Download Student Handbook

The University Preparatory Program was established by the King Faisal Foundation and is affiliated with Alfaisal University in Riyadh. It is developed, implemented and managed in collaboration with America-Mideast Educational and Training Services, Inc. (AMIDEAST), a nonprofit American organization that has provided educational services in the Middle East and North Africa since 1951.

UPP is a highly selective academic program that prepares students to pursue higher education at competitive universities in Saudi Arabia and around the world. Our mission is to train students in a stimulating academic environment to become life-long learners, critical thinkers, and problem solvers able to succeed in institutions of higher learning.

Incorporating modern educational technology and teaching methods, this newly established program gives promising high school graduates the skills they need to enter and succeed in world-class universities. UPP is much more than just a school—it’s an investment in the future. Your future!

At UPP, students are our top priority. Our international faculty brings a vast collective professional experience that serves to enhance and inspire student learning. Through the Office of Student Services, students receive academic and career advice, and additional help is available for those who may be struggling academically. Visiting professionals expose students to career options in various fields. Extracurricular activities—including clubs, sports, and social activities—enrich campus life and promote a collegial atmosphere. UPP encourages not only the academic advancement of each student, but also the development of confident graduates prepared to meet future challenges.

UPP’s approach is unique:

• English is the sole medium of instruction for all subjects and laboratory sessions.
• Students are exposed to fundamental content knowledge and laboratory-based experiential learning.
• Instruction is student-centered, where students assume an active and constructive role in their own learning and understanding.
• The UPP curriculum is based on the integration of English language training, the sciences, mathematics, and information technology. Students follow one of three pathways that prepare them for university majors in medicine, engineering, and business.
• All academic courses emphasize skills development in learning techniques, written and spoken communication, leadership, time management, and critical thinking.
• Students are placed in courses according to their performance in standardized tests and proficiency in English language. Individualized attention is given to students who may find the courses challenging.
• Preparation for standardized tests helps students maximize their achievement on SAT I, SAT Subject Tests, TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), TOEIC, and Advanced Placement (AP) exams for those who qualify.

Academic CALENDAR 2009-2010

Pathways

Overview

The UPP curriculum is designed to provide all students with instruction in English language, math, and science.  The level of these courses depends on the individual student’s ability and the pathway he is enrolled in.  The pathways are intended to prepare students for university study in engineering, medicine, and business. 

All students take required courses, determined by their pathways, and all students have the opportunity to explore other interests through a selection of course electives.

Medicine Pathway

Students in the Medicine Pathway take biology, chemistry, and math each semester.   All students in this pathway are required to take one semester of Physics for Life Sciences.  Because this course substitutes for one of their electives, students can choose either fall or spring semester to take this course.

Engineering Pathway

Students in the Engineering Pathway, in addition to English courses, are required to take Physics, Chemistry, and Biology each semester.  They are also required to take calculus.  The expectation is that engineering students will attempt SAT Subject Tests in Physics/Math, and Chemistry.

Business Pathway

Students in the Business Pathway take a special integrated science course for business students.  This two-semester course, Business Integrated Science, includes topics in Physics and Chemistry, and it is required of all Business Pathway students.  Students in this pathway are also required to take Business Terminology and Introduction to Business.

Student Responsibilities

Students are responsible for fulfilling all course requirements.  To ensure success, they are expected to do the following:

• Obtain and read assigned textbooks
• Read, understand, and follow the course syllabus
• Attend classes and be on time
• Read assigned materials before class
• Take notes while reading
• Complete all assignments on time
• Participate in classroom discussions
• Notify their teachers if they know they will be absent from classes
• Complete all homework and assignments on time
• Take exams as scheduled unless they have an approved excuse
• Read weekly e-mail announcements and announcements posted on official posting boards
• Attend all meetings organized for students
• Meet with academic advisors at appointed times

Getting Into Alfaisal

Many students attend the UPP to meet the requirements to enroll in Alfaisal University.   It is important for students to know that admission to the UPP does not guarantee admission to Alfaisal University.   Students in the UPP who wish to attend Alfaisal University must successfully complete the program and meet all conditions set by Alfaisal University for admission.  Conditions for Alfaisal admission are announced to students.

Students are advised to contact the Alfaisal University Admissions Office for more information about Alfaisal University admissions or visit the Alfaisal University website at www.alfaisal.edu.

Grades

Grading Policy

Faculty are responsible for the evaluation and grading of student work in order to assign grades at the conclusion of each course.  No one in the administration can change a course grade.

UPP students are assessed on a regular basis; course grades are calculated periodically and reflect a balance between coursework, tests, assignments, laboratory work and independent projects. In keeping with the requirements of the Ministry of Higher Education, all final course grades are a combination of examinations and coursework done during the semester. Official transcripts showing the grades in individual subjects and grade point average are issued at the end of each semester.

The UPP has a 4-point, American style grading system. All grades below 60% are considered failure. Grade point average (GPA) is calculated using the course instructional hours and grade points for individual subjects, and reported to two decimal figures.  Students receive grades in every course.

Transcripts

The transcript reflects a student’s achievements in his course of study.  This document is considered an official record of achievement of the student.

In addition to grades, other marks may appear on the transcript.
P = Pass
I = Incomplete
WO = Withdraw Official
WF = Withdraw Fail

A student or his parent may request copies of his transcript from the Admissions and Records Office. Official copies can be sent to other institutions on behalf of the student, and unofficial copies may be sent to students themselves or their parents.

