Home >  Student Services >  Admissions & Records >  A&R FAQ >  Access to Student Records by Parents

Access to Student Records by Parents

What rights do parents have under FERPA?
FERPA gives certain rights to parents regarding their children’s educational records; however, rights transfer to the student upon reaching 18 years of age OR if the student is attending any school beyond the secondary level.

When may a parent access a student’s educational records?
- Law allows parental access if student is claimed as a dependent for Federal income tax purposes. (Per Federal income tax guidelines, dependent is defined as under the age of 24 years old).
- Access is granted to both the parent who claims the student as well as the parent who is not claiming the student.
- Parent must complete and submit the Parental Affidavit for Academic Information form each time information is requested (available in the A&R office or online).
- Request is submitted to the Admissions & Records Supervisor. Parent is also required to provide the most recent Federal Income Tax Return filed with the IRS – which shows dependency status of student. The supervisor will verify the Tax Return and note the status on the Affidavit.
- Admissions & Records Office will send a letter of notification to the student regarding the parent's request. After five working days, the parent will be contacted regarding the availability of the student’s records. Copies will be made of any record so requested.

How can a parent access student information if the student is not being claimed by either parent for Federal Income tax purposes?
- Parent can have access only if the student is willing to release information.
- Student must complete the Student Consent for Release of Records form each time information is to be released (available in Admissions & Records Office or online).
- Request is submitted to the Admissions & Records Supervisor for processing.