The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

About FERPA

(FERPA) is a federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. The law applies to all schools that receive funds under an applicable program of the U.S. Department of Education.

For more information regarding FERPA, visit the  or review the Office of the Registrar's notification of student privacy rights, which is sent to all active ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú´«Ã½ÎÄ»¯×÷Æ· students every fall and spring semester.

When You're Protected

At ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú´«Ã½ÎÄ»¯×÷Æ·, FERPA protections go into effect on the first day of classes of your first term of enrollment. FERPA does not apply to records of applicants for admission who are denied acceptance or, if accepted, do not attend an institution. Former students have the same FERPA protections regarding their education records; however, they may no longer request that a privacy status be placed on them.

Your Record Review & Amendment Rights

FERPA affords students who have attended a post-secondary institution the following rights related to their education records:

  • Inspect and review information in your education record
  • Request amendment of your education record
  • Consent to disclosure of personally identifiable information in your education record
  • File a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education (Student Privacy Policy Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20202)

Learn more on our Inspection & Amendment Rights page. 

   Directory Information

Unless you're on full privacy, certain pieces of information in your education record may be released to third parties at ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú´«Ã½ÎÄ»¯×÷Æ·'s discretion.

   Exceptions to Student Consent

Learn under which circumstances your education records can be accessed without your written consent.

   Inspection & Amendment Rights

You have the right to inspect and review information in your education record and request certain amendments.

   Privacy Glossary

Review the definitions of education records, legitimate educational interest, and university official.

Resources