Maintenance of Records

In the Admissions and Records Office, the Registrar maintains a record of each student’s academic history.  The record includes grades, attendance, and other types of assessment.  If a student’s GPA falls below 2.0 or his records show excessive absences, the student’s parents will be notified.

Standardized Testing

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)

Application to UPP requires a TOEFL score. This exam is an internationally recognized assessment developed by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) to measure the ability of non-native speakers of English to use and understand English as it is spoken, written, and heard in college and university settings. The TOEFL is given several times a month at various locations in Saudi Arabia, where it is an internet-based test (iBT). For more information about the TOEFL and how to register, visit the ETS website at www.ets.org/toefl.

UPP requires students to take the iBT TOEFL at selected points in the program, and in particular, at the end of the academic year. At other key points, UPP administers the Institutional TOEFL, also referred to as the ITP. The ITP provides an indication of student progress, although its scores are not considered official for university admission purposes.  The scores are used by the UPP for diagnostic purposes. The UPP accepts both the ITP, administered by the UPP, and the iBT for admission purposes.

Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT)

The SAT is a standardized test administered by the College Board in the United States. Most U.S. universities require the SAT of their native-English-speaking applicants. There are two different types of SAT exams. The SAT Reasoning Test (SAT I) assesses critical thinking skills students need for academic success in college. It consists of critical reading, math, and writing sections.

The SAT Subject Tests are designed to measure student knowledge and skills in particular subject areas as well as the ability to apply that knowledge. Engineering pathway students are required to attempt SAT Subject tests in Math, Biology and Chemistry for admission to Alfaisal University. Medicine and Business students are encouraged to take these standardized tests to demonstrate their achievement in the UPP, and to assist when applying for scholarships at Alfaisal University.

Advanced Placement (AP)

The Advanced Placement program is a standardized curriculum with course guidelines developed and published by the College Board. The AP allows students to gain college-level content and skills, as well as earn credit for program equivalent first-year college courses. The UPP is committed to providing motivated students with the challenge and rigor to succeed in AP courses. Curricula for these courses may be consulted at http://apcentral.collegeboard.com/apc/.

For more information on the AP and SAT, visit the College Board’s website at www.collegeboard.org.

Information Technology

Information technology (IT) supports all UPP courses. All program computers are networked and linked to the Internet. Faculty, staff, and students have email accounts through which announcements are shared and feedback solicited. Students are expected to adhere to the IT policy explained later in this handbook.

Tutoring

UPP offers extensive tutoring services, which are coordinated by the Student Services Office.  There are two purposes of tutoring:

1. Assist students who are having difficulty in a class
2. Provide additional challenge for students who are doing very well in a class

UPP’s faculty members serve as tutors.  Tutoring services are incorporated into the daily schedule so that students with an open period always have a place to go for tutoring.  This service is managed by Department Chairs. UPP offers three kinds of tutoring by recommendation of Student Services Head, Academic Adviser, or Faculty member:

• One-on-one scheduled tutoring
• Scheduled group tutoring
• Drop-in tutoring for individuals and groups

Tutoring services are available to all students.  Students are free to drop in to some tutoring sessions, and to sign up for others.  Also, some teachers arrange tutoring sessions for the courses they teach.  Information on the content and scheduling of tutoring sessions can be found in the Student Services Office. 

In certain cases, students will be required to attend tutoring sessions.  Students may be referred for mandatory tutoring in the following ways:

• Students on Academic Probation (with GPAs lower than 2.0) are required to attend special tutoring sessions.
• When a teacher identifies a specific academic need for a student, that teacher may assign tutoring to target that need.

Academic Advising

Purpose and Importance of the Advising System

The objective of the UPP Academic Advising System is to help students make optimal use of the UPP in preparation for their university studies.  The system is devised in a way that supports the overall UPP Mission.  Shared responsibility – advisors and advisees – is very important in this system. 

Responsibilities of the Academic Advisor

• Reinforce the rules, regulations, policies, and procedures of UPP
• Help students identify academic strengths and weaknesses
• Refer students for tutoring
• Review and discuss students’ grades
• Help students clarify and establish educational and career goals
• Help students create plans to meet their educational and career goals
• Work with students to clarify grievance cases
• Serve on the Judicial Committee for each advisee, if the advisee is part of a case that goes to the Judicial Committee
• Keep a log of the scheduled and unscheduled visits with each advisee

Advising Events

Students are required to meet with their advisors at least three times each semester.  It is the responsibility of the student to contact his advisor in advance in order to set a meeting date when a mandatory date has not been set by the UPP.  Following are the mandatory advising times:

• In the first week of each semester
• In the first week of classes after mid-semester exams
• In the week after final exams

In addition to the above proscribed times, students may see their advisors at any time they have a need.  Some students may want extra assistance or advice in making a career plan, identifying their personal and academic strengths and weaknesses, and choosing a university or course of study.  Some advisors may ask some students to meet with them regularly to discuss their academic improvement. 

All faculty members keep office hours in which they are available to see students.  If a student needs to meet with his advisor outside these office hours, he should contact his advisor to make an appointment.

Responsibilities of Advisees (Students)

Academic advising is an integral part of the UPP.  The advising system works only when both faculty members and their advisees meet their responsibilities.  The following are the responsibilities of students:

• Contact your advisor – via office visit, e-mail, or phone – to set up meetings at the proscribed times – three times each semester.
• Come to each advising session with the following:
• paper and pen/pencil
• a list of questions and ideas – classes, grades, study skills, career plans, university plans, ways to improve, and ways to get involved in the UPP
• Be open and honest.  Tell your advisor your thoughts, your feelings, and your current academic progress.
• Contact your advisor when you need help with improving your grades or test scores, making your career plan, or choosing a university.
• Contact your advisor if anything happens that interferes with your academic performance.
• Keep all your appointments, and be on time.

