For Students

Person walking down a brick path, under a wooden structure, surrounded by trees

Students often visit the Office of the Ombudsperson when they need help resolving concerns with peers, faculty, or administration. The Office provides an independent, impartial, and confidential space to discuss your concerns and identify solutions. It's also a great place to seek clarity on university policies and procedures, ensuring students understand their rights and responsibilities. 

By accessing the resources at the Office of the Ombudsperson, students can gain confidential advice and support without fear of retaliation or judgment. The office helps students develop effective problem-solving strategies and empowers them to take appropriate actions by understanding their options and rights. Additionally, staff in the Office can connect students with other helpful campus resources, such as Campus Wellness or academic support.

If you feel you have been treated unfairly or have a grievance, the Office of the Ombudsperson can offer support and advice on how to proceed. Sometimes, just having someone impartial to talk to can significantly reduce stress and anxiety related to academic or personal matters. We look forward to connecting with you! 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Ombudsperson?

An Ombudsperson is an impartial, confidential, and informal support that provides assistance to students and helps them navigate matters related to student life. They promote transparency, accountability, integrity, respect, and accessibility, ensuring student voices are heard and valued in a fair and equitable academic environment. 

Are there things the Ombuds Office cannot help me with?
  • Be anyone’s advocate; staff in the Office must remain impartial and cannot take the side of an individual or the institution.
  • Intervene where a formal process (e.g. appeal, grievance, legal proceeding) has been commenced or overturn or influence decisions resulting from such processes.
  • Provide counselling or legal advice.
  • Decide who is right or wrong.
  • Make any orders or direct anyone to do or refrain from doing anything.
  • Change policies or regulations.
  • Overturn decisions.
  • Receive formal complaints, intervene, or assist in matters unrelated to the University.

When should I visit the Ombuds office?

We recommend visiting the Ombuds Office as early as possible. Whether you are experiencing an issue or concern or are just unsure of where to start, the Ombuds Office can act as a confidential sounding board and provide guidance on potential next steps to address the matter.

What will happen if I consult the Ombuds Office?

Staff in the Office will listen to your concerns without judgement - they may take notes during your conversation, but all notes will be kept confidential. You may be asked to clarify points and provide additional information, and to identify the outcome you are seeking. These questions help our staff in determining if the Ombuds Office is the right place for your concern and identify the policy or procedure that applies to your situation. 

Staff in the Office will then discuss the next steps. These may include: 

  • If the Ombuds Office isn't the appropriate place for your concern, they may refer to another resource or support office.
  • Give advice and help you plan a strategy to address your concerns.
  • Discuss possible outcomes that are reasonable and fair.
  • Empower you to engage in the next steps of your plan by having a clear understanding of your rights and responsibilities.

For more information about what happens when you visit the office, check out the Ombuds Office Intake Guide.