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Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies Participation Agreement

This Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies (SPCS) Participation Agreement (“SPCS Agreement” or “this Agreement”) applies to students who are participating in the Stanford Summer Humanities Institute (SHI) or Stanford University Mathematics Camp (SUMaC) residentially on Stanford’s campus.

The SPCS Agreement contains important information about the obligations and responsibilities you assume when you are accepted to a Program. For your enrollment to be complete, you and your parent or legal guardian must sign the Enrollment Agreement, indicating that you have read and understand this Agreement and agree to abide by all its terms and conditions.

If accepted to a Program, I agree to all of the following terms and conditions. I further understand that my participation in the Program is contingent upon acceptance of these terms. I understand that if my circumstances change and I am no longer able or willing to meet the obligations and responsibilities described in this Agreement, I must notify SPCS immediately and as a result, I may be required to withdraw from the program and to pay financial penalties.

 

Terms of Agreement

1. Eligibility

I understand that I am not eligible to participate in any program, school obligation, sport, or other activity that conflicts with the published dates of this Program. Further, I understand that I am not eligible to participate in or continue participating in any Program if I have previously been dismissed or am in the process of being dismissed from a SPCS program for academic or behavioral reasons.

SPCS reserves the right to revoke admission or participation at any point prior to or during the Program should there be any changes to a Participant's qualifications or readiness to participate in the program. SPCS will notify the Participant and Parent or Legal Guardian should there be any concerns regarding eligibility, or if the Participant is no longer eligible to participate in the Program.

NOTE: SPCS will share confidential health information internally to necessary seasonal residential staff for purposes of care planning and support during the Program. Any information you disclose to SPCS will be shared with University staff and faculty only when necessary to facilitate your participation in SPCS programs. The information you provide could facilitate assistance during an emergency and/or aid you in planning for a successful and safe experience on campus.

2. Standards

I will uphold and abide by all Stanford policies, rules, and regulations, including but not limited to Stanford's Honor Code, Stanford Protection of Minors Policy, SPCS Code of Conduct (Section 3), as well as any SPCS-specific policies and procedures while participating in a Program. I also understand and agree to act responsibly, familiarize myself with, and abide by the policies and SPCS Community Expectations.

I understand and agree that any violations of this Agreement, in SPCS’s sole judgment, may result in follow-up actions, including but not limited to: a behavior agreement, program probation or dismissal, and ineligibility for future SPCS programming. I further agree, if dismissed from the program, to be responsible for all costs incurred in returning home from Stanford University.

3. Participant Expectations

In addition to compliance with all Stanford policies, rules, and regulations, I understand and agree that I am subject to the following SPCS Code of Conduct. As a SPCS program participant, I understand:

