FERPA
What Is FERPA?
FERPA requires that federally funded institutions, under programs administered by the US Department of Education, comply with certain procedures regarding the disclosure and maintenance of educational records. FERPA was not enacted to preclude the disclosure of educational records simply because the records identify a student by name; rather, it was designed to protect the student’s educational information and status as a student. Parents should understand that their rights transfer to the student when they reach the age of 18 or attend a postsecondary school at any age.
Protected Information
According to FERPA, a student is an individual who is enrolled in and actually attends an educational institution. The regulations provide that attendance includes, but is not limited to, attendance in person or by correspondence. Individuals who “attend” classes but are not physically located on a campus are also considered students, including those who attend classes by video conference, satellite, Internet, or other electronic information and telecommunications technologies.
FERPA prohibits the disclosure of a student’s “protected information” to a third party. This prohibition applies whether the disclosure is made by hand delivery, verbally, fax, mail, or electronic transmission. Disclosure also includes providing access to the educational institution’s career center database of student resumes.
What Information is Protected?
FERPA classifies protected information into three categories: educational information, personally identifiable information (PII), and directory information. The limitations imposed by FERPA vary with respect to each category.
Personally identifiable information can only be disclosed if the educational institution obtains the student’s signature on a document specifically identifying the information to be disclosed, the reason for the disclosure, and the parties to whom the disclosure will be made. Examples of PII include a student’s name, date of birth, student ID or SSN, and other information that can be used to distinguish an individual’s identity in relation to academic records.
Educational information cannot be disclosed without the prior approval of the student. FERPA defines “education records” as “records, files, documents, and other materials” that are “maintained by an educational agency or institution, or by a person acting for such agency or institution.” This includes transcripts, GPA, grades, social security numbers, and academic evaluations, as well as records that pertain to an individual’s previous attendance as a student of an institution.
Directory information can be disclosed by the institution without consent. Directory information is defined as “information contained in an education record of a student that would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed.” This includes items such as a list of students’ names, addresses, and telephone numbers, as well as a student ID number (including electronic identifiers) provided it cannot be used to gain access to education records. Directory information, however, does not include a student’s social security number, nor can the social security number be used to confirm directory information. If a student decides to “opt out” of the disclosure of directory information, the “opt out” continues indefinitely. Please contact the Registrar’s Office with any questions.
Release
Rosemont College cannot provide information about a student’s academic records, including performance in a class, grades, or registrations, to a third party without written consent from the student. Information will only be provided after the identity of the third party is verified. Students can revoke FERPA consent at any time. For release information, please contact the Registrar’s Office.
The Rosemont Experience
At Rosemont, we believe that no matter what discipline you study, effective communication and problem solving are cornerstones to success. That’s why students take classes across multiple disciplines—to learn to approach complex situations from multiple angles. We also recognize the importance of real world experience in preparing you for a career. In fact, every student engages in at least one internship, volunteer effort, or service learning opportunity.
In the Heart of Suburban Philadelphia's Iconic Main Line
- Beautiful 58 acre Main Line campus located in serene suburban Philadelphia.
- Access to world class advanced degree programs through exclusive partnerships.
- Rooted in Catholicism we welcome all faiths and beliefs.
- 14 NCAA Division III men’s and women’s sports teams.
- Coveted 11:1 student to faculty ratio providing an unparalleled educational experience.
- An average class size of 13 ensures a high caliber, personalized education.
Academics
Explore all programs and partnerships offered both on campus and online at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
Marita M. Hurst
Registrar
610.527.0200 X2963
[email protected]
[email protected]
Donna Carpenter
Associate Registrar
610.527.0200 x2305
[email protected]
[email protected]
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Inspiration from the Venerable Cornelia Connelly, Foundress of the Society of the Holy Child Jesus,
the Sponsoring Congregation of Rosemont College
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