Academic Honors

Honor List

The UPP encourages students to excel in their studies and to take pride in their successes.  Students who achieve a GPA of 3.5 or higher at the end of an academic semester are placed on the Honor Roll. 

Dean's List

Students who achieve a GPA of 3.5 or higher at the end of both academic semesters are placed on the Dean's List. 

Award Ceremony

An award ceremony is hosted by the UPP at the end of each academic year to confer awards and recognize students for their academic and other successes.

 Purpose of Student Services

At UPP, every student with a commitment to learn has the chance to succeed thanks to the personalized support and assistance available. UPP students benefit from personalized attention, assistance, and a broad range of activities that provide added interaction with faculty members, exploration of personal interests, and opportunities to develop leadership skills.  The following are ways that the Office of Student Services helps with the holistic development of the students:

• Academic advising system
• Extracurricular student organizations to give students the opportunity to meet others who share their interests, gain new skills, and develop leadership  (Each club has a faculty representative)
• Seminars and workshops on special topics to enhance students’ intellectual abilities
• Special activities to help meet holistic developmental needs such as physical and social needs:
• sports
• field trips
• contests
• Counseling for students who have personal issues that need resolution in order for them to succeed academically
• Logistical services, including help in making housing arrangements for students joining the UPP from outside Riyadh
• Support for grievances, especially for those students who need special assistance in resolving problems

Student Organizations (Clubs)

Students are encouraged to participate in student organizations in order to broaden and deepen their interests and to develop their leadership skills.  Each organization has at least one faculty sponsor. An Organization Fair will be held at the beginning of the school year so students can learn about and sign up for organizations they are interested in.  If students are interested in forming an organization that is not represented in the Organization Fair, they can try to find a faculty sponsor or ask the Student Services Head to try to find a faculty sponsor.

Following are the guidelines for forming a student organization:

• A minimum of four students is required
• At least one faculty member must agree to serve as a representative of the organization
• A student must maintain a 2.5 grade average to be a member of an organization
• A student may be a member of a maximum of three student organizations
• Students who are on any form of probation may not be a member of a student organization
• Any proposed organization must submit a request to the Student Services Head in order to gain approval before becoming an official UPP student organization.

Student Association

Purpose of the Student Association

The UPP Student Association is sponsored and guided by the Office of Student Services.  Composed of pathway representatives, the objective of the Association is to build a cohesive UPP community, to present students’ concerns to the administration, to serve as a communication bridge between the students and the administration, and to generate productive academic and social activities.

Student Association Constitution

Prepared by the Student Association during the first year of the UPP, the Student Association Constitution provides guidance for how the Student Association operates.  Each year, the students elected into the Student Association may adjust the constitution through a fair and transparent process overseen by the Student Services Head.

The complete, approved Student Association Constitution is maintained in the office of the Student Services Head.

Seminars and Workshops

The Office of Student Services arranges regular evening seminars and workshops hosted on campus. These seminars and workshops address different career paths, open up stimulating academic topics not part of the normal curriculum, and challenge students to think critically about themselves and the world.  Workshops and seminars are open to all UPP students and their families.

Examples of typical seminar or workshop topics include:

• Life skills for developing good study habits and healthy personal habits
• The process of filling out university applications
• Managing time effectively
• Strategies for improving academic performance
• Presentations of the colleges and majors at Alfaisal University
• Cross-cultural communication and adaptation
• Developing business and entrepreneurial skills

Special Activities

The UPP encourages students to become actively involved with the student community to foster a sense of connection that is critical to success.  Activities include seminars, clubs, the Student Association, field trips, sports teams, student functions, and student-generated events.  Students interested in creating a new club for the student body should contact the Office of Student Services. 

Sports

The UPP encourages students to participate in the numerous sports activities available to them.  These include football, basketball, volleyball swimming and the gymnasium.  If a student wishes to start a new sports activity, the Office of Student Services can help to make arrangements for the necessary equipment and space.

Contests

Several contests will be held throughout the year.  Contests encourage students to develop their talents and abilities, express themselves, and develop self-confidence.  Possible contests include:  English Speech Contest, English Writing Contest, Talent Contest, Science Project Contest.

Social Activities

Social activities are arranged to allow students and faculty members to get to know each other in informal settings.  Through social activities, students will learn and practice cross-cultural communication skills, develop closer interpersonal relationships with peers and faculty members, and simply enjoy after-class time.

Field Trips

Field trips are arranged for specific classes, some student organizations, and the student body as a whole.  At least one faculty member accompanies each off-campus trip.  Transportation for official school trips will be provided by the UPP.  Transportation will not be provided for unofficial excursions or outings organized by students, faculty, or staff.

All UPP Standards of Behavior and Attire apply when on a field trip.  To participate in field trips, students must have their parents’ or guardians’ signatures on file with the Office of Student Services and must not be on any form of probation.

Counseling

Head of Student Services is available to talk with students about personal concerns.  Some of the issues that students can see the Student Services Head about are:

• Sadness / depression
• Loneliness
• Grief over a loss
• Sudden unexplained change in personal habits:
• sleeping
• eating
• studying
• Cultural adaptation difficulties

Students can see the Student Services Head for any personal concern not in the above list, of course.

