FERPA Facts

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal law designed to protect the privacy of a student's education records. It applies to schools receiving funds through a U.S. Department of Education program.

Once a student turns 18, information from his/her student record can not be shared with others - including parents - unless he gives written permission. The law does allow an institution to disclose records without consent in some special cases. These include health and safety emergencies.

Source: Family Policy Compliance Office of the U.S. Department of Education