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FERPA

FERPA (The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974) is a federal law pertaining to the release of and access to student educational records. FERPA protects students’ rights regarding the privacy and accuracy of education records. 

FERPA applies to all schools that receive funds under applicable programs administered by the U.S. Department of Education. Institutions are responsible for ensuring that all of its school officials comply with FERPA. Failure to comply could ultimately lead to a withholding of funds administered by the Secretary of Education.

Resources

Compliance

Information on regulations and recent guidance, FERPA basics, and the AACRAO 2012 FERPA Guide.

FERPA Professor Archive

The FERPA Professor is dedicated to addressing inquiries regarding FERPA interpretation and application for professionals in the field of higher education on a continual basis.

FERPA Self-Assessment

Complete the Registrar’s Self-Assessment tool, which includes an entire section devoted to legal issues, including FERPA.

Publications

AACRAO offers a valuable library of resources on FERPA and other higher education issues.

Training

FERPA Compliance Online Training package

This interactive, online training course covers FERPA basics for all faculty and staff. The training focuses broadly on defining key terms from within the regulations and outlining what actions are required or permitted under FERPA and provides powerful tracking tools available within your Learning Management System (LMS), allowing you to check completion rates, pass rates, and particular areas of concern quickly and easily.

On-site training and Consulting

AACRAO Senior Fellow LeRoy Rooker, the nation's leading FERPA authority, provides tailored, on-campus FERPA training for faculty and staff, including student workers, and review your institution’s FERPA practices, provide an assessment and suggested best practices. 

Compliance Audits and Vendor Product Reviews

AACRAO Senior Fellow LeRoy Rooker, the nation's leading FERPA authority, conducts a comprehensive review, department by department, of business processes and products to find any non-compliant practices and issue a set of formal recommendations.

leroyAACRAO Senior Fellow LeRoy Rooker is the nation's leading authority on the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), a comprehensive federal law that provides privacy protections for student education records. 

Learn more about LeRoy Rooker

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Ask the FERPA Professors
Dec 9, 2024

The professors answer questions regarding access to the student record following separation from the university.

C&U journal cover with LeRoy Rooker headshot

C&U Special Interview with LeRoy Rooker
Dec 9, 2024

College & University (C&U) concluded its “50 Years of FERPA” series with a special interview in the fall issue with LeRoy Rooker, the nation’s leading authority on the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

Ask the FERPA Professors
Oct 25, 2024

The professors answer questions regarding the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and how it applies to political campaigning purposes.

Ask the FERPA Professors
Sep 27, 2024

The FERPA Professor weighs in on the use of A.I. recording in the classroom.

Ask the FERPA Professors
Sep 16, 2024

The FERPA Professor answers a complicated question involving electronic signatures and the "safe harbor" provision.

Ask the FERPA Professors
Sep 2, 2024

The FERPA Professor answers a question about who qualifies as a "school official" and information release.

Ask the FERPA Professors
Aug 19, 2024

The FERPA Professors answer a question about the appropriateness of non-directory information release to a student loan servicer.

Ask the FERPA Professors
Aug 5, 2024

The FERPA Professors answer a question related to faculty requests for data and how that data can be used for legitimate research.

Ask the FERPA Professors
Jul 22, 2024

The FERPA Professors provide detailed advice for IT departments looking to remain in compliance when issuing password resets.

Ask the FERPA Professors
Jun 24, 2024

The FERPA Professors comments on the definition of a "student" and whether applicants can be defined as such.

Ask the FERPA Professors
May 27, 2024

The FERPA Professor comments on directory information disclosure in the case of a subpoena, what is required and what is not.

Ask the FERPA Professors
May 14, 2024

The FERPA Professor comments on the necessity of written consent and information sharing.

Ask the FERPA Professors
Apr 29, 2024

The FERPA Professor considers appropriate disclosure in the case of a Federal Grand Jury subpoena.

Ask the FERPA Professors
Apr 15, 2024

The FERPA Professor reflects on exceptions in the case of a GAO (Government Accountability Office) audit.

Ask the FERPA Professors
Feb 19, 2024

The FERPA Professor examines the terms "School Official" and "Legitimate Education Interest" as applied to student workers.

Ask the FERPA Professors
Feb 5, 2024

The FERPA Professor answers a question about a court subpoena and FERPA compliance.

Ask the FERPA Professors - 50th Anniversary
Jan 22, 2024

The FERPA Professor gives guidance on directory information, consent, and disclosures.

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Jan 5, 2024

The FERPA Professor gives guidance on the case of a breach in treatment records and why those records are no longer exempt.

