted. You will be able to take a supporter with you to the meeting and you will be asked to explain what has happened, and to advise of any extenuating circumstances. Any extenuating circumstances for which your School had given recognition may not be taken into account again. They will decide whether plagiarism has occurred and, if so, what the penalty will be. You will be told of the outcome at the meeting and will receive it in writing within a week. A penalty grade or reduction in your mark at this level may prevent you graduating with your degree.