What rights do parents have under FERPA?

  • FERPA gives certain rights to parents regarding their children's educational records.
    • Rights transfer to the student
      • upon reaching 18 years of age or
      • attending any school beyond the secondary level.

  • When may a parent access a student's educational records?
    • Law allows parental access if student is claimed as a dependent for Federal income tax purposes.
    • Access is granted to both the parent who claims the student as well as the parent who is not claiming the student.
    • Parent must complete Parental Request for Academic Information (available in the Registrar's Office or academic department) each time information is requested. The following document can be read using Adobe Acrobat Reader.

    • Parental Affidavit for Academic Information (.pdf)

  • How can a parent access student information if the student is not being claimed by either parent for Federal income tax purposes?
    • Parent can have access only if the student is willing to release information.
    • Student must complete Student Consent for Release of Records (available in the Registrar's Office or academic department) each time information is to be released. The following document can be read using Adobe Acrobat Reader.

    • Student Consent for Release of Records (.pdf)

  • A parent may access student information but may not act on the student's behalf except in emergency situations.