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 Rhode Island, a conviction for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) or Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) can have significant repercussions that extend beyond legal penalties. Educational institutions, including colleges, universities, and other schools, have the discretion to consider a DUI/DWI conviction when making decisions about admissions, and such a conviction can negatively impact a student's acceptance prospects. For current students, a DUI/DWI conviction, particularly if it is not the first offense, can lead to disciplinary actions such as probation, suspension, or expulsion. Additionally, students may face the loss of scholarships or financial aid. The severity of the consequences often depends on the institution's policies and whether the DUI/DWI is classified as a misdemeanor or a felony. Each educational institution in Rhode Island may have its own set of guidelines and disciplinary procedures for handling students with DUI/DWI convictions.