1.1. Academic Rights and Responsibilities

Habib University is a community of learners founded on the right to freedom of thought and respectful exchange of ideas. Neither students nor faculty should be disadvantaged based on their political, religious, or other opinions. No member of the Habib University community will behave in any manner that infringes on the rights of any student or faculty to teach, learn, carry out research, or pursue creative or other activities connected to the University.

Students are expected to attend all classes, seminars, and labs and to follow any other reasonable course of study as determined by their instructors, academic advisors, or the Board of Faculty. Classroom assignments and course/degree requirements should be completed as prescribed to allow faculty enough time for adequate evaluation. Failure to fulfill these responsibilities may adversely affect course grades, cumulative grade point average (CGPA), and/or progress within the student’s degree program.

Academic dishonesty shall be considered a serious violation of these responsibilities and will be subject to strict disciplinary action as prescribed by Habib University’s Academic Integrity Policy. Academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to, cheating, plagiarism, and collusion.

Faculty shall evaluate student performance based on the expectations and the content of the class, lab, studio, or another course of study as defined and communicated to the students by the faculty member at the course’s outset. Students who feel that they have received a capricious or arbitrary grade can appeal said grade as defined elsewhere in this document.

1.2. University Statement of Anti-Discrimination

Habib University is committed to providing a learning environment free from discrimination and to nurturing a diverse and vibrant University community while respecting the fundamental dignity and worth of all of its members. Supporting this commitment, the University does not tolerate discrimination in any form and provides mechanisms for redress for students who feel they are being discriminated against.

Habib University does not discriminate against any person in the management and administration of its academic and admission policies, scholarship and financial aid programs, and other University-administered programs. Nor does the University permit the harassment of any student or applicant on the basis of race, color, sex, gender, religion, national origin, creed, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, partnership status, pregnancy, age, military status, or any other legally protected status.

The Office of Community Values and Standards (OCVS) is responsible for coordinating the University’s adherence to this policy and for complaint procedures in regard to discrimination or harassment.

1.3. Academic Accommodation

Habib University is committed to ensuring that all students can take part in educational programs and services and that no individual with special learning needs or medical condition shall, solely by reason of the disability, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity.

The University aims to provide this opportunity in a manner that meets national and international best practices. For more details and application procedure, please refer to Habib University’s “Reasonable Academic Accommodation” policy for students with special needs, which can be accessed through the given link or on the Student Portal.

1.4. Academic Advising

Academic Advising is a central element of the undergraduate experience at Habib University. Every student enrolled at Habib University is assigned two advisors:

1. A faculty advisor belonging to the student’s program; and
2. An academic advisor in the Office of Academic Performance (OAP), at the time of enrollment.

Advising is intended to be a collaborative relationship between a student and their advisors through which students create educational plans consistent with their personal, academic, and career goals. Students should meet with their advisors at least three times per semester to discuss their academic progress. Students who are struggling academically should first speak with their faculty and OAP advisors for guidance. Students who have been placed below good academic standing must meet with their faculty and academic advisor as described later in this document.

Advisors work closely with faculty to identify areas where support can be offered to students. An example of such a collaboration is the Early Alert system through which faculty informs advisors about identified students they feel could benefit from enhanced support.

A student’s faculty and academic advisors are listed in the University’s Campus Management System (PeopleSoft), available via the Student Portal at the University’s Intranet. Students wishing to change their advisor(s) should make a formal request to the Office of Academic Performance.

For more information about academic advising, and to connect with your advisor, please reach out to the Office of Academic Performance at oap@habib.edu.pk.

1.5. Declaration of a Major

All first-year students must declare their major at the time of admission.

1.6. Change of a Major

Students wishing to change their major must submit a “Change of Major” application form to the Office of Academic Systems & Registrar. A change of major application must be endorsed by the student’s academic advisor and the Office of Academic Performance and approved by the concerned Program Director/Assistant Dean.

Once the approval process is complete, a coursework/graduation plan must be submitted by the student to the Office of Academic Systems & Registrar based on the graduation requirements for the most recent catalog year of the new major. This plan must be developed in consultation with the student’s advisor(s) and the Office of Academic Performance.

The Office of Academic Systems & Registrar will process a change of major and notify the student and all concerned University offices, including the Office of Student Finance, for any financial adjustments needed that result from this change. Depending upon how many courses are transferred from the previous major to the new major, a change of major may result in lengthening the student’s stay at Habib University beyond eight semesters.

Note: Due to student enrollment limits placed on certain majors by their relevant accreditation councils, such as the Pakistan Engineering Council and the National Computing Education & Accreditation Council, endorsement by the Office of Undergraduate Education & Accreditation may additionally be required for a change of major request to be approved.

1.7. Declaration of a Minor

Minors give Habib University students the chance to pursue secondary specialization. A minor consists of a smaller set of courses within a well-defined area as determined by the awarding program and duly approved by the University’s Academic Council.

Students interested in completing a minor must declare their choice as early as possible, at the latest before the end of enrollment of their seventh semester, by submitting a Declaration of Minor Form to the Office of Academic Systems & Registrar.

1.8. Transfers

All transfer requests, including transfer of credit, will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Incoming students who have completed university-level coursework at other institutions may request a transfer of credits.

