Doc Application

[dubiousgradschoolseeker]

Hello GradCafe, 

I have a question and would like non-judgmental responses. Six years ago, I was caught removed from my MA program because of plagiarism, please no lectures. Rightfully so, I received a F in the class. I have grown from the experience, received counseling and received a MA from a different program. I am looking to apply for doctoral programs. I went into the academic portal of my old program and see that I am on a 100 year academic probation!

Doctoral programs ask "have you been suspended from an institution?" and "can you return?". I plan on being completely upfront in my answers because as mentioned I have grown tremendously from the experience and am a better student because of it. I also have mentors from my new program that support me academically. I do not believe that my credibility and academic dreams should be shot over one stupid mistake. Anyway, my question is should I discontinue applying for doc programs because of this? Are the doctoral programs going to investigate further into the situation in my old school? What should I be anticipating?

Again, keep the judgments to yourself and thank you in advance for answering.

[fuzzylogician]

I think it is worth applying, and I think the best strategy is to explain what needs explaining and not to hide or lie about anything (not implying that you are!). More than people get in trouble for actually having committed some stupid mistake in their past, they get in trouble for lying about it. I don't think any grad program is going to investigate beyond what you divulge, as long as you are level with them and can convey that this is a mistake that is in your past. At most they might contact the research integrity office (or whoever) at your previous school, but the school can only provide information as you allow it. It's not that easy to actually get all the details. The fact that you've since completed another program, that it was several years ago, and that you have the support of your current professors, all play in your favor. No one can make you any promises, but I don't think you should just give up and not even try. 

[TakeruK]

I agree with fuzzy on everything. The only thing I'd add is that if you feel comfortable about it, you can talk to one of your mentors and letter writers about the situation. They might think it's helpful to discuss how you have matured as a student in their own letters. If you trust them and feel comfortable sharing, their advice might be very valuable and specific/relevant to the individual applications.