Section 1: Code of Conduct for Students

Published for 2025-26

UCL enjoys a reputation as a world-class university. It was founded on the basis of equal opportunity, being the first English university to admit students irrespective of their faith and cultural background. It was the first university in England to admit women. UCL expects its members to conduct themselves at all times in a manner that does not bring UCL into disrepute, this includes conduct whilst not on UCL premises.

Good conduct means:

  • In general realising that you are an ambassador for UCL and behaving accordingly. This applies anywhere and at any time but is particularly important in the local community around UCL, whilst on fieldwork, whilst on other study away from UCL, on the sports field and whilst engaged in any other UCL-related activity.
  • Recognising the diversity of the UCL community and not discriminating against others on the basis of their age, ethnic origin, race, nationality, membership of a national minority, culture, language, religious faith or affiliation or lack thereof, political affiliation or opinions or lack thereof, sex, gender, gender identity, sexuality, sexual orientation, marital status, caring or parental responsibilities, illness, ability or disability, mental health status, medical condition, physical appearance, genetic features, parentage, descent, full or part-time student status, socio-economic background, employment status, trade union affiliation, spent or irrelevant criminal convictions or any other irrelevant distinction.
  • Acting responsibly, being honest, being considerate, respectful and courteous towards others. Behaving in a respectful manner towards others so that they do not feel that they are being harassed or bullied and abiding by the law.

Whilst learning:

  • Following the rules laid down by UCL for academic activity, the use of the Library, Information Services and other services.
  • Being punctual for classes and other appointments.
  • Informing the relevant person if you are going to be absent or delayed for an activity where you are expected to attend.
  • Being aware of the advice and assistance available on academic and other matters from sources such as personal, programme and Departmental Tutors.
  • Seeking help for yourself when you need it.

Around UCL:

  • Showing respect for UCL property.
  • Informing yourself of UCL health and safety policies and following them.
  • Playing your part in maintaining security and being prepared to produce your identity card when requested.
  • Caring for the environment at UCL by respecting buildings, spaces and facilities.
  • Recycling and disposing of litter responsibly.
  • Being aware of UCL’s advice for saving energy.
  • Showing consideration for others regarding noise (e.g. switching mobile phones off in classes).

Social and sporting behaviour:

  • Showing good sportsmanship whilst taking part in sporting activities.
  • Refraining from exhibiting displays of drunken or loutish behaviour.
  • Ensuring that any activity you engage in using the internet, including virtual learning environments (e.g. Moodle), social networking sites (e.g. Faceboook, Twitter etc.), blogs or other web resources, refrains from causing offence and could not be regarded as bullying or harassment.
  • Respecting the right of freedom of speech provided it is within the law.

Awareness and caring for others:

Links to other UCL policies that relate to conduct

Links to sources of advice and assistance