  • Participants are expected to adhere to the highest standards of good citizenship, honesty, and integrity in their academic work and in their personal conduct. This includes demonstrating good citizenship during personal and classroom interactions, and we encourage participants to take meaningful action if they witness violations of this standard, including reporting violations to Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies personnel.
  • Participants are expected to show courtesy and respect for their fellow participants, for Stanford University personnel, and for Stanford University visitors.
  • Participants are expected to use language in a manner that is appropriate for a healthy learning environment. Obscene, derogatory, and abusive language is prohibited.
  • Participants are expected to dress appropriately for an academic learning environment and in a manner that reflects positively on themselves, Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies Summer Programs, and Stanford University.
  • Consistent with its obligations under the law, in the administration of the University’s programs and activities, Stanford prohibits unlawful discrimination on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, marital status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law; Stanford also prohibits unlawful harassment including sexual harassment and sexual violence. Race, color, or national origin includes shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics.
  • Participants are expected to show respect for and take reasonable care of Stanford University property including course materials, online instances of software owned by Stanford, and any other distributed program materials. This includes not sharing Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies course or student life materials with people outside of the SPCS community and not sharing SPCS materials with people outside SPCS, directly or online. Seek advice from your instructor or a staff member if you have questions.
  • Participants shall not use, possess, or distribute alcohol, tobacco, vape pens/e-cigarettes, or drugs (with the exception of prescription and over-the-counter medications approved for use by the participant’s parent/legal guardian) in connection with the program. This includes time prior to and during a scheduled program event, or during independent work time. Participation in an incident involving alcohol, tobacco, vape pens/e-cigarettes, or drugs is cause for immediate dismissal, even if the participant did not consume or intend to consume these substances.
  • Participants are expected to be well behaved and follow the instructions of the program staff, instructional staff, and other Stanford University personnel. Unruly behavior, including causing disruptions at events, will not be tolerated.
  • Participants shall not commit acts of violence on persons or property, nor shall they threaten to commit any act of violence.
  • Any behavior that could expose others to a high likelihood of injury or endangerment is prohibited. This includes bullying and misuse of SPCS learning management system tools in a manner that challenges another student's safety. 
  • Participants shall not engage in any form of harassment, bullying, or hazing. Harassment consists of conduct of any type (including but not limited to physical, written, verbal, graphic, electronic, or social media) which has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s academic or work performance, or which creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive living, learning or working environment.
  • Interactions between minor participants and participants who are eighteen years of age are strictly limited to the live course and completion of coursework. Interactions of any kind on social media between minors and 18+ participants are prohibited.
  • Participants shall not engage in any form of sexual misconduct. Sexual misconduct includes, but is not limited to, sexual harassment, sexual assault, or any conduct with sexual overtones which has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s academic or work performance or which creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive learning or working environment.
  • Participants shall uphold high standards of academic integrity through honesty, trust, fairness, and responsibility. Participants are expected to demonstrate a spirit of cooperation and exploration within the academic guidelines provided by their instructors and to meet the intellectual challenges of the program through honest effort and hard work.
  • Participants shall abide by all federal, state, and local laws, as well as Stanford University rules and regulations.

I understand that failure to comply with the Code of Conduct may result in removal from the program, probation, or other disciplinary action, even for first time-violations. In all cases, program staff will contact my parents/legal guardians to inform them of my behavior and ensure a proper plan is in place for moving forward. I understand that violations of the law may be reported to the Stanford Department of Public Safety in accordance with the Clery Act.

Disciplinary Procedures:
By participating in a Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies program, the participant and the participant’s parent(s)/legal guardian(s) agree to support any necessary inquiry of a violation of the Community Expectations for Participants or the Code of Conduct. Consequences for violating the Community Expectations for Participants or the Code of Conduct may include, but are not limited to, disciplinary actions such as requiring participants to write letters of apology or essays reflecting on the consequences of behavior; reflection meetings, possibly with parents/legal guardians present; probation; and/or immediate dismissal from the program. In all cases, program staff will contact parents/legal guardians to inform them of the participant's behavior and ensure a proper plan is in place for moving forward. Violations of the law may be reported to the Stanford Department of Public Safety in accordance with the Clery Act.

Probation Process:
A Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies participant who repeatedly or seriously violates the Community Expectations for Participants or the Code of Conduct—but not enough to warrant immediate dismissal—will be placed on probation for a specified amount of time during the program. Any decision to place a participant on probation requires the approval of Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies Professional Staff or their designee. Once a participant has been placed on probation, any further violation subjects the participant to immediate dismissal. Additional consequences may be assigned to the participant if deemed necessary. Once the decision to place a participant on probationary status has been made, both the participant and parent(s)/legal guardian(s) will be notified and will receive a disciplinary letter from the Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies Professional Staff.

Dismissal and Release Process:
I understand and agree that my acceptance into the Program may be withdrawn or I may be dismissed from the Program for reasons including, but not limited to, if 1) I violate Stanford or SPCS policy; 2) in SPCS's sole judgment I present a substantial risk of harm to self or others or engage in actions endangering others or myself; 3) my conduct is considered by SPCS to be disruptive, detrimental or incompatible with the best interest and welfare of the program; 4) I am unable or unwilling to participate meaningfully in education activities; and/or (5) I require a level of care from SPCS that exceeds the resources and staffing that SPCS is able to provide. I understand and agree that if I am dismissed for disciplinary reasons, a tuition refund will not be granted. If I am released for non-disciplinary reasons, my parent or legal guardian may be entitled to a partial refund. Any decision to dismiss or release a participant from the program requires the approval of the Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies Professional Staff or their designee.I further agree, if dismissed from the program, to be responsible for all costs incurred in returning home from Stanford University.

