Age of Consent

Gallaudet University and the Clerc Center follow the laws of the District of Columbia concerning sexual activity, including regulations regarding age of consent and the age differences between participants in consensual sexual activities.

Specifically, in the District of Columbia, the age of consent for sex is 16 years old. The exception to the age of consent law is if the individuals involved in sexual activity are both minors (younger than 18 years old) and close in age (less than four years apart).  While the Clerc Center is in session or while Clerc Center students are under the care of the Clerc Center, all types of sexual activity, on or off campus, are prohibited. Clerc Center students who engage in sexual activity receive consequences outlined in their school Parent-Student Handbook. Consequences differ for sexual activity determined to be consensual than for sexual activity determined to be nonconsensual. A student who engages in sexual activity that violates the District of Columbia age of consent law and/or without the effective consent of the other individual is committing a crime and may be prosecuted.