Grinnell students are challenged to accept responsibility for their actions through a system of self-governance. While students have individual rights in the College community, Grinnell is also an intimate and supportive community founded on the interdependence of all of its members. Upholding community responsibilities and individual rights are equally important. Thus, as in any community, certain rules of behavior and conduct are necessary.

All enrolled students are subject to College policy. These student conduct policies remain in effect throughout the academic year, regardless of whether the College is in session, and apply to college-sponsored events, programs, courses, locations, and properties. Breaches of student responsibility to one's self or the community may be handled by the student conduct system and/or the civil court system. The following community responsibilities and procedures are intended to apply to student behavior; general individual or group student behavior that a faculty member or administrative staff member believes is an action that violates the general community policies or regulations; or behavior of a student's guest.