The UPP Director has the authority to enact rules and adopt procedures that may be necessary for the safe and efficient operation of the program.  The UPP establishes and enforces only those rules and regulations for conduct that are needed to maintain the well being of the individual student and the academic community.  Any rules that are additions to, or revisions of, those rules contained in this Handbook or other UPP publications will be posted on official bulletin boards, distributed during class, or included on the UPP web site. 

Responsibilities AND Rights of Students

Responsibilities

The student, by registering at the UPP, agrees to conform to its regulations.  Publications provided by the UPP, such as the Student Handbook, establish contractual obligations between the UPP and the students.  Each student is expected to familiarize himself, and comply, with all published rules and regulations.    

The student is subject to disciplinary action for violating any UPP rules and may be placed on Behavioral Probation for rule violations.  If a student on Behavioral Probation continues to disregard the rules of student conduct, his enrollment in the UPP may be terminated.

Rights

Students have the right of access to academic records, including advising files.  If a student requests access to information in an advisor’s file, he should notify the Assistant Director in writing.  The Assistant Director will make arrangements for access to the specified file, including the time and place.

All students have the right to request information on how their grades were calculated and investigation of cases in which they sense some form of unfair treatment has taken place.   An explanation of how students can follow up on grievance cases is included in this handbook.

Rights of Parents AND Legal Guardians

Parents and legal guardians have the right of access to academic records, including advising files.  The UPP reserves the right to allow the parents and legal guardians of UPP students to review and/or receive copies of their sons’ academic records, upon appropriate requests being made to the Registrar.  If a parent requests access to information in an advisor’s file, the Assistant Director should be notified in writing.  The Assistant Director will make arrangements for access to the specified file, including the time and place.

Parents and legal guardians have a right to be informed of their son’s progress in the academic program.  Parents may be allowed access to their son’s academic record, such as course grades.  Also, parents and legal guardians may be contacted if their son is excessively absent.

ACADEMIC RECORD RELEASE

Access to academic records is afforded to students, parents, and legal guardians.  If anyone other than the abovementioned – hereby referred to as a third party – wishes to have access to a student’s academic record, the student must present to the Registrar written authorization stating precisely what portions of the record may be made available and to whom.  Faculty members will not release academic information to a third party.   With written authorization, the Registrar may release directly to a third party attendance data and academic data from midterm and final grade reports.

If the third party requests, and has signed permission to obtain, academic-related information that is not contained in the attendance data or grade reports, the Registrar will refer the third party to the Assistant Director.  The Assistant Director will relay to the third party any additional academic information from faculty members and the academic advisor.

tuition and fees

Tuition and Fees Information:

1. Within four weeks of receiving their letter of acceptance, students must pay the first semester tuition fees to ensure admission.
2. Students must complete registration and payment of tuition and other fees prior to each semester.
3. Due dates are not extended nor are late payment fees waived for any reason.
4. Monthly installment plans are available under special circumstances.  Requests have to be made through the Registrar’s Office and approved by the Administrative Dean.
5. Students under scholarship must submit to the UPP Registrar’s Office a Scholarship Letter of Commitment provided by the Sponsor prior to enrollment.
6. Students whose accounts are not fully paid by the tuition due date are not allowed to register for any new term and will not receive transcripts any remaining balance is paid in full.
7. It is the student’s responsibility to be aware of all registration and fee payment dates and deadlines.
8. Method of Payment:
• Checks are paid to the order of “King Faisal Foundation’s University Preparatory Program”.
• Cash is accepted at the UPP Finance Office.
• Settlement should be made in Saudi Riyals.
• Direct deposit payment can be made to the following bank account. Please state student’s full name:

Account name:	King Faisal Foundation’s University Preparatory Program
Bank:	Saudi British Bank (SABB)
Bank address:	Al Faisaliah Tower
Account number:	154-000111-004

Tuition:

Fees:

Note:  Fees are subject to change.

Class Attendance

Attendance Taking

Faculty members maintain up-to-date attendance records for their classes on the Student Information System.  Faculty members report only whether students are ‘present’, ‘absent’, or ‘tardy’ (late).   It is important for students to explain to their teachers why they were late or absent from class, in order to maintain a relationship of respect and trust and to learn what they missed in class while they were absent.

Absences

Absences are handled by course instructors according to the absence policy published in the syllabus of each course.  If a student knows that he will be absent on a particular future date, he should notify his teachers in advance so that arrangements can be made for making up missed work in advance, per decision of the instructor.

Exam Barring

If a student reaches an absence rate of 25% in a course, the instructor of that course may deny that student permission to take the final exam.  The instructor will notify the Registrar’s Office of his intent to bar a student from a final exam.  The Registrar’s Office will confirm the official absence record and notify the student in writing that he is barred from taking the final exam.  If the student believes he has a legitimate reason for missing some or all of his classes, he may file an appeal with the Registrar’s Office.  The appeal with all documentation must be filed at least two working days before the final exam.  The Registrar’s Office will require written documentation to verify the reason for the excessive absences.

If a student reaches an absence rate of 50% in a course, the administration will deny that student permission to take the final exam.  The Registrar’s Office will contact the instructor who has a student with a 50% absence rate in order to verify the official absence record, and then notify the student in writing that he is barred from taking the final exam.  There is no appeal for an absence rate of 50%, regardless of the reasons for the absences.