All students, regardless of their transfer status, must:

1. Satisfy the University’s Liberal Core requirements;
2. Spend at least four semesters at the University as full-time students before graduation; and
3. Fulfill transfer criteria as per the University and Higher Education Commission (HEC) policies.

Courses cannot be transferred to fulfil the mandatory Habib Liberal Core requirements.

Enrolled students at the University may submit a request for transfer of credits earned at other recognized institutions, for example through the University’s Learn Abroad program, to the Office of Academic Systems & Registrar. The Office of Academic Systems & Registrar processes the application, seeks necessary approvals, and notifies the student and all concerned departments/units accordingly.

Courses for which transfer of credits is approved appear on the student’s transcript with a “TR” (transfer) grade, which is not counted towards a student’s semester/cumulative GPA. Details of the process to transfer credits are available in Habib University’s Transfer of Credits Policy.

1.9. Attendance Policy

Class attendance is integral to student success and all Habib University students are expected to maintain 100% attendance in all classes in which they are enrolled. Attendance and absences will be recorded in the University’s Campus Management System (PeopleSoft – PSCS) using the biometric devices installed in all academic spaces.

Course instructors have the discretion to authorize students with legitimate excuses to be absent for the specified limit as mentioned in the syllabus for each course, not more than 15% of the total sessions, whereas instructors can choose to nominate a stricter attendance threshold for their individual courses as well.

It is the student’s responsibility to ensure the accuracy of their attendance records on PSCS. Students must review their attendance records regularly and, in case of discrepancies, must reach out to the relevant instructors to manually update/revise attendance records of a given class/session within seven (07) days of that class/session taking place. Attendance rosters will be permanently locked after seven days.

Attendance for (i) Habib Liberal Core courses and (ii) Program Core courses will count from the first day of classes, no matter when the student enrolls therein. As indicated in the OASR’s communications during the enrolment period, registering for/enrolling in Habib Liberal Core courses and Program Core courses as per their grid should be the student’s first priority. Attendance for other courses will count from the day the student enrolls in the class.

It is not the student’s right to be absent for more than 15%, or less as indicated by the faculty in the course syllabus and/or Office of Academic Systems & Registrar, of classes without adequate reason. Students should use the flexibility to miss classes judiciously for unforeseen circumstances. Late arrivals after five (05) minutes and early departures are marked absent by default.

Leaves are permitted only in cases of illness and family emergency. Students must inform the OASR and document their absence within one week of such absence from the relevant class and present tangible proof. In case of illness, the student must fill in the medical leave of absence application form.

If absences of a student fall between 15% and 25%, the OASR will review the proof document and seek feedback of the instructor before allowing the student to continue. Absences beyond 25% will result in the automatic removal of the student from the course and the student will be awarded a “W-A” or “F-A” grade.

• Students who are found to be short of attendance in a course during attendance audits conducted before the withdrawal deadline will be withdrawn from that course. A “W-A” (Withdrawn on account of low attendance) grade will be assigned to the student for that course.
• Students who are found to be short of attendance in a course during attendance audits conducted after the withdrawal deadline will fail that course. An “F-A” (Failed on account of low attendance) grade will be assigned to the student for that course.

Note: The “W-A” grade is different from the “W” grade which a student earns on account of withdrawing from a course themselves before the course withdrawal deadline of the semester (12th week). The “F-A” grade is different from the “F” grade which a student earns on failing a course for any reason other than being short of attendance in each course. Details of grades and their definitions are provided in section 1.15.

Students are requested to review the Student Attendance Policy for more details regarding the policy and processes followed.

1.9.1. Medical Leave of Absence (MLA) Application

Students may apply for medical leave for issues of a medical nature, including injury, illness, mental health and/or substance-related issues, of either short or long term, and must provide appropriate documentation.

Any student on short-term leave should arrange with instructors to make up any missed work, where possible. Any student on medical leave for the duration of a currently enrolled term will receive non-punitive withdrawal grades regardless of the point in the semester at which the leave is granted.

The standard refund and financial liability policy applies in cases of medical leave. The application for medical leave must be submitted no later than three (03) days from the certificate date. The Medical Leave of Absence form is available for all students on the Student Portal.

1.10. Interim Withdrawal/Leave of Absence

A request for a leave of absence will be granted if a student cannot register for classes for a regular semester, spring or fall semester, for documented reasons. Students should consult with their academic advisor and the Office of Academic Performance before applying for Interim Withdrawal/Leave of Absence from the University.

A leave of absence is good for up to one academic year and may be renewed only once for up to one more year. To file for a leave of absence, an Interim Withdrawal/Leave of Absence Request Form may be obtained from the Office of Academic Systems & Registrar and must be signed by the academic advisor and the concerned Assistant Dean of the school. If the student has not declared a major, the Director of Academic Performance will approve the application.

Students taking Interim Withdrawal/Leave of Absence must consider that the Higher Education Commission (HEC) requires students to be enrolled in at least eight (08) regular semesters to complete a four-year bachelor’s degree. Hence, students proceeding on Leave of Absence will have to complete the required semester count as one of the degree requirements.

1.11. Maximum and Minimum Course Load

Full-time students at Habib University must register for a minimum of twelve (12) credit hours in a semester to maintain full-time status. The maximum allowable course load per semester is twenty (20) credit hours. Failure to maintain full-time status may affect a student’s financial aid and scholarship.