I also further understand that in the event I am arrested Stanford has no obligation to provide legal assistance and, based on local laws and practices, any assistance Stanford may elect to provide may be limited.

Health and Safety:

I understand that I must actively manage my own health and safety and uphold the safety standards of the program. Health and safety guidelines as determined by Stanford University and SPCS may be more rigorous than public and governmental health recommendations. I will comply with Stanford’s COVID policies and SPCS immunization policies, including requirements for vaccination*. I will follow all SPCS and local regulations and understand that if I violate a regulation relating to local health requirements, I will be solely responsible for any penalties or additional costs incurred.

*Stanford community members are encouraged to stay up to date on immunizations and are expected to comply with all local requirements, including any vaccine mandates. Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies requires the MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) vaccine and a tuberculosis test. You can submit a physician’s note in any format indicating your are “Not at high risk for TB” in lieu of a tuberculosis test.

4. Residential Program Policies

Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies (SPCS) regards honesty and integrity as vital to the academic, social, and emotional development of all participants and to build trust in a community. Truthful and ethical behavior is an essential component of the learning process. In order to maintain a positive and supportive environment in the community, participants are expected to adhere to both the letter and spirit of Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies rules and Administrative Guide Memo 1.1.1: University Code of Conduct, which include acting respectfully towards all members of the community. Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies is part of Stanford University, however, in general, behavioral issues will be addressed within Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies and not through other Stanford University offices. Exceptions may be made when Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies participants are found to have violated Stanford University rules or policies. Please note that all Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies employees are employees of Stanford University. All employees and participants must abide by Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies and Stanford University policies.

The following policies are applicable to all residential programs. The admitted participant and a parent/legal guardian must review all sections of this page in full before accepting the offer of admission and completing the Enrollment Agreement.

Social Media
Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies instructors and staff are not permitted to accept social media connection or “friend” requests from current participants, parents/legal guardians of currently enrolled participants or prospective participants, or any former participants who are under eighteen years of age. To the extent that a Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies instructor interacts with participants and/or parents/legal guardians through social media venues, for example via  the program’s video conference system or professional educational sites, the instructor is not responsible for monitoring or reviewing the content or ensuring participants’ compliance with the terms of use of that social media venue.

5. Academic Requirements

I will complete all assignments, including the final research paper or presentation, and understand completion of these is required to receive a Certificate of Completion and instructor evaluation. I understand that if I cannot meet these requirements I must immediately notify SPCS and my instructional team. I understand that if I fail to provide timely notice, or at the sole discretion of SPCS after providing notice, I may be involuntarily withdrawn from the program and subject to penalties.

6. Tuition, Housing, and Fees

SPCS will make arrangements for my housing and meals for the duration of the program, from the scheduled arrival date through the last day of residence. I am required to follow all check-in and move-out procedures listed in the Participant Guide. I am fully responsible for all incidental costs incurred while participating in the Program, including but not limited to airfare to and from the program location and immigration expenses (ex. passport and visa fees).

7. Fitness and Insurance

I attest that I am physically and mentally capable of participating in the Program and traveling to and living on Stanford’s campus and have no known health restrictions that might jeopardize my safety or health or the safety or health of others during their participation in the Program

I give permission for SPCS to provide immediate and reasonable emergency care should it be required. If SPCS learns that student is experiencing serious health problems, has suffered an injury, or is otherwise in a situation raising significant health and safety concerns, SPCS may contact Participant’s emergency contact and share their personal information and documents (including health information) with third parties in furtherance of protecting their health, safety, or security. I agree to be solely responsible for payment in full of all costs of medical or emergency care that Participant may receive.

