Frequently Asked Questions

The following are a list of frequently asked questions from across Student Affairs collected here in one place for your convenience. You can browse by topic/department or search by keyword.

Judicial Affairs and Community Standards, Frequently Asked Question From Parents

1. How can I learn how my student is doing?

The best approach is to discuss your student's status with your son or daughter directly. Communicating with young adults isn't easy and they are not always as forthcoming as you might like. The college years are a period of remarkable growth and maturation, and students' ability and willingness to share information and insights usually grows, particularly as they acquire the confidence that comes with assuming greater responsibility for their own lives.

2. How will I know if my student is subject to University disciplinary action?

The OJA will generally not contact parents to notify them about a disciplinary issue their student is having unless there is a specific concern about the student’s safety or the student’s disciplinary case has resulted in a sanction of probation or higher. While the OJA generally does not contact parents, students can give members of the OJA permission to speak with parents about their disciplinary issues if they choose to do so.

3. Who can I call if I have additional questions about student privacy rights?

The Office of Parent and Family Programs is a resource for all questions related to your student’s experiences at Columbia. Please feel free to contact the office by calling 212-854-2446.