A conviction for DUI/DWI can have long-lasting effects on a person’s life, including the denial of an application for admission to a college, university, or other school. A DUI/DWI can also be the basis for probation, suspension, or expulsion from a college, university, or other school—and loss of scholarships—especially if it is the student’s second (or more) DUI/DWI conviction.
Consequences for a DUI/DWI conviction vary from school to school and may also depend on whether the conviction was for a misdemeanor or a more serious felony charge.
In Montana (MT), a conviction for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) or Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) can indeed have significant repercussions on a person's educational opportunities. Educational institutions in Montana, as in other states, have the discretion to consider an applicant's criminal history, including DUI/DWI convictions, when making admission decisions. A DUI/DWI, particularly if it is not the first offense, can lead to denial of admission, as schools may have policies that view such convictions as indicative of a risk to campus safety or contrary to the institution's code of conduct. For current students, a DUI/DWI conviction can result in disciplinary actions such as probation, suspension, or expulsion, depending on the school's policies and the severity of the offense. Additionally, students may face the loss of scholarships or financial aid, which often have conduct requirements. The specific consequences of a DUI/DWI conviction will vary by institution, and whether the conviction is for a misdemeanor or felony can also influence the outcome. It is important for individuals with such convictions to review the policies of the specific college, university, or school they are interested in attending or are currently enrolled in to understand the potential educational impacts.