Will a DUI Affect My College Standing in Tennessee?

 Posted on January 29, 2026 in DUI/DWI/BUI

A DUI charge can affect more than your driving record. For college students in Tennessee, it can also raise concerns about academic standing, campus discipline, and future opportunities. This issue affects many students directly. National traffic safety data often show that drivers between the ages of 21 and 24 make up the largest share of drunk drivers involved in fatal crashes, and men are far more likely than women to be involved in these cases. That age range overlaps closely with the traditional college population.

As of 2026, Tennessee colleges and universities continue to enforce student conduct codes that may apply even when an arrest happens off campus. If you are facing a DUI charge, our Knox County, TN DUI defense lawyer can help. While a DUI does not automatically remove a student from college, it can trigger serious consequences if it is not handled carefully.

What Is a DUI Under Tennessee Law?

In Tennessee, driving under the influence is defined under Tennessee Code Annotated § 55-10-401. A person can be charged with DUI if they drive while impaired by alcohol or drugs or if their blood alcohol concentration is 0.08 or higher.

For drivers under 21, Tennessee applies a stricter standard. Even a lower alcohol level for people younger than legal drinking age can lead to charges and school-related consequences. A DUI charge can exist even if no accident occurred.

Will a DUI Automatically Get Me Kicked Out of College in Tennessee?

A DUI does not automatically result in suspension or expulsion from a Tennessee college. Most schools do not remove students solely because they were arrested.

However, many colleges have student conduct rules that apply to criminal behavior. A DUI may lead to disciplinary review, especially if it involves alcohol misuse, repeat offenses, or conduct that reflects poorly on the school community. The outcome often depends on whether the school learns about the charge and how the case is resolved.

How Do Tennessee Colleges Find Out About a DUI?

Colleges do not usually monitor court records on their own. In many cases, the school only becomes aware of a DUI if the student reports it, the incident happens on campus, or the arrest involves campus police.

Some programs, such as nursing, education, or athletics, may have stricter reporting rules. Scholarships and student housing agreements may also require disclosure of criminal charges. Failing to follow reporting rules can sometimes cause more trouble than the DUI itself.

Can a DUI Affect Scholarships or Financial Aid?

While a DUI does not automatically cancel federal financial aid, some scholarships and private grants include conduct requirements.

A DUI may affect:

• Athletic or academic scholarships with behavior clauses

• Program-specific funding tied to professional conduct

• Eligibility for certain campus jobs or leadership roles

Each school and scholarship program sets its own rules, so the impact can vary widely.

Will My College Discipline Case Be Separate From My Criminal Case?

College discipline and criminal court are two separate systems. A school can take action even if the criminal case is still pending or later dismissed.

College hearings often use a lower standard of proof than criminal court. This means a student could face school penalties even if the DUI charge does not result in a conviction. Possible school consequences may include probation, required counseling, loss of housing, or suspension.

Does a First-Time DUI Always Lead to the Same Outcome?

Outcomes vary based on the facts of the case, the student’s history, and how the charge is handled. Tennessee law sets minimum penalties for DUI offenses, including mandatory jail time and fines under § 55-10-402, but the overall impact can differ.

For students, timing also matters. A DUI during the school year may affect enrollment or housing more than one that occurs during a break.

Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Knoxville, TN DUI Defense Attorney

At The Baker Law Firm, Attorney Lance Baker is known for honest, no-nonsense legal advice, and people across East and Middle Tennessee seek him out for clear guidance. He also serves as CLE Faculty for the Tennessee Bar Association, teaching other attorneys about DUI law and defense. Call 865-200-4117 to schedule your free consultation with a Knox County, TN DUI defense lawyer focused on protecting your college standing and your future.