Why is academic honesty important?

Academic honesty is important for students because it helps them establish and maintain trust with instructors. It also develops positive ethical habits for future employment. Students who cheat or plagiarize risk negative consequences, such as grade deductions, suspension or expulsion from a college.

College education is intended to help people improve their knowledge and life skills in preparation for a successful life and career. Academic honesty ensures that a student gets credit for his own work and receives constructive feedback on his own work. Even if a successful grade is received from stolen work, the student loses the valuable experience and feedback.