What is FERPA?

The Family Educational Rights & Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal law that protects the privacy of student education records in institutions that receive funding from the US Department of Education.

What does it mean to you as a parent or family member?

Once a student turns eighteen, or attends school beyond secondary school, the rights of access to the student's records transfer to the student. All academic information regarding your college student goes directly to the student, unless the student has given specific, written permission to release that information to someone else.

Parents of college students typically feel frustrated by FERPA regulations, as they are often the ones co-signing a student loan package and/or covering additional college expenses. But, as previously mentioned, colleges are bound by this rule. Parents and students should discuss FERPA restraints, and establish an open dialogue about academic expectations.

Waiving FERPA rights

Students can waive their FERPA rights pertaining to Financial Aid & Tuition Accounts through their online portal, Koala Connection.

You will want to have a conversation with your student about what this means, and empower them to make the best decision for them.

If they choose not to waive their rights, be supportive and understanding. Remember, they may change their mind later.

Additional reading about FERPA

Information on the federal law

Helpful resources for new & returning college parents