The use, sale, manufacture, distribution, possession, or facilitation of any illegal or controlled drug is specifically prohibited by MIT policy in addition to violating federal and Massachusetts state law. Such actions can subject a student or employee to arrest by MIT Police or other law enforcement agencies. Criminal penalties for violation of such laws range from fines to imprisonment for terms up to and including life in prison.

More information on penalties for drug violations under federal law is available here.

The city of Cambridge prohibits the consumption of alcohol in public places, and anyone found in violation may face a fine of up to $50.

Violations by students may also be referred to the Committee on Discipline or the Division of Student Life.

Other Sanctions

A student will be ineligible for financial aid if the student is convicted of an offense under federal or state law involving possession or sale of a controlled substance, provided the conduct occurred while the student was enrolled and receiving financial aid. Ineligibility will run from the date of conviction for the following periods of time:

• For drug possession: a first offense carries a one-year disqualification, a second offense carries a two-year disqualification, and a third offense makes the student ineligible indefinitely.
• For sale of a controlled substance: a first offense carries a two-year disqualification, and a second offense makes the student ineligible indefinitely.

A student can regain eligibility by successfully completing an approved drug rehabilitation program.