The Registrar’s decision is final in both verifying a student’s official attendance record and accepting or rejecting an appeal of a student’s attendance record.

Academic Integrity

Definition

All members of the UPP academic community are expected to maintain complete honesty and trust in their academic experiences, both in and out of the classroom.  It is the responsibility of the student to maintain academic integrity at all times and to seek assistance from his teacher or advisor when uncertain. Students who participate in activities which misrepresent their academic work by engaging in any acts as outlined below will be subject to penalties that are assessed by classroom teachers or other designated officials.  Penalties may include removal from the UPP.

Activities of misrepresentation include the following (NACADA, 2007):

Plagiarism:  taking someone else’s intellectual work and presenting it as one’s own (both published and unpublished sources).

• Failing to properly acknowledge a statement or idea made by another individual
• Using another person’s paper as one’s own
• Handing in a paper purchased from an individual or agency

Standards of attribution and acknowledgment (references, citations) are set by each discipline, e.g. APA, MLA.  Students should consult with their teacher and recognized handbooks.

Cheating: 

• Consulting any materials during a test without the instructor’s permission
• Use of hidden notes or ‘crib sheets’
• Intentional observation of another student’s test
• Receipt of a copy of an exam or questions or answers from an exam to be given or in progress
• Substitution of another person for the student on an exam or other graded activity
• Deliberate falsification of lab results
• Submission of falsified data
• Alteration of exams
• Collaboration on activities or projects when collaboration is forbidden by the instructor
• Changing an answer on a test that has already been graded, and requesting a correction from the teacher
• Assisting another student to cheat

Falsification, forgery, or alteration of any academic records of assignments or exams.

Penalties

Following are disciplinary actions that may be taken toward students who violate academic integrity, depending on the severity of the case:

• Warning – verbally or in writing
• ‘F’ grade for an assignment
• ‘F’ grade for a class
• Academic probation
• Dismissal

If a teacher is made aware of misrepresentation of academic work related to his class, the following steps will be taken:

1. The teacher will talk to the student to see if he understands ‘academic integrity’ and to make him aware of the seriousness of the situation.  A warning may be given, or a grade of ‘F’ may be given for the assignment or exam.  Additional penalties may be assigned by the teacher, and the teacher may refer the matter to the administration.

2. If the student breaches academic honesty a second time, the teacher will give a grade of ‘F’ for the assignment or exam, inform the student’s academic advisor to meet with the student, and inform the department chairman.

3. If the student breaches academic honesty a third time, the teacher will refer the student to the Department Chair, who will meet with the student and then take the case to the Assistant Director.  The Assistant Director will deal with each student on a case by case basis and may place the student on Academic Probation.

4. If the student breaches academic honesty a fourth time, the teacher will notify the Department Chair, who will notify the Assistant Director.  The Assistant Director will call a meeting of the Judicial Committee to hear the student’s case (see section on Academic Probation) and decide if the student will be allowed to remain in the UPP.

PROBATION

When a student has difficulty with one or more courses, or when he is unable to follow the rules and regulations of the UPP, he is put on probation so that the Program can provide increased assistance to him.    The status of probation is seen by the UPP as an opportunity to provide additional academic and disciplinary support. The student is expected to respond positively to the additional support, either from tutors, from his advisor, or from the UPP administration.   There are two kinds of probation:  Academic (when achievement in courses falls below expectations) and Behavioral (when codes of behavior are not being met and the behavior may have a negative impact on the performance of the student or others in the program).

Academic Probation

A student will be placed on Academic Probation by the Assistant Director for any of the following:

• Having a program grade average below 2.0 after the first semester (Having a program grade average below 2.0 after mid-term exam will result in a written warning.)
• Breaching academic honesty, as determined by the Assistant Director (see section on Academic Integrity)

Being placed on Academic Probation means the following, as applicable according to the reason for the probation:

• Parents or legal guardians will be notified of the student’s status by the Admissions Office.
• The student must meet with his advisor to make a concrete plan to improve his attendance and/or academic standing.
• The student must attend tutoring sessions as decided by his advisor and the Department Chairmen.
• The student must meet regularly with the Student Services Head.
• The student may not participate in any student organization.

A student will be released from Academic Probation at the end of the school year if his final program grade average is 2.0 or higher.

A student on Academic Probation must meet with the Judicial Committee, under the following circumstances, to explain his case:

• Being involved in any disciplinary action.
• Having a total of 25% unexcused absences across all classes.
• Having excessive ‘tardies’ after being placed on probation.
• Having a program grade average below 2.0 (if the reason for probation is a violation of academic integrity).

The Judicial Committee will recommend whether or not to dismiss the student from the UPP.  The Judicial Committee is comprised of two faculty members who are not teachers of the student on probation, two Academic Council members, and one student.  Committee members are appointed by the Assistant Director in consultation with the Director at the beginning of each academic year.

Behavioral Probation

If a student is found to be in violation of the Student Conduct Code (explained below) but has not committed an infraction that merits his dismissal from the UPP, he may be placed on Behavioral Probation by the Assistant Director.

Being placed on Behavioral Probation means the following:

• Parents or legal guardians will be notified by the Admissions Office of the student’s status.
• The student must meet regularly with the Student Services Head.
• The student may not be a member of any student organization.
• The student must maintain an overall GPA of 2.0.
• The student must not commit any further violations of the Student Conduct Code.
• The student must not commit any violation of academic integrity.
• The student must not be placed on Academic or Attendance Probation.

