Formal Complaints at Okanagan College

Okanagan College is committed to creating a safe, respectful and welcoming environment. If you've experienced an issue, there are formal complaint processes available to ensure your concerns are acknowledged and addressed.

This article outlines how to submit different kinds of formal complaints and where to find more information or support. 

Submitting a formal complaint

Types of Complaints:

• Student complaint  
  Use this if your complaint is about a College service, decision or employee.
• Student non-academic misconduct 
  Use this for concerns about a student’s behaviour (e.g., harassment, bullying, inappropriate conduct).
• Sexual violence and misconduct  
  Use the Survivor Support Form or Anonymous Disclosure Form if you’ve experienced sexual violence or misconduct and would like to make a disclosure or seek support.
• Academic integrity concern 
  Use the Academic Integrity Reporting Form to report concerns about cheating, plagiarism or other breaches of academic integrity.

How to submit a complaint form:

• Visit Feedback and Complaints webpage to choose and submit the appropriate form.

Want more details?

• For more information about the policies and procedures related to each complaint type, visit the Okanagan College Policies webpage.

Need help or not sure which form to use?

• Contact Coordinated Support Services at occares@okanagan.bc.ca if you'd like support navigating your options or need help completing a form. 

FAQs

Q1: What if I’m not sure whether I want to submit a formal complaint or need help filling out the form?  
A1: If you’re unsure about submitting a formal complaint or would like help completing an online form, you can connect with Coordinated Support Services. We can meet with you to explain the process, help you decide if you want to move forward and assist you with writing and submitting your complaint. We are here to support you through the process. 
 
Q2: Can I talk to someone for support around how this situation is affecting me personally?
A2: Yes. If you’re looking for emotional support or want to talk through how the situation is impacting you, you can reach out to Counselling Services or Coordinated Support Services for help getting connected to campus and community resources.

Q3: I don’t have a complaint, but I wanted to provide general feedback. Where can I do that? 
A3: We love to receive feedback! You can submit your feedback here.  

Resources and links

• Student Complaint Policy 
  Student Non-Academic Conduct Policy  
  Academic Integrity Policy
• Sexual Violence Support Webpage  
  Sexual Violence and Misconduct Policy
• Anonymous Disclosure Form 
  Survivor Support Form 
  General Feedback Form
• Feedback and Complaints Webpage
• OC Policies Webpage
• Coordinated Support Services Webpage
• Counselling Services Webpage 

Conclusion and next steps

Filing a complaint helps the college understand your experience and take appropriate steps. While submitting a complaint does not guarantee a specific outcome, it ensures your voice is heard.

If you’re unsure where to begin or need support along the way, Coordinated Support Services is here to help at occares@okanagan.bc.ca.