Frequently Asked Questions: FERPA

FERPA Overview

• What is FERPA? To what information does it apply?

• What are student educational records? What is included?

• What rights are covered under FERPA?

• Who are considered parents and eligible students?

• What is classified as directory information?

• Who has access to student educational records?

• What is a legitimate educational interest? Who is deemed to have it?

• Who should I contact with questions or concerns?

Student FAQs

• What are my rights under FERPA?

• When do FERPA rights begin?

• Can my parent(s)/guardian(s) obtain information about me?

• What is classified as directory information?

• Who can access my educational records?

• How do I restrict the release of my directory information?

• How do I authorize the release of my educational record?

• Who should I contact with questions or concerns?

Parent FAQs

• May I access my child's student records?

• May I view my child's grades, exams, or academic progress?

• What happens in crisis or emergency situations?

• Who should I contact with questions or concerns?

Faculty FAQs

• May I access confidential information about students?

• How does FERPA affect letters of recommendation?

• What information may I disclose to parents?

• Does FERPA affect the return of assignments?

• Does FERPA affect the posting of grades?

• How do I properly dispose of confidential information?

• Who should I contact with questions or concerns?

Staff FAQs

• What information about students may I release to College faculty and staff members?

• What information about students may I release to parents/guardians?

• What is directory information?

• Do I have to release student directory information?

• Do I have to keep a record of the release of information from a student's educational record?

• What is included in student educational records?

• Who is deemed to have legitimate educational interest?

• What do I do if I receive a subpoena?

• May I release confidential information to officially registered student organizations?

• How do I properly dispose of confidential information?

• Who should I contact with questions or concerns?

This FERPA FAQs section was modeled after the Office of the Registrar at The University of Texas at Austin's FERPA and your privacy site.