I agree to obtain and maintain in effect for the full duration of my Program and provide proof in documentation via the CampDoc portal acceptable to SPCS.  Although not eligible for Stanford Cardinal Care, Participants should secure health insurance coverage equal to or greater than that offered by Tier I of the Stanford Cardinal Care Plan. Said coverage shall, at a minimum, include coverage for medical care and treatment at Stanford University medical facilities and Sutter Health facilities and coverage for both medical evacuation and prescription medications. I will be solely responsible for payment-in-full of all costs for medical care I may receive and/or for medical evacuation and/or prescription medications, and waive any right to hold Stanford and/or its agents or employees responsible for any such costs.

8. Emergency Authorization

I understand and agree that if, during participation in the Program, Stanford learns that I am experiencing serious health problems, have suffered an injury, or am otherwise in a situation that raises significant health and safety concerns, SPCS will contact my Parents, Legal Guardian, and/or Designated Adult. My parents or legal guardian will be contacted via email for medical updates (i.e., ibuprofen provided for a fever or sprained ankle) and phone call for any trip to urgent care or the emergency room.  I hereby give permission for Stanford, SPCS, or its representative to provide immediate and reasonable emergency care should it be required.

9. Visas

I am responsible for completing all the necessary steps to obtain a visa (if required) in a timely manner and am responsible for associated costs and for complying with the term of the visa. I understand that I am fully responsible for the visa process and SPCS cannot guarantee that the appropriate visa will be issued to me.

If your home country does not offer a Visa Waiver Program that requires an Electronic Signature for Travel Authorization (ESTA), then the most appropriate visa type to obtain is a B-2 Tourist visa. Details about who is eligible for the Visa Waiver Program and which steps need to be taken in advance can be found here.

Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies Programs cannot sponsor F-type or J-type student visas. Information about B-2 Tourist visas, including details about how to apply, can be found here.

Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies cannot provide advice, information, or recommendations on which visa type is best for your particular circumstance. Any questions about visa requirements or your visa application status should be directed to your local Embassy or Consulate.

10. Content Waiver

Your course may include movie screenings, plays, or material related to the academic scope of the course that are rated PG13, rated R, or contain mature content. Participants may also have the opportunity to join other courses for screenings that take place in venues such as the common lounge or Stanford Theater. Signing the Enrollment Agreement indicates Parent/Legal Guardian consent to the Participant viewing this content and participating throughout the program.

11. Arrival and Departure

I will arrive at the designated check-in location (Program residence hall or designated SFO terminal if taking SPCS transportation from the airport) no later than the designated arrival date specified by SPCS unless I have advance, written permission from the Program to arrive at a later time. Such requests should be made no later than thirty (30) days prior to the designated arrival date. I will depart the designated check-out location no earlier than the last day of residence specified by SPCS unless I have advance, written permission from the Program to depart at an earlier time. I understand that I am required to arrive and depart at the designated check-in and check-out times.

Further, I understand that if I use SPCS-provided transportation to and/or from San Francisco Airport to Stanford University campus, I am responsible for my safety and well-being at the airport before being picked up and/or after being dropped off at the terminal by SPCS staff.

12. Activities Outside the Program

I acknowledge that I am not allowed to participate in any other activities, programs, or events while attending the Program or arrive and depart the Program on any day other than the designated days. I am responsible for completing assigned work and attending all classes, academic activities, and residential activities as part of my participation in the program.

13. Payment Obligation

As stated in the Enrollment Agreement, Parent/Legal Guardian is responsible for paying the full amount of tuition for the Program, less any financial aid awarded. Parent's/Legal Guardian's failure to pay any amount of tuition when due pursuant to the terms of this Agreement may, at Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies' sole discretion, result in Participant being prevented from participating in the Program. Refer to the Enrollment Agreement for the full policy.

Deferral of admission is not permitted under any circumstances.

14. Assumption of Risk, Release of Claims, Indemnification and Hold Harmless

I understand and agree to be bound by the terms set forth in the Stanford University Waiver signed in the Enrollment Agreement.

 

I acknowledge that I have read this SPCS Agreement, understand its meaning and effect, and agree to be bound by its terms.

Updated March 7, 2025