A student is released from Behavioral Probation at the end of the semester.  The Head of Student Services may recommend release of a student from Behavioral Probation early if the student has shown a positive attitude and has taken action to not only correct his violation of the Student Conduct Code but to make himself a model of proper behavior in the student body.  The recommendation must be endorsed by the Assistant Director and approved by the Director.

If the student violates the terms of his probation as described above, he must meet with the Judicial Committee.  The Judicial Committee will decide whether to dismiss the student from the UPP, or whether to initiate further disciplinary actions.  The Judicial Committee is comprised of two faculty members who are not teachers of the student on probation, two Academic Council members, and one student.  Committee members are appointed by the Assistant Director in consultation with the Director at the beginning of each academic year.

student conduct code

This code explains what behaviors are expected of UPP students in and out of the classroom. 

Student Misconduct

Students in the University Preparatory Program are expected to maintain proper behavior at all times – respect the law, observe UPP policies and regulations, and treat everyone in the UPP community with respect.  Student misconduct may result in severe penalties including removal from the Program.

Forms of student misconduct include, but are not limited to:

• Disrespectful behavior toward others
• Disruptive behavior
• Misuse of resources
• Theft, damage, defacement, or unauthorized use of UPP property
• Failure to comply with requests from UPP faculty, staff or administration
• Violation of UPP published policies and regulations

Clothing

While on the UPP campus, students should dress appropriately and respect the cultural and religious foundations of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Classes with labs will have individual clothing requirements in order to preserve student safety.  Failure to follow safety rules and procedures will result in removal from the laboratory and a ‘zero’ grade for the activity.

Student ID

Each student is issued a personal student UPP identification card with a unique UPP student number at the beginning of each academic year.  This ID card is to be used for the entire academic year and is to be carried at all times while students are on campus.  Student ID cards are required to access parking allotted to the UPP.  The ID cards will be replaced, upon payment of fee by the student, if lost, stolen, or discarded.  A lost ID card must be immediately reported to the Registrar.

Mobile Phones

Mobile phones must be turned off and put away when entering a classroom.  Mobile phones may not be used (or seen) in any form during classes or meetings with UPP faculty or administrators.  Failure to abide by this rule will result in the confiscation of phones, and, for repeat offenders, possible disciplinary action.

Food and Drink

Food and drink (except for water) are not allowed in any academic area. Meals and snacks may be eaten only in the assigned areas and only during breaks.

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted in any building managed by Alfaisal University. At this time this includes the College of Science and General Studies building, Palace, Utility Building, and underground parking lot (including vehicles inside the parking lot).

If a person wishes to smoke, there are designated outside smoking locations on the campus interior side of the College of Science building.

This no-smoking policy will be strictly enforced by all security guards in the best interests of all. The security guards’ directions must be followed. Consequences for offenders of this policy are:

• First violation: Provided a verbal warning along with a written warning to be included in student file.
• Second and further violations: Fine of SR 300 for each and every violation of this no-smoking policy. Students will have to pay the fine or have a hold placed on their academic records. The violation notification documents will be placed in student files and will be considered in evaluating adherence to UPP policies.

Littering

Students are expected to contribute to maintaining a clean environment at the UPP, both inside and outside the building, and in the parking lot.  This means trash of any sort (papers, plastic cups, soft drink cans, candy wrappers, cigarette butts, etc.) must be deposited in the waste receptacles provided.   Hallways, bathrooms, and all academic areas must be kept free from litter. 

Disciplinary Actions

Following are disciplinary actions that may be taken – individually or in combination – toward students for violation of the Student Conduct Code:

• Verbal warning
• Written warning
• Restrictions on participation in certain activities
• Restitution for damages
• Behavioral Probation
• Dismissal
• Referral to appropriate legal authorities

Academic grievances

Course Grade Error

A student has the right to request a grade review if he believes a mistake has been made in assigning a grade.  A student who believes a course grade is incorrect should contact his course instructor. 

Academic Record Error

A student has the right to request amendment of his academic record – grade report or transcript – if the student believes the record does not portray the grade an instructor has issued.  A student who believes his record is incorrect should notify, in writing, the Registrar.  The written request should specify the part of the record the student thinks should be changed, and should explain the reason for the requested change.  

If the Registrar determines that an error has occurred in the computation or printing of the academic record, he will submit a correction request in writing to the Assistant Director for approval.  If the Assistant Director approves the change, the Registrar will modify the official record and notify the student.

Appeal of Academic Decision

If a student receives a denial for his request to change a course grade or his academic record, the student may appeal the decision.  The appeal chain for change of a course grade is:  Department Chair, Assistant Director, Director.  The appeal chain for change of the academic record denied by the Registrar is:  Assistant Director, Director.  The appeal chain for change of the academic record denied by the Assistant Directoris:  Director.     

general grievances

Students have the right to petition for redress of grievances.  A student with a non-academic grievance should notify the Head of Student Services.  The student who has a grievance is called the “grievant”.  An individual who is named as causing the grievance is called a “respondent”. 

Informal Grievance

The Student Services Head will ensure that the grievant has discussed the grievance with the respondent, if possible and reasonable, in order to resolve it through informal discussion.  If the grievance cannot be resolved through informal discussion, the Student Services Head will get the grievant in contact with the supervisor of the respondent.  The supervisor will be requested to mediate a discussion between the grievant and the respondent within five working days of being notified by the Student Services Head.  All program officials involved are to maintain confidentiality throughout the entire process.

