What Is FERPA?

Student privacy, in plain language.

FERPA is the federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. Here’s what it means for students and families, and how to stay connected the right way.

I’m a parent or family member I’m a student
The one thing to know

In college, the student holds the rights.

Once a student enrolls at a college or university, FERPA rights belong to the student, at any age. Allen generally needs the student’s written consent before sharing their records, even with parents.

For Parents & Families

You’re still part of the journey.

FERPA changes how information is shared, not how much your support matters. These are the questions families ask most.

Best tip: Talk with your student about what you’d like to stay informed on, and decide together whether they’ll share it directly or give written consent.

Can I see my student’s grades?

Not automatically. Your student can share their grades with you directly, or give written consent through the Registrar’s Office so Allen can release information to you.

My student is under 18. Do I still need consent?

Yes. FERPA rights move to the student once they enroll at a college or university, regardless of age.

I pay the bill. Doesn’t that give me access?

Paying tuition doesn’t give access to education records on its own. Allen offices may need your student’s written consent before discussing their records with you.

How does my student give consent?

Your student can contact the Office of the Registrar to provide written consent that names who may receive their information.

Can my student order transcripts for me?

Yes. Transcripts are released only with the student’s authorization. Your student can order one online and have it sent where it’s needed.

What if there’s an emergency?

FERPA allows schools to share information without consent when it’s needed to protect the health or safety of a student or others.

For Students

Your four rights under FERPA.

Allen University may not release information from your education records without your written consent, with limited exceptions such as university officials with a legitimate educational interest.

  1. Inspect your records

    You may review your education records within 45 days of the day Allen receives your request.

  2. Request a correction

    You may ask Allen to amend records you believe are inaccurate or misleading.

  3. Give consent

    You decide who may receive your personally identifiable information, except where FERPA allows disclosure without consent.

  4. File a complaint

    You may file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education if you believe Allen has not followed FERPA.

File a complaint with: Student Privacy Policy Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20202 · studentprivacy.ed.gov

Directory Information

What Allen may share without consent

FERPA allows schools to release “directory information” without consent. Allen University designates the following as directory information:

  • Name
  • Enrollment status
  • Major
  • Classification
  • Activities & sports
  • Athletes’ physical statistics
  • Dates of attendance
  • Degrees & honors
  • Photographs

Want your directory information kept private?

Submit an Information Disclosure Request Form to the Registrar’s Office by the first day of class each academic year.

Request the form →
Questions About FERPA?

The Registrar’s Office can help.

For consent forms, record requests, or questions about privacy, contact the Office of the Registrar.

Office of the Registrar → Order a transcript → Parents & families →
Office of the Registrar

Mrs. Melika Jackson, Registrar

Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

(803) 376-5827 mjackson@allenuniversity.edu