1.11.1. Exceptions

• Students with a cumulative GPA (CGPA) of 3.0 and above may submit a petition to the Committee on Academic Standing to enroll in an additional course beyond the maximum allowable limit, referred to as a credit/course overload. Students allowed to take a course overload may be charged an additional fee.
• Students undergoing difficult personal circumstances, such as health concerns, may also petition the Committee on Academic Standing to be allowed to enroll in less than the minimum allowable limit, referred to as a credit/course underload.
• Students who have completed their seven regular semesters and require less than 12 credits in order to complete their degree requirements in their eighth semester may enroll in at least eight (08) credit hours without petitioning the Committee on Academic Standing.

Note: In either case of underload and overload, students must consult with the Office of Student Finance for details of the financial implications of course overload and underload.

1.12. Mid-Term and Final Examination Policies

1.12.1. Final Examinations

Final examinations are held at the end of each semester during the exam weeks designated in the University’s academic calendar, and are regulated either by the University’s “Examination Policy” or “Online Examination Policy,” as the case may be. The final examination schedule is announced by the Office of Academic Systems & Registrar.

All students registered in a course for which a final exam is given must attempt the exam at the scheduled time unless an exception is approved by the Vice President, Academic Affairs.

1.12.2. Midterm Examinations

The schedule of midterm exams, whether within or outside the scheduled class hours, is announced by the instructor and conducted during the midterm week announced by the Office of Academic Systems & Registrar before the start of each semester.

For courses in which more than one midterm exam is administered, one midterm exam will be scheduled during the allocated week for midterm exams, unless announced otherwise by the instructor. Exams are announced in the course syllabus distributed to the class during the first week of classes.

1.12.3. Missed Examination

All students are expected to complete their assessments, including exams, within the specified time and by the dates communicated to them by their course instructors, as indicated in the course syllabi or in the examination schedule published by the Office of Academic Systems & Registrar.

Students may request a make-up exam based on religious obligation, serious illness, or family emergency. Exams will not be rescheduled to accommodate travel, family plans, or employment commitments.

A student who misses an exam without a pre-approved alternate arrangement will receive a zero (0) mark in that exam. All make-up exams must be given before the official close of the semester.

1.12.4. Religious Accommodation

Habib University recognizes that the examination schedule may conflict with some religious observations. In such cases, the University will make reasonable efforts to accommodate the affected students by providing alternative times or methods to attempt the exam(s).

Students should review the syllabus for each of their courses at the beginning of each semester to determine if personal religious observance may conflict with the scheduled exam(s). In case of conflict with a midterm exam, the student must submit to the instructor a statement describing the religious conflict, specifying the dates and times, by the end of the semester enrollment period.

If a suitable arrangement cannot be worked out between the student and the instructor, they should consult the concerned Program Director.

In case of a religious conflict with a final examination, the student must submit a written statement to the instructor, the concerned Program Director, and the Office of Academic Systems & Registrar. In such a case, any approved make-up examination may be scheduled after the final examination period.

If a student fails to follow this procedure or fails to give timely notice of conflict and subsequently misses the examination, no make-up examination will be given, and the student will receive a grade of zero in that exam.

1.13. Course Lettering and Numbering

All courses are designated by a letter prefix denoting the program/subject area in which the course originates. The prefix code is followed by a three-digit sequence denoting the course level.

Levels are designated as follows:

Usually, 100- and 200-level courses are categorized as lower-division/lower-level, whereas 300- and 400-level courses are categorized as upper-division/upper-level courses.

1.14. Cross-Listed Courses

Cross-listed courses are courses jointly offered by multiple, different programs. Cross-listed courses are aimed at promoting interdisciplinary learning and offer flexibility in course selection. Approved cross-listed courses shall have the prefixes of all the participating programs.

1.15. Grades

1.15.1. Grades and their Numerical Equivalents

1.15.2. Grade Point Average (GPA)

GPA stands for Grade Point Average, and it is a numerical representation of a student’s academic performance in the University. It is calculated by assigning a numerical value to each letter grade received in individual courses and then averaging those values to determine an overall GPA.

At the conclusion of each semester during a student’s tenure at the University, grade point average will be reported in two ways:

• Semester GPA (SGPA): GPA for a single semester only;
• Cumulative GPA (CGPA): A cumulative GPA for the entire duration of the student’s enrollment.

Semester and cumulative GPAs are calculated only for courses attended at the University. In some cases, GPAs might be calculated for a school, program, concentration, or major. However, these specialized GPAs will not appear on a student’s transcript.

1.15.3. Calculating GPA

The formula for calculating GPA or CGPA is to divide the Total Quality Points (TQPs) earned in all courses by the Total Attempted Credits (TACs).

GPA = Total Quality Points (TQP) ÷ Total Earned Credits

Quality Points (QP) for a course equal the sum of earned course credit hours multiplied by the numeric value of the letter grade earned in the course, as per the grading scale. Total Quality Points is the sum of Quality Points of all the courses that are included in the calculation of GPA.