Formal Grievance

If a student has attempted the informal grievance process and is not satisfied with the result, he may file a formal written grievance with the Student Services Head.  The written grievance must contain 1) a designation of the individuals involved, 2) an explanation that contains dates, time, and locations, 3) a statement of the remedy requested.  Upon receipt of the written grievance, a hearing and decision-making process will be followed.  The Student Services Head will provide the grievant with a written copy of the process.  All program officials involved are to maintain confidentiality throughout the entire process.

ACADEMIC DEADLINES

Final Exams

Students are not permitted to take midterm or final exams early. 

If a student is unable to attend a scheduled examination the following procedures should be followed: 

• The student should notify the Admissions Office before the beginning of the exam. The Admissions Office will log the absence and notify the Assistant Director, Department Chair, and Instructor.   

If a reason for the absence is presented within two days of the written exam (before the grade submission deadline), and if the excuse is acceptable to the instructor and Department Chair, the instructor and Department Chair may make arrangements for a retake of the examination by the student.

• On his return to the UPP, the student must present to the Registrar an official written document explaining the reason for his absence from the exam.
• The Admissions Office in consultation with the Assistant Director’s Office and Department Chair will determine if the absence may be considered as excused.  
• The Admissions Office will notify the student and instructor of this decision within 24 hours of submission of an exam retake request.
• The instructor and Department Chair will arrange for a retake examination.
• The instructor has the discretion to determine the content of the examination paper; the duration of the examination will be the same as the original schedule.
• The instructor will submit the grade with the Department Chair’s signature to the Assistant Director’s Office for ratification and entry into Blackbaud.

Completion of Coursework

In any semester, all work for a course must be submitted before the final exam date for that course.  Individual faculty members may establish their own specific deadlines that stipulate a time between the last week of class and the final exam.

If a student believes he has a valid excuse for not completing course work before the final exam date for a specific course, he may appeal directly to the course instructor for permission to submit his work late.  If permission is given to submit course work by a date that falls after official transcripts will be produced, the transcript will show for that course ‘I’ for ‘Incomplete’.  The instructor will submit a course grade by the deadline on the academic calendar.  If the student has not submitted his coursework by the deadline, the ‘I’ will automatically be changed to ‘F’.

Withdrawal Policy

Course Withdrawal

A student must be enrolled in every required course according to the UPP curriculum framework approved by the Director. 

Program Withdrawal

If a legitimate reason exists, a student may be allowed to withdraw from the UPP completely.  The student is responsible for submitting notification of his intent to the Registrar.  All such requests will be in consultation with the student’s faculty advisor, with the knowledge of the Assistant Director, and with the approval of the UPP Director.  The student will also meet with the Registrar to complete an exit interview prior to leaving the UPP.

A student who is unable to continue in the program due to illness or an accident should immediately notify the UPP Director or the Assistant Director. A withdrawal from current courses will be completed upon verification of the illness or accident.

A withdrawal deadline appears on the academic calendar.  If a student withdraws before the deadline, his transcript will show “WO” for each course.  “WO” means “Withdrawal Official”.  If a student withdraws after the deadline, his transcript will show “WF” for each course.  “WF” means “Withdraw Fail”.

Fee Payment

For a student who withdraws from the UPP, tuition will be refunded per the following guidelines.  Fees are not refundable.

• Withdrawal prior to the first day of a semester:  100% refund.
• Withdrawal during the first two weeks of a semester:  100% refund.
• Withdrawal after the first two weeks but before the midterm exam week of a semester:  50% refund.
• Withdrawal after the midterm exam week of a semester:  0% refund.

Facilities Use

Students who wish to use any UPP facilities for special activities or events should contact the Student Services Head.  If a student organization wishes to use any UPP facilities for an organizational activity or event, the faculty advisor will contact the Student Services Head.

information technology (it) policy

All IT resources provided on any premises maintained by the UPP for the educational benefit of students enrolled at the UPP are subject to the terms and conditions of use stated below.  Any infringement of these terms and conditions will result in disciplinary action. Students are requested to seek guidance on any aspect of this policy that is unclear.

General Guidelines

• UPP computing resources, including all network infrastructures, are provided for academic purposes.
• The use of any UPP equipment for the playing of games, or any software which may be deemed a game other than those with direct educational benefit, is prohibited.
• It is not permitted to install or run any software, except that provided by UPP, on any UPP computer, with the exception of that which is written as part of an academic course. Such software development must be part of an academic activity and must not contravene any part of the UPP’s IT policy.

Internet Resources

• UPP Internet resources shall not be used to deliberately perform acts that waste computer resources or unfairly monopolize resources (e.g., sending mass mailings or chain letters, engaging in chat groups, playing games, and downloading very large files).

Downloaded Material

• Users shall comply with applicable copyright law and license agreements for material downloaded (e.g., software, files, documents, messages, graphics, music, or video) using UPP Internet resources.
• Users shall not upload, download, send, receive, store, or print the following material without authorization by the Head of Instructional Technology:  missing
• Users shall follow UPP-approved processes to scan downloaded Internet material and content for viruses and other malicious code.

Electronic Mail Acceptable Use Standard

• Users shall be accountable for email activity associated with their accounts.
• UPP email resources shall be used for academic purposes.