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Dec 21, 2023

The FERPA Professor responds to an interesting question relating to the recordation requirement and what to include on student records.

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Dec 8, 2023

The FERPA Professor responds to a question on information disclosure, consent, and timelines.

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Ask the FERPA Professor
Oct 30, 2023

The FERPA Professor answers a question regarding legitimate educational interest.

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Ask the FERPA Professor
Oct 16, 2023

The FERPA Professor answers a question regarding "school official" definitions.

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Ask the FERPA Professor
Oct 2, 2023

The FERPA Professor answers a question about releasing transcripts from other institutions.

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Ask the FERPA Professor
Sep 18, 2023

The FERPA Professor answers a question touching on the practice of witholding transcripts and a students' right to inspect and review educational records.

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Ask the FERPA Professor
Sep 5, 2023

The FERPA Professor answers a question regarding who and what qualifies as a "legitimate educational interest".

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Ask the FERPA Professor
Aug 18, 2023

The FERPA Professor answers a series of questions regarding directory information, opt-out requirements, and intitutional obligations.

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Ask the FERPA Professor
Aug 4, 2023

The FERPA Professor answers a question the Student ID and directory information designation.

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Ask the FERPA Professor
Jul 21, 2023

The FERPA Professor answers a question about non-disclosure requests and directory information.

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Ask the FERPA Professor
Jul 10, 2023

The FERPA Professor answers a question about providing student records through alternative means.

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Ask the FERPA Professor
Jun 26, 2023

The FERPA Professor answers a question about the Solomon Amendment and directory information.

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Ask the FERPA Professor
Jun 12, 2023

The FERPA Professor answers an interesting question about recordkeeping, state law, FERPA, and student disclosure.

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
May 30, 2023

The FERPA Professor answers a question regarding the 45-day requirement and student requests.

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Ask the FERPA Professor
May 15, 2023

The FERPA Professor answers a question regarding class schedules and directory information.

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Ask the FERPA Professor
May 1, 2023

The FERPA Professor answers a question from a higher education vendor regarding a questionable request from an institution.

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Ask the FERPA Professor
Apr 17, 2023

The FERPA Professor answers a question regarding record responsibility and control at the point of matriculation.

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Live from #AACRAO2023: Ask the FERPA Professor
Mar 28, 2023

A series of in-depth FERPA questions answered by LeRoy Rooker "The FERPA Professor" and Dr. Helen B. Garrett.

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Mar 6, 2023

The FERPA Professor answers a question pertaining to applicants, education records, and institutional responsibility.

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Feb 20, 2023

The FERPA Professor answers a question about a possible FERPA violation and a suspended student.

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Feb 6, 2023

The FERPA Professor answers an interesting question about a situation common for most institutions.

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Jan 23, 2023

The FERPA Professor answers tough questions about possible FERPA violations, education record definitions, and more.

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Dec 12, 2022

The FERPA Professor answers a question about student consent methodology and practice in the case of a deceased student.

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Nov 14, 2022

The FERPA Professor answers a question about student consent methodology and practice.

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Ask the FERPA Professor
Oct 17, 2022

The FERPA Professor answers two member questions regarding information disclosure and directory information.

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Ask the FERPA Professor
Oct 3, 2022

The FERPA Professor discusses allowed technology and possible FERPA violations.

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Ask the FERPA Professor
Sep 19, 2022

The FERPA Professor student education record disclosure and allowed exceptions.

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Ask the FERPA Professor
Sep 6, 2022

Ask the FERPA Professor contributor Dr. Helen B. Garrett provides real-world tips on maintaining compliance.

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Aug 8, 2022

The FERPA Professor looks at what qualifies as an "Education Record" and provides guidance as it relates to FERPA.

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Jul 25, 2022

The FERPA Professor answers an unusual FERPA request regarding the release of academic records.

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Jul 11, 2022

The FERPA Professor answers questions regarding Rights of “Access and Review” of Records.

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Jun 24, 2022

Understanding the difference between "registered" vs. "enrolled."

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Jun 13, 2022

Enrollment status, directory information, and FERPA.

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
May 31, 2022

Advice for handling incidental data disclosure.

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
May 16, 2022

The FERPA Professor answers questions regarding outsourcing and third-party contractors.

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Apr 19, 2022

The FERPA professor tackles questions regarding identity verification.

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

The FERPA Professor
Mar 7, 2022

The FERPA Professor examines the disclosure of student medical treatment records and provides guidance.

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Feb 21, 2022

The FERPA Professor addresses questions regarding data retention policies and right to access.