Note:

• Grades A+, A, A-, B+, B, B-, C+, C, C-, F and F-A earned in a course shall be counted towards the calculation of SGPA and CGPA.
• Grades F or F-A replaced by R or R*, upon repeating a course, shall not be counted towards the calculation of SGPA and CGPA.
• The following grades shall not be counted towards the calculation of SGPA or CGPA:
  • Audit (AU);
  • Withdraw (W);
  • Withdrawal on Account of Low Attendance (W-A);
  • Incomplete (I);
  • Transfer (TR);
  • Credit (CR);
  • Non-Credit (NCR); and
  • Pass (P).
• In case of a change of major, grades of the following courses earned while pursuing the previous major will be transferred to the new major and will be counted towards the calculation of CGPA:
  • All Liberal Core Courses, irrespective of grade(s) earned;
  • Courses from the previous major that can count as free electives;
  • Any course that satisfies the requirement of the new major; and
  • Cross-listed courses if they satisfy the requirements of the new major.
• In case of a change of major, the courses and respective grades which are not transferred to the new major will also be listed on the transcript, but their grades and credit hours will not be counted towards the calculation of CGPA. All passing grades of courses not transferred will be recorded as CR and failing grades will be recorded as NCR or R, as per the number of attempts made for a failing course.

1.15.4. First Semester Grades

The first semester is the transition semester from high school to a university environment for first-year students. The transition requires them to learn new skills, adjust to a new environment, understand university expectations, and learn to manage themselves as independent learners.

This policy has been developed to allow for an enriching first-semester experience, without the pressure of maintaining a high semester grade point average (GPA) required to be in good academic standing.

• Students’ aggregate scores in a course will be converted into CR for a pass grade and NCR for an F grade for all courses attended in their first semester at Habib University.
• The cut-off for CR will be equivalent to the passing grade as described in the grading scheme of the most recent course catalog.
• Aggregate scores are awarded to determine CR/NCR status. These will not be recorded in the students’ transcript or in any other official document.
• CR/NCR will not be included in the calculation of the final Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) that appears on a student’s transcript. However, the number of credits earned during the first semester will be counted in the total credits required to graduate.
• Students earning an NCR in one or more first-semester course(s) may repeat the same course(s), or equivalent, in subsequent semesters. For such courses, the grading policy of CR/NCR shall continue to apply.
• First-semester CR/NCR grades will be considered in assessing students’ academic standing status. First-year students receiving one (01) NCR or more in the first semester will be placed on Academic Warning as per the University’s Policy on Academic Standing.
• Habib University’s financial commitment to first-year students, if any, will not be affected by their first-semester grades.
• First-year students will be considered eligible for student employment in the second semester of their study at Habib University if they earn CR in all their first-semester courses.

1.15.5. Incomplete (I) Grade

Students are expected to complete all academic coursework and assignments during a semester, at the latest by the last day of classes for that semester.

If a student is unable to complete a course due to serious illness or exceptional circumstances beyond their control, and the work completed to date is of passing quality, they may ask the respective faculty to request an Incomplete “I” grade in that course, provided that the grade gives no undue advantage to that student.

However, if a sizable portion of the course, typically constituting 25% thereof, remains incomplete by the deadline for incomplete requests/petitions, the petition is likely to be denied. Incomplete grades are not a privilege and are only awarded to students under exceptional circumstances; they cannot be awarded as part of a course’s assessment and grading policy.

The procedure for an Incomplete or “I” grade is as follows:

i. Student-Faculty Meeting

The student is expected to first meet with the faculty member of the course to determine if the outstanding work can realistically be completed within six (06) weeks after the last day of exams for the semester. This meeting needs to take place in advance of the deadline for incomplete grade requests.

Under exceptional circumstances, where students are unable to meet with the faculty member, for example if the student is hospitalized, the faculty member may submit the petition for an incomplete request on behalf of the student, indicating why the meeting with the student has not occurred. Only the instructor can submit the incomplete request and must do so no later than the last day of examinations for the semester.

ii. Review of Incomplete Petitions

Before making a decision, the Associate Dean for Academic Systems may request to meet with the student and faculty member to discuss the incomplete request and to clarify arrangements for the completion of outstanding work.

The Associate Dean may also request documentation from the student or faculty member if documentation has not been provided and/or is deemed necessary. Students and faculty will be notified of the Associate Dean’s decision regarding the incomplete request by email.

If the request for an incomplete grade is approved, an “I” grade will be entered in the student’s record for the course. Incomplete grades are not calculated into a student’s grade point average for the semester. A formal letter grade to replace the I grade must be processed within six (06) weeks of the final day of examinations for the semester in which the I grade was awarded.

1.15.6. Change of Grades

Grades awarded at the end of a semester/term for each course are considered final. Instructors may submit to the Office of Academic Systems & Registrar a Change-of-Grade request clearly mentioning the reason for which a change of grade is needed, which can only be due to a calculation or clerical error.

Change-of-grade requests are reviewed by the Associate Dean of Academic Systems and approved by the Vice President, Academic Affairs. Change-of-Grade requests must be submitted by the course instructor at the latest by the end of the subsequent semester.

1.16. Course Repeat Policy

Students are permitted to repeat any course offered by the University in the following cases:

1. To pass a course in which an “F,” “W,” “W-A,” “W-F,” or “NCR” grade was received;
2. To improve their original passing grade to satisfy a graduation requirement; or
3. To improve their original grade to improve their CGPA.

A student is permitted to retake a course only two (02) times, for a total of three (03) attempts. All attempts will be recorded on the student’s transcript, but only the best-earned grade will be counted towards GPA.

All other attempts will be recorded with an “R” grade, denoting Repeat. “W” and “W-A” grades in a course count as an attempt and will continue to remain on the transcript even if the student repeats the course.

