How to Report Sexual Assault in College and Pursue a Claim
A student who is sexually assaulted has more choices than most people realize: a free medical exam without going to the police, a confidential counselor, a Title IX complaint that can change classes and housing, a police report, and a civil claim for damages. You can use some, all or none of them, in your own time. This guide explains each option, what the college has to give you in writing, and the deadlines that matter.
What happens when you reach out
- You tell us what happenedSend the short form or call. It takes about a minute, and you share only what you are comfortable with.
- A claim specialist reviews itWe look at your deadlines, the insurer or agency involved, and the records your claim will need.
- We call you backUsually the same day, to explain your options. There is no cost and no obligation.
Prefer to talk now? Call (833) 333-0905 or text 954-933-5065.
Talk it through privately
Share only what you are comfortable with. A claim specialist reviews it and calls you back, usually the same day.
Legal Lawsuit is not a law firm. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship.
On this page
Your options at a glance
Campus counseling centers, health services and many victim advocates can talk with you confidentially. Talking to them does not start a school investigation.
A formal complaint can lead to an investigation and discipline. Supportive measures such as class, housing or work changes are available even without one.
A criminal report can lead to charges and protective orders. It is your choice, and you can make it later.
A claim against the attacker, and sometimes the school, can pay for therapy, lost tuition and wages, and the harm itself.
The medical exam and evidence
A sexual assault medical forensic exam treats injuries, checks for pregnancy and infections, and collects evidence. Under the Violence Against Women Act, victims must not be required to file a police report to receive a free exam (U.S. Office for Victims of Crime). That means you can have evidence collected now and decide about police later.
Evidence is strongest when collected soon, so if you can, avoid showering or changing clothes before the exam, and bring the clothes you were wearing in a paper bag. Save texts, social media messages and the names of anyone you saw that night. Screenshots with the date visible help.
What the college must give you
Colleges that take part in federal student aid programs must follow the Clery Act. When a student or employee reports sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence or stalking, the school must provide a written explanation of their rights and options, and information about (U.S. Department of Justice, OVW):
- counseling, health, mental health, victim advocacy and legal help, on campus and in the community
- visa and immigration help and student financial aid
- how to request changes to classes, housing, transportation and work
- protective measures, and how to ask for them
Keep that written notice. It names the offices and deadlines at your school and is useful evidence of what the school knew and when.
Making a Title IX report
Title IX bars sex discrimination, including sexual assault, at colleges that receive federal funds. The Department of Education enforces the 2020 Title IX regulations, which it formally restored to the Code of Federal Regulations in September 2026 (Federal Register). For colleges, the duty to respond begins when the Title IX Coordinator or an official with authority to act learns of the assault, so report directly to the Title IX office if you want the school to act.
A formal complaint leads to an investigation and, at colleges, a live hearing where each side's advisor can ask questions. You can have an advisor of your choice, and the school must offer supportive measures while the process runs. If the school mishandles the complaint or retaliates, a complaint to the Office for Civil Rights must be filed within 180 calendar days (ED OCR).
A civil claim for damages
Neither a Title IX finding nor a criminal case pays the survivor. A civil claim does. It can be brought against:
- The attacker, for the assault itself. The survivor does not need a conviction, and the standard of proof is lower than in a criminal case.
- The college, when an official who could act knew of the risk or the assault and responded with deliberate indifference, or when the school was negligent, for example with campus security or a known repeat offender.
- Others, such as a fraternity, housing company or event host that ignored a known danger.
Damages can include counseling and medical costs, lost tuition or scholarships if you had to withdraw, lost income, and the emotional harm of the assault.
Deadlines in two states
For assaults on adults, the deadline depends on the state and on who the claim is against. California and Florida show how much it varies:
| State | Deadline | Source |
|---|---|---|
| California | For sexual assault that happened on or after the survivor's 18th birthday, the later of 10 years from the last act, or 3 years from when the survivor discovered or should have discovered the injury it caused. | Cal. Code Civ. Proc. §340.16 |
| Florida | 4 years for a claim of battery or another intentional tort against the attacker; 2 years for a claim founded on negligence, such as a claim that a school or property owner failed to keep students safe. | Fla. Stat. §95.11(3)(n), (5)(a) |
Public universities are government bodies, so a claim against one can also require written notice before a lawsuit. If the assault happened when you were under 18, different and often longer limits apply; see how a child sexual abuse claim works.
Common questions
Do I have to report to the police to file a claim?
No. A civil claim and a Title IX complaint do not require a police report, although a report can help as evidence.
What if I was drinking?
Being intoxicated does not make an assault your fault. Many state laws treat a person who is too intoxicated to consent as unable to consent.
Can I still make a claim after I graduate or leave school?
Yes, as long as the deadline for your state has not passed. Leaving school does not end a civil claim, though it can affect Title IX options.
Is the claim review confidential?
Yes. It is free and private. Nothing is reported to your school or the police unless you choose to.
Want to understand your options first?
Call (833) 333-0905 any time, or send the short form. A claim specialist will walk through the choices and deadlines with you, at no cost.
Legal Lawsuit is an information and claim-review service, not a law firm, and does not provide legal advice. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Time limits and school policies vary by state and institution and change over time; confirm what applies to you with a licensed attorney. Legal Lawsuit and TortAdvisor are under common ownership.