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Jan 24, 2022

AACRAO's FERPA Professor examines issues regarding zoom recordings and "student education records."

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Jan 10, 2022

The FERPA Professor gives advice on utilizing 3rd party vendors and maintaining control of student records.

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask The FERPA Professor
Dec 27, 2021

The FERPA Professor discusses updates and changes to the Solomon Amendment.

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Oct 4, 2021

The FERPA Professor discusses rules around dual enrollment and outside access.

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Sep 7, 2021

The FERPA Professor weighs in on Name/Likeness rules and personally identifiable information.

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Jul 12, 2021

The FERPA Professor answers a member questions regarding research and record notation.

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Jun 28, 2021

The FERPA Professor answers questions regarding the recordation provision and inadvertent information release.

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
May 3, 2021

The FERPA Professor answers member questions regarding the recordation provision and dual enrollment.

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Mar 22, 2021

The FERPA Professor weighs in on "directory information" requests and when disclosure is required.

cartoon figure, reminiscent of Einstein, stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Jan 25, 2021

Are academic advisors' notes considered "education records" under FERPA?

cartoon figure, reminiscent of Einstein, stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Jan 11, 2021

Is it a FERPA violation to provide teaching assistants gradebook access?

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Nov 29, 2020

Are faculty virtual open office hours a violation of FERPA?

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Oct 4, 2020

Does HIPPA apply to treatment records at our institution?

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Sep 8, 2020

Can an electronic signature be used for FERPA releases?

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Aug 23, 2020

A question of mass emails.

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Aug 11, 2020

A military recruiter requests unusual information.

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Jul 13, 2020

Can you notify people if a staff or student tests positive for COVID-19?

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Jun 30, 2020

Video-recording students to prevent cheating: an education record?

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Jun 10, 2020

Does tuition money added to student paychecks count as financial aid under FERPA?

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Jun 2, 2020

Can our institution provide information to the Census Bureau?

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Apr 19, 2020

Is a recorded Zoom meeting considered a student record?

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Feb 24, 2020

Is a student complaint part of their educational record?

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Oct 18, 2019

Regarding the sharing of recorded class sessions.

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Sep 9, 2019

Is a contracted lawyer a designated school official?

cartoon figure reminiscent of Einstein stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Aug 26, 2019

Is a check box on an online form an acceptable electronic "signature" for FERPA release?

cartoon figure, reminiscent of Einstein, stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
May 25, 2019

Does AACRAO certify vendors as FERPA-compliant?

cartoon figure, reminiscent of Einstein, stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
May 13, 2019

Do parents have access without student consent?

cartoon figure, reminiscent of Einstein, stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Mar 5, 2019

Communicating with high schools about students in dual credit courses.

Illustrated figure resembling Einstein standing next to a chalk board with the word "FERPA" written on it.

Ask the FERPA Professor
Feb 18, 2019

A question about date of birth as directory information.

Illustrated figure resembling Einstein standing next to a chalk board with the word "FERPA" written on it.

Ask the FERPA Professor
Jan 30, 2019

Internship/Practicum verification

cartoon figure, reminiscent of Einstein, stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Oct 29, 2018

4 common violations to watch out for.

cartoon figure, reminiscent of Einstein, stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Oct 16, 2018

Notifying students under subpoena.

cartoon figure, reminiscent of Einstein, stands in front of a chalkboard with the board "FERPA" written on it

Ask the FERPA Professor
Oct 2, 2018

Can student ID be part of directory information?

Ask the FERPA Professor
Mar 12, 2018

A question about institutional police department's law enforcement records involving students.

Ask the FERPA Professor
Aug 22, 2017

Participation in data sharing (gender and ethnicity) with accrediting agency.

Ask the FERPA Professor
Jun 26, 2017

A question about faculty contract dates and email and online roster access.

Ask the FERPA Professor
Jun 12, 2017

A disagreement with the IT department about directory information.

Ask the FERPA Professor
Feb 20, 2017

Ask the FERPA Professor
Feb 9, 2016

Does FERPA require us to prevent users from syncing the data to home computers?

Ask the FERPA Professor
Mar 23, 2015

Do you need a student's permission to send a reverse transfer transcript?

Ask the FERPA Professor
Dec 16, 2014

Follow-up questions about student misconduct on transcripts.

Ask the FERPA Professor
Aug 12, 2014

Can an online consent form be used to defer rent payments until aid money comes in?

Ask the FERPA Professor: Is this a legitimate educational interest?
Aug 27, 2013