The University is not obligated to re-offer elective courses, but courses defined as graduation requirements, for example Habib Liberal Core or program core requirements, must be re-offered or, if the course has been significantly redesigned or discontinued, must have an equivalent course.

The grade(s) earned in the discontinued course will be recorded on the transcript with an “R*,” denoting that the original course has been discontinued and the requirement is met with a new course.

Students failing to clear courses required by their chosen program, especially those that are prerequisite(s) for later courses, may be unable to graduate within eight (08) regular semesters and must seek advice from their academic advisor and the program.

The Office of Academic Performance (OAP) shall provide additional advising and academic support, in collaboration with the offering program, on a case-by-case basis. Students failing a required course twice should consider the chosen field of study and seek advice from their academic and OAP advisors about the future course of action.

A course repeat fee may be charged for any repeated course, regardless of the reason for a repeat.

1.17. Summer Semester

Summer semesters are offered at Habib University in addition to the regular semesters. The semester dates, course offerings, and enrollment are announced and handled by the Office of Academic Systems & Registrar.

Full-time students at Habib University may enroll in courses offered in the summer semester to:

• Repeat a course if an “F,” “W,” “W-A,” “F-A,” or “NCR” grade was awarded for that course previously;
• Improve the grade for a previously attended course; or
• Attend any additional courses other than those required to fulfill requirements of a major program offered at Habib University, for example to fulfill requirements of a minor.

Students may enroll in a maximum of two (02) courses, or eight (08) Credit Hours, in a summer semester at the University.

All University academic policies and regulations, including the Attendance and Academic Standing policies, will continue to apply as in the regular semesters. All financial policies for the summer semester, including tuition, fees if applicable, and financial aid are announced by the Office of Student Finance.

1.18. Auditing a Course

Students may audit a course for self-enrichment and academic exploration. An audited course will appear on the transcript with an “AU” (audit) grade. An audited course does not earn a grade or credit, is not included in the calculation of GPA, and does not count toward the minimum course load required for continuous enrollment.

Students registering for a course for credit have priority over those wishing to audit the course. A student auditing a course may be asked to drop the course during the semester enrollment period if another student wants to enroll in the course for credit.

Audit courses do not fulfill degree requirements, but the credit value of audited courses may be included in the semester load for determining fees and the maximum number of credits carried each semester.

An audited course cannot be used to meet the pre- or co-requisite condition of another course. The extent to which a student may or may not be required to participate in the audited course, including attendance or engagement, is determined by the instructor prior to enrollment.

For example, the instructor may decide if a student auditing a course will be permitted to take exams, submit assignments, and have them evaluated. Students choosing to audit a laboratory course may be required to pay the additional lab fee.

The process for registering to audit a course is the same as registering for a course for credit, along with the following additional requirements:

• Students wishing to audit a course must obtain approvals from the course instructor and their academic advisor and submit them to the Office of Academic Systems & Registrar using the Add/Drop course form before the end of the enrollment period.
• For courses with a laboratory component, approval from the lab instructor must also be obtained.
• The program that offers the course may have additional requirements. Students wishing to audit the course should contact the concerned Program Director for information about these requirements.

Changing a course status from audit to credit, from credit to audit, or dropping an audit course must be done during the semester enrollment period. A student wishing to change from credit to audit status must meet the additional requirements of registering for an audit course.

An additional fee may be applicable for auditing a course if a student exceeds the maximum allowable course load. Students on financial aid should bear in mind that any fee for auditing a course may not be covered in their financial aid package.

It is the student’s responsibility to resolve all financial matters related to auditing a course by contacting the agency administering the scholarship or the Office of Student Finance.

1.19. Academic Standing, Probation, and Dismissal Policies

Habib University requires that all students maintain good academic standing. Academic standing is determined by academic performance and is measured through cumulative grade point average (CGPA).

Failure to maintain good academic standing may result in an academic warning, first academic probation, final probation, or dismissal. At each stage, students below Good Academic Standing are provided learning support and advice to achieve Good Academic Standing.

The Academic Standing Policy defines Good Academic Standing and identifies the circumstances under which a student is placed on Academic Warning, First Academic Probation, or Final Academic Probation, and the consequences of these standings.

1.19.1. Good Academic Standing

Students who maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average (CGPA) as per the University’s graduation requirement, i.e. 2.33, whilst enrolled in a minimum of twelve (12) credit hours per semester, or less if approved by the Committee on Academic Standing, are in Good Academic Standing.

Students who do not maintain Good Academic Standing will not be eligible for the following:

• Habib University’s Learn Abroad or Research Abroad programs;
• Dean’s Honors List of the University in a given regular semester;
• Student employment opportunities; or
• Scholarship and/or financial aid.

1.19.2. Academic Alert

The following two categories of students, while still in Good Academic Standing, will be considered on Academic Alert:

• Students who maintain a CGPA between 2.33 and 2.67; and
• Students who maintain a CGPA above 2.33 but whose semester GPA (SGPA) falls below 2.33 in any semester.

An Academic Alert triggers interventions by the Office of Academic Performance (OAP) and concerned academic programs. It is intended to provide timely academic support to prevent a student from falling below Good Academic Standing.

As per the University’s Policy on Academic Standing, students and their parents/guardians are informed if their academic standing falls below Good Academic Standing.