Improper Use (includes but is not limited to the following):

• UPP email resources shall not be used for the following:
• Activity that is illegal or improper
• Activity that interferes with normal academic operations
• Activity that violates UPP policies
• Activity that interferes with individual or other work performance
• UPP email resources shall not be used for accessing, transmitting, receiving, printing, or storing the following types of material:
• Harassing, derogatory, discriminatory, or offensive messages; obscene, sexually explicit, or sexually oriented messages or images
• Mailings for personal, political, or other non-academic purposes
• Chain letters, "Joke a day" type messages, sports pool and gambling activity, or false virus warnings and other hoaxes
• Humor, comments, or images containing ethnic slurs, racial epithets, or any other communication that could offend, disparage, or embarrass others based on their race, national origin, color, gender, age, disability, religious or political beliefs, or other reasons that may be sensitive to the recipient

Academic Resource Center (ARC) and Computer Labs

• The Academic Resource Center and the computer labs are academic workplaces. Users are expected to work quietly and respect the need for others to be able to concentrate.  The following rules apply.
• The use of anything likely to disturb others is prohibited.
• Phones must be switched to "silent" and may be not be used while in the room.
• Earphones must be used for audio, but must not disturb users nearby.
• No food, drinks, or snacks of any kind may be brought into, or consumed in, computer labs or the ARC.
• Users must not remove any UPP or Alfaisal materials from the ARC without processing them with the ARC staff.
• Users must not tamper in any way with any IT equipment in the ARC or elsewhere.
• Users must not attempt to rectify faults in equipment.
• Both the labs and the ARC are open during normal office working hours. 

Confidentiality of Information

• Users must treat as confidential, and as private property, all information and software which may accidentally become available to them. Users agree not to copy, retain, modify or disseminate any part of such material.
• Evasion or attempted evasion of security mechanisms, and deliberate eavesdropping, are forbidden.
• The UPP may at any time monitor any use of the resources either for reasons of system maintenance or to ensure that UPP Regulations and the law of the land are not being violated.
• Users must not use the resources in such a way that the work of other users, the integrity of the computing equipment, or any stored programs or data may be jeopardized.
• If a student’s use of IT resources violates any IT policy, the UPP may summarily withdraw access to any or all IT resources.

Network Limitations - Prohibited Programs

• Due to network limitations the following programs have been blocked.  Any attempt to access these sites using third party proxy servers is strictly prphibited.
  • SKYPE,  Paltalk , lowratevoip, or any other live chatting service
  • All sites displaying video
• It is unacceptable to willfully use any PC or laptop belonging to the UPP to:            
• Display derogatory, discriminatory, offensive images, obscene, sexually explicit, or sexually oriented images.
• Send any virus
• Engage in any form of hacking
• Send any emails to multiple addresses without consent of the receiving parties, commonly referred to as SPAM
• Connect to any wireless network without full authorization of the network provider

DisTRIBUTION AND Posting of Information

A copy of any material to be distributed or posted must first be given to the Office of Student Services for approval at least two days prior to the activity or event.  All materials must be in English.  The time, place, and manner of distribution or posting must also be approved prior to dissemination.  Obscene, libelous, misleading, misrepresenting, and culturally insensitive material may not be distributed or posted.

Distribution of announcements may only occur in public areas at reasonable times.  The ARC, classrooms, and other areas in which the educational or instructional activity is conducted are not considered public areas. 

The UPP provides bulletin boards for posting of announcements and publicizing official messages and announcements by students, faculty members, staff members, and registered organizations.  Announcements can be placed on bulletin boards only if stamped by the Office of Student Services.  The UPP reserves the right to remove any non-current material or any materials posted contrary to the above-stated policy.

Emergency Procedures

In case of a fire or other general emergency, all persons should respond immediately to instructions and move to a safe location.  Classes will not resume until so directed by the UPP Director.

Fire extinguishers and warning alarms are located throughout the facilities and are to be activated only in case of an emergency.  Any person found to deliberately set off an alarm without cause, or to in any way impede the safe access to and use of emergency equipment, will be subject to severe disciplinary action. 

Accidents, Illness, and Medical Emergencies

If a student becomes ill or is injured while on campus, the following procedures should be followed.  The procedures apply to both in-class and out-of-class situations.

• If the student is well enough to safely get around on his own, he can go directly to the campus clinic.
• If the student is very unwell, such as feeling weak, he should immediately ask someone to call for the Head of Student Services.  The Student Services Head will assist the student to the clinic or call a medical staff member to come to assist the student.
• If the situation is judged to be an emergency and the student is unable to move or be moved, a faculty or staff member will call the clinic to send someone to assist.

A student will be required to leave campus – for home or a hospital/clinic – if he has any of the following symptoms:

• Fever
• Body aches
• Vomiting

If a student’s family has an emergency that requires contacting the student while he is at the UPP, a family member should call the UPP’s main phone number and ask that the student be contacted.

Lost AND Found

Location

Students who find lost items should take them to the Office of Student Services.  Students who have lost an item should contact the Office of Student Services to see if the item has been found and turned in to the office.  The Office of Student Services will hold all lost-and-found items until the beginning of the next school year.

Items found by Alfaisal personnel are given to the security guards and kept at the guard desk in the center of the first floor. 

Lost Locker Keys

If a UPP student loses his locker key, he must inform Student Services and pay a fee of SR 20 for a replacement.  A staff member will open his locker one time so the student can retrieve all his books. Until he receives his replacement key – which could be several days – the student will not have access to his locker.

Visitors

UPP visitors must be checked through security and display a visitor’s badge when in the building.  Students may not bring guests without prior permission from UPP faculty or administration.

When you have a question or need assistance, refer to this table: