Hazing is not tolerated at the University of Iowa.
University student groups (e.g., registered student organizations, intramural, club and varsity athletic teams, and other student groups), individual students, and those who supervise student group activities are prohibited from hazing. Hazing is prohibited in any form both on campus and off campus.
What is hazing?
Hazing is defined as any intentional or reckless behavior, action, or situation occurring with or without consent that:
- endangers or creates risk of injury
- creates mental or physical discomfort
- hinders student engagement
- harasses
- embarrasses and/or ridicules a person
This includes assisting, approving (implicitly or explicitly), organizing, or otherwise participating in these behaviors for the purpose of initiation into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership or a leadership role in any student organization, fraternity, sorority, or team recognized by the University of Iowa Student Government or by any other university sponsor or department.
A broader, official definition of hazing is available on the hazing policy page.
Report hazing
If you are concerned that an activity may involve hazing, submit a report to the Office of Student Accountability. Call 911 if someone is in immediate danger.
Resources for hazing prevention
If you or a friend are being hazed
Report hazing. If you are concerned that an activity may involve hazing, submit a report to the Office of Student Accountability.
- Stay connected. Keep in contact with friends outside the group. Groups that haze may try to isolate new members from people who could help.
- Talk with someone you trust. You do not have to keep hazing secret, even if you were pressured to promise that you would not tell. Speaking up may protect you or others from harm.
- Support a friend. Encourage them to report the behavior, or submit a report yourself. Review the reporting information on this page.
- Seek guidance. Talk with parents, guardians, family members, trusted friends or university officials.
- Refuse to participate. Consider joining with other members who also oppose hazing.
- Leave the group. Walking away from hazing takes character, courage and integrity.
- Contact a health care provider or mental health professional. They can help you consider your options and next steps.
Call 911 if there is an immediate threat to your safety or the safety of others.
Campus resources
Hazing is not something you have to face alone. These resources offer support and guidance.
- Student Care and Assistance
Crisis support and coordinated assistance for students facing unexpected challenges. - University Counseling Service (UCS)
Confidential counseling and mental health support for students affected by hazing. - Women's Resource and Action Center (WRAC)
Confidential counseling, advocacy and violence-prevention resources for students experiencing abuse or coercion. - DVIP/RVAP
Free, confidential crisis intervention, advocacy and safety planning for people affected by violence or abuse. - Office of the Ombudsperson
Confidential, impartial guidance about hazing concerns, available options and informal conflict resolution. - UI Support and Crisis Line
24/7 mental health crisis support for students and other members of the university community. - Iowa Veteran Education, Transition, and Support (IVETS)
Academic, transition and campus support for veterans and military-connected students affected by hazing.
Hazing prevention training for organizations
Hazing prevention training information for student organizations is coming soon. Contact the Office of Student Accountability with questions.
Hazing Policy
Find details explaining the state and university policies related to hazing instances, reporting hazing, and the process of investigating incidents.
Hazing Prevention Coalition
The Hazing Prevention Coalition is a group of University of Iowa students, staff, and faculty that have come together to address hazing in a coordinated effort.
Hazing Transparency Report
Annual hazing statistics are available in the University’s Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act and Fire Safety Annual Report. Beginning January 1, 2025, the University started collecting hazing data in accordance with federal guidelines.
Iowa Hazing Prevention Week
Details and schedule coming soon.