FERPA and Release of Information to parents/spouses

Students have a right to privacy regarding transcripts (including grades). Most institutions require that students first submit a written request to have transcripts/grades disclosed to any third party as the privilege of privacy of this information is held by the student under FERPA.

FERPA has strict guidelines regarding disclosing the educational records of dependent students. Though FERPA allows such disclosure, the act mandates that each institution first publish clearly delineated policies and procedures for the disclosure of these records. The institution must publish these guidelines annually in a format that is easily accessible to interested parties. Most institutions charge their registrar's office with the responsibility to determine how their institutions will comply with FERPA disclosure requirements.  Registrars commonly work with legal council in fashioning and publishing these guidelines. As advisors, it is advisible to check with your registrar's office if you have any questions or concerns before disclosing any student information to third parties.

Institutional interpretations of FERPA