FERPA

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA, also known as the Buckley Amendment) provides that “directory information” about a student is available to the public. The University of Northern Colorado defines directory information as:

    • Name
    • Address & Phone
    • Email Address
    • Enrollment Status
    • Date of Birth
    • Degrees Pursued
    • Dates of Attendance
    • Major
    • Classification
    • Degree Conferred and Dates Conferred
    • Participation in Recognized Sports
    • Honors, Awards, Publications
    • Physical Factors of Athletes

If you wish to restrict public access to your directory information, you must complete the Request to Prevent Disclosure of Directory Information Form and submit it to the Registrar's Office, Carter Hall 3002. If you do not file such a request, this information will be published in University directories and given upon request to the public by mail, phone, or in person.

You should carefully consider the consequences of any decision to withhold any category of directory information. Regardless of the effect upon a student, the University assumes no liability that may arise out of its compliance with a request that such information be withheld.

Who does FERPA apply to?

FERPA applies to students who are or who have been in attendance at a post-secondary institution. It does not cover applicants who are denied admission, those who never attended and deceased students.

When do FERPA rights begin?

FERPA rights begin when a student is "in attendance". UNC defines "in attendance" as the date the student is admitted to the University.

What are student rights under FERPA? Girl smiling

•  The right to prevent disclosure of personally identifiable information from their educational record without consent or permitted exceptions.

•  The right to inspect their educational records.

•  The right to have their records amended if they are believed to be inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student's privacy or other rights.

•  The right to expect that their education records are kept confidential except where special provisions are made.

•  The right to suppress the disclosure of directory information.

•  The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education if they feel their rights are being violated.