Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA), as amended, is federal legislation that prohibits us from sharing information about you with other individuals unless the University has certified proof that the individual inquiring on your behalf is your legal guardian, and that you are financially dependent upon that individual.

We cannot tell third parties the balance of your account or the amount of your loan check. We cannot tell third parties if you have paid your statement, or the amount and date of the payment.

Grades and information concerning your enrollment status cannot be released except to state and federal agencies requesting specific information necessary to service you apporopriately. Transcripts are only released under your explicit written authorization.

We recognize that this limitation may cause occasional inconvenience to you, your family, and other interested parties, but we are bound by law to protect your right to privacy. You, of course, can secure this information by visiting our office or calling, when a visit is not possible. However, information such as "grade earned" will not be given over the telephone.

You may choose to restrict further access to your records, such as "directory information." See the Notification of Rights Under FERPA document and online printable Non-Disclosure of Directory Information form. For further information regarding this or other concerns with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, contact:

For additional information regarding FERPA:
Access o Student Educational Records http://www.bc.pitt.edu/policies/policy/09/09-08-01.html
Family Policy Compliance Office http://www.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/index.html