Ball State University is committed to maintaining a healthy and safe learning environment that supports and protects students in their quest for educational and personal achievement. In addition to complying with federal safety requirements and as part of supporting a safe campus, the University requires all applicants who have been convicted of a felony or has a pending felony charge to disclose this information. It is not uncommon for colleges and universities to require such disclosure and Ball State University has done so since 2001.
An applicant who has been convicted of a felony or has a pending felony charge is required to provide a letter of explanation and official court documentation to the nature of the crime. It is important for the University to know any conditions of probation or parole and any restrictions or obligations placed on the applicant before making an admissions decision. Applicants will not be denied admission based solely on their disclosure of conviction.
The purpose of the Exceptional Admissions Committee (Committee) shall be to review all pertinent information on applicants with felony convictions or pending felony charges. The Committee shall make a recommendation to the appropriate admissions office on the suitability of an applicant’s enrollment and any conditions that might apply to that enrollment decision.
The Committee will also review existing University policies and procedures regarding such admissions decisions and make recommendations for changes as deemed necessary, communicating any such recommendations through appropriate channels.
Policy adopted in 2001
Reviewed in 2007, 2011, 2012, 2016
Note: Students already admitted to the University who are convicted or charged with a felony are required to notify the Office of Student Conduct of that status. See Requirement to Disclose Felony Conviction after Admission.