1.19.3. Academic Warning

Students will be placed on Academic Warning in one or more of the following situations:

• Their CGPA falls below 2.33;
• First-year students receive one or more NCR (non-credit fail) grades in the first semester; or
• They enroll in less than 12 credit hours without approval from the Committee on Academic Standing.

Students will return to Good Academic Standing if they meet the requisite conditions as defined under Good Academic Standing. Students on Academic Warning are strongly encouraged to meet with their academic advisor in OAP and their faculty advisor for counseling and advice.

1.19.4. First Academic Probation

Students already issued an Academic Warning will be placed on First Academic Probation if they fail to return to Good Academic Standing by the end of the semester in which they were given the warning.

A student will return to Good Academic Standing if they meet the requisite conditions, as defined under Good Academic Standing. Students on First Academic Probation must meet with their academic advisor in OAP and their faculty advisor regularly during the semester.

1.19.5. Final Academic Probation

Students will be placed on Final Academic Probation if they fail to achieve Good Academic Standing by the end of the semester in which they were placed on First Academic Probation.

Students on Final Academic Probation will remain actively enrolled but under the direct supervision of OAP and the relevant Program Director.

Students on Final Academic Probation will only be allowed to enroll in twelve (12) to fourteen (14) credit hours and may not enroll in any new course(s) unless their required repeat courses are not available.

Students will enroll only in the courses suggested by their academic and faculty advisors. They will also undergo any additional intervention plan mandated by the Office of Academic Performance and the relevant faculty advisor and Program Director.

Students will return to Good Academic Standing if they meet the required conditions, as defined under Good Academic Standing.

1.19.6. Academic Dismissal

Students on Final Academic Probation will be dismissed from the University if they fail to achieve the CGPA required to maintain Good Academic Standing by the end of the semester in which they were placed on Final Academic Probation.

Students dismissed for academic reasons are not eligible for re-admission to the University nor a tuition refund.

1.19.7. Academic Standing of Students Changing Major

The academic standing of students who change their major will be determined using the GPA of courses relevant to their new major.

1.20. Graduation Requirements

A student applying for graduation must satisfy all University requirements regardless of the degree or major in which they are enrolled. Besides University requirements, students are required to fulfill program-specific requirements identified by their respective programs.

1.20.1. Curriculum Requirements

1. University Liberal Core: A student must complete all requirements of the Habib Liberal Core, as described in the Course Catalog of the induction year.
2. Program-Specific Requirements: A student must complete all requirements of their respective major, as described in the Course Catalog of the induction year.
3. Minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA): Students must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.33 at the time of graduation.
4. Minimum Credit Hours Requirement for the Class of 2029:

Note regarding Transfer of Credits: All transfers of credits must be processed in accordance with the Habib University Transfer of Credits Policy by the last day of enrollment in the Spring semester of the fourth year.

For other curricular and program-specific requirements, please refer to the graduation requirement grid of the program in this catalog.

Subject to the requirements of the accreditation bodies, the minimum credit-hour requirements may change for specific batches.

For Communication and Design, requirements are subject to the concentration chosen. See the section on Communication and Design for more details.

1.20.2. Good Standing

In addition to the University requirements, a student must be in:

• Good Academic Standing as defined in the Academic Standing Policy stated in the Course Catalog and any subsequent addendums;
• Good Conduct Standing as defined in the Conduct Standing Policy; and
• Good Financial Standing as defined by the Financial Standing Policy.

1.20.3. Declaration of Minor(s) Submission Deadlines

Students must declare any minor(s) before submitting their “Intent to Graduate.” Otherwise, the minor may not appear on the final transcript.

1.20.4. Finances

Students are expected to settle all financial obligations to the University.

1.20.5. Intent to Graduate Submission Deadline

The deadline to submit the “Intent to Graduate” form is the last day of enrollment in the Fall semester of the fourth year.

1.21. Code of Conduct

Habib University’s Student Code of Conduct is a set of rules and guidelines that govern the behavior of students at the University. This code outlines what is expected of students in terms of ethical and professional conduct, and includes guidelines on academic integrity, plagiarism, theft, dishonesty, vandalism, verbal and physical assault, public display of affection, cyberbullying and harassment, drug and alcohol use, and other issues.

Violations of the Code of Conduct can result in strict disciplinary action, including penalties, suspension, or even expulsion.

Habib University is committed to providing a safe and healthy learning environment to all its community members to ensure their personal, emotional, social, professional, and academic well-being. The University is committed to fostering an environment of active citizenship where people fulfill their individual and collective responsibilities to maintain a safe, healthy, and respectful environment.

Students are responsible individuals and members of the Habib University community. The Code of Conduct defines the general standard of conduct expected of students in accordance with the Yohsin values and outlines a set of social norms or rules and responsibilities that all students must abide by.

The Code applies to conduct violations that occur on campus or elsewhere, namely University-sponsored programs or activities and/or events or activities where the alleged student was representing the University in any capacity. Students are expected to be aware of and behave in accordance with this Code.

The Student Code of Conduct applies to all students enrolled/registered at the University for any degree-awarding program, non-degree-awarding program, or activity.

The Code of Conduct covers, and is not limited to, the following subjects:

1.21.1. Academic Integrity

Academic integrity is the commitment to, and demonstration of, honest and responsible behavior in an academic setting for all academic work. As a preeminent institution of higher education, Habib University considers violations of academic integrity as major infractions.

Students who present or submit work that is not their own, or deceive their peers, colleagues, and teachers by cheating or presenting the works of others as their own, commit serious violations of the University’s Code of Conduct and may be awarded significant sanctions if such academic dishonesty is proven.

Academic integrity violations, procedures for filing academic complaints, processes for complaint resolution, and appeals are available in the Academic Integrity Policy and are administered by the Office of Community Values & Standards.

Substance Use and Abuse

The use, possession, sale, or purchase of any drug, narcotics, or any other illicit substances, or supporting any such act at the University campus, at University-managed spaces outside the campus, and at any other places while representing the University, is strictly prohibited.

This also includes alcoholic beverages while on University property, participating in University-sponsored activities, or representing the University anywhere.

1.21.2. Smoking

Habib University is committed to providing a safe and healthy learning environment for all members of the Habib community. To fulfill this commitment, smoking is not allowed in the University or around the University gates except in designated areas.

1.21.3. Public Display of Affection

Public Display of Affection (PDA) is any gesture considered sexual/romantic as per cultural norms and takes place at a location open to other community members.

The University expects students to refrain from such displays of affection on campus, at any University-managed locations, or while representing the University at events or field trips beyond the University campus.

1.21.4. Student Conduct Process

Any member of the University community may report instances of alleged misconduct to the Office of Community Values and Standards by filing an online incident report form.

After an incident report is received, the student(s) will be notified by the Office of Community Values & Standards (OCVS) via email. Student(s) need to respond to this notification and take the necessary action as outlined in the email.

The detailed process is available for all students in the Student Code of Conduct on the Student Portal. For any questions, students may contact OCVS directly at cvs@habib.edu.pk.

1.22. Academic & Non-Academic Grievances

1.22.1. Academic Grievance

An academic grievance is a formal complaint made by a student regarding a problem or issue related to their academic experience at the University. This can include issues such as grade disputes, discrimination, or violations of academic policies.

Habib University is committed to providing a method of redress for legally impermissible, arbitrary, or discriminatory practices. This procedure is meant to provide students with an avenue for addressing concerns not mentioned in other University policies and/or procedures.

1.22.2. Academic Grievance Resolution Process

The process for resolving an academic grievance is as follows:

1. The student’s first action should be to try to resolve the issue informally by speaking with the instructor involved. If the issue is not resolved, the student should proceed to speak to the relevant Program Director, and then the relevant Assistant Dean if the issue persists.
2. If the issue cannot be resolved informally, the student can file a formal complaint or grievance using the University’s online grievance form available on the Student Portal.
3. All academic grievances will be reviewed and referred to the University Grievance Committee by the Office of Community Values & Standards for further action. Students may be required to provide additional evidence to support their grievance.

1.22.3. Non-Academic Grievance

A non-academic grievance refers to a complaint or dispute that is not related to academic issues such as grades or course content.

Non-academic grievances refer to issues that arise due to either an inherent fault in a policy or procedure of the University or due to the institution’s failure to adhere to or administer its policies and/or procedures correctly, where the grievant suffered significant harm or injury.

1.22.4. Non-Academic Grievance Resolution Process

The Office of Community Values & Standards handles all non-academic grievances and their resolution. For any questions related to non-academic grievances, students may contact OCVS at cvs@habib.edu.pk.

1.23. Prevention of Sexual Harassment

Habib University exhibits zero-tolerance behavior towards any form of harassment, whether sexual or not, committed through verbal or physical, online or offline, means or modes that take place on campus or off campus where official capacity is identified.

The policy of the University has been designed to be in congruence with the applicable laws, rules, and regulations of Pakistan. The laws include:

1. Protection of Women Against Harassment at the Workplace Act, 2010 and the Prevention of Harassment at the Workplace Amendment 2022; and
2. The Higher Education Commission Policy on Protection Against Sexual Harassment in Higher Education Institutions.

The University, in accordance with the above-mentioned policies, defines sexual harassment as follows.

1.23.1. Defining Sexual Misconduct

Sexual harassment includes unwelcome verbal, written, or physical behavior of a sexual nature targeted towards an individual because of that person’s gender or based on gender stereotypes.

Unwelcome behaviors include, but are not limited to, lewd jokes or remarks, verbal innuendos, repeated and unwelcome flirtations or advances, display of pornographic content with the intent to harass, indecent exposure, unwanted physical contact, threats of a sexual nature, repeated demands for an unwelcome romantic or sexual relationship, and/or forced or non-consensual sexual contact.

Sexual harassment also occurs when consent to unwelcome sexual advances is induced by blackmail with either positive or negative consequences for the victim’s education, employment, working, or learning environment.

Harassment may also include creating a generally hostile or demeaning environment for working and learning as retribution when sexual overtures and advances are rejected.

The complete policy pertaining to education and awareness on prevention of sexual harassment can be found in Habib University’s Prevention of Sexual Harassment Policy.

1.23.2. Initial Reporting & Designated Reporting Officers for Harassment Cases

Whenever current members of the Habib University community, defined as currently enrolled students, alumni of Habib, faculty members or staff under current contract or on authorized leave, or invited guests of Habib University, believe that they either have been or may be becoming targets of sexual harassment or sexual misconduct, they should report the incident as soon as possible but no longer than 365 calendar days since the last incident of sexual harassment or misconduct.

The statute of limitations for initiating a report under this policy shall be no longer than 365 calendar days since the most recent incident of sexual harassment or misconduct.

Complainants may choose to report either formally to the Habib University Sexual Harassment Inquiry Committee or initiate an informal conversation with a Designated Reporting Officer.

If a formal report is filed directly with the Sexual Harassment Inquiry Committee, the Chair of the committee will refer the case to the appropriate Conduct Officer as outlined under this policy.

In cases where the complainant wishes to pursue the informal route initially, they should report the matter and have confidential conversations with any of the officially Designated Reporting Officers. For the most recent list of Designated Reporting Officers, please consult the Student Portal.

1.24. University Records

Habib University maintains students’ educational records and ensures their right to access, and the privacy of information maintained in, these records. The following guidelines provide procedures for maintenance of and access to student educational records held by the University.

1.24.1. Definitions

For these guidelines, the terms used herein are defined as follows:

Education Record: Any record, document, or material maintained by the University, either directly or through a third party, that contains information directly related to the student, which is recorded on any medium including, but not limited to, handwriting, print, audio, video, tapes, or electronic storage.

However, the definition of education record does not include:

• Records that are maintained by University officials in their personal capacity and are not available to others;
• Records established and maintained by campus security;
• Employment records of students employed by the University;
• Records maintained by the Health and Wellness Center when the records are maintained solely for the purpose of treatment of the student; and
• Records maintained after the person is no longer a student, such as alumni records.

Parent: The natural parent, guardian, or an agent nominated by the parent/guardian to act as such.

University Official: An individual employed by the University in an administrative, supervisory, academic, research, or support staff position; a member of the Board of Governors; an individual performing special tasks for the University, such as an attorney or auditor; a contractor, consultant, volunteer, or other outside party providing institutional services; and an individual serving on an official University committee, such as a disciplinary committee, or assisting the University in the performance of official tasks.

Personally Identifiable Information: Any information linked or linkable to a student that, alone or in combination, would allow an individual of the campus community, who does not personally know the student, to identify the student with reasonable certainty.

Legitimate Educational Interest: An individual has a legitimate educational interest in education records if the information or record is relevant and necessary to the accomplishment of some employment or other institutional task, service, or function.

Disclosure: To permit access to, release, transfer, or communicate students’ education records or personally identifiable information contained in those records.

1.24.2. Disclosure to Parents

The University reserves the right to release educational records to parents of students as per the University’s “Parental Access and Notification” Policy. The University does not require a student’s consent to disclose information related to:

• The student’s violation of local or federal laws;
• The policies of the University;
• Information about the academic standing of the student; or
• Any disciplinary action taken against the student.

1.24.3. Disclosure to Third Party

The University does not disclose information to any third party without the written consent of the student or otherwise covered in this policy. Some examples of requests for which the University does not require the written consent of the student are listed below:

• If requested by a University office for legitimate educational use;
• If requested by another school where the student seeks or intends to enroll, or is already enrolled;
• Under a judicial order or lawfully issued notice in litigation against the University, or for disciplinary action against the student;
• In connection with the Financial Aid Program as necessary to determine eligibility for the amount or conditions of the aid, or to enforce the terms and conditions of the aid;
• When needed for collection of financial obligations to the University in case of delinquency of payment by the student; or
• In case of threat of harm to self or others.

1.25. Official Communication with Students

Official communication with students will be through the University email.

Students are responsible for checking their University-provided email accounts frequently and consistently and for adhering to deadlines contained in emails from the University and/or its faculty or staff members.

The University is not bound to respond to a student via a non-University email account.

Communication with parents will be through courier or phone. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure all contact information is kept current by reporting any changes to the Office of Academic Systems & Registrar.

1.26. Habib Technological Services

Habib University has on board top-notch technologies to fulfill pedagogical, instructional, research, administrative, and mission-development needs, alongside an eye on the future to ensure continual improvement.

The IT resources include:

• A digital card for access to campus spaces;
• A unique digital ID, using a single ID and password for all applications;
• A dedicated Wi-Fi network and local area network;
• Personal computers in labs and the library; and
• Printers/photocopiers.

1.26.1. Teaching and Learning Applications

In addition, Habib University uses several applications to support teaching and learning at the University. These include, but are not limited to:

As users, students have access to valuable University IT resources, sensitive data, and internal and external networks. Consequently, it is important for students to act in a responsible, ethical, and legal manner. In general, acceptable use means respecting the rights of other computer users and the integrity of the physical facilities.

The University encourages the use of electronic communications to share information and knowledge in support of the University’s mission of education, research, and public service, and to conduct the University’s business.

To this end, the University supports and provides interactive electronic communications services and facilities for telecommunications, mail, publishing, and broadcasting. A safe and civil environment is necessary for students to be successful in their educational pursuits.

To make the best use of IT resources, an IT handbook is available on the Student Portal to guide students through the essential IT systems and services that can be used on any device, anywhere, at any time.

1.26.2. Service Desk

The Service Desk is the central point of contact for students for any queries and issues pertaining to facilities and services provided by the institution. The desk receives, processes, and responds to service requests and calls during business hours.

The Service Desk can be reached by emailing servicedesk@habib.edu.pk, calling extension 4224, or visiting https://servicedesk.habib.edu.pk/.

Students can also visit the Help Desk on the ground floor of the library or the third-floor administration office during business hours.