The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

FERPA, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, is a federal law requiring Meredith College to protect the confidentiality of student educational records. Meredith College has adopted the policies outlined below to comply with the law, to inform students of their privacy rights, and to maintain the protection of student educational records.

Although student educational records are protected, Meredith College is not required to protect information that is classified as “directory” information. Meredith College has the right to release the following directory information without a student’s prior consent.

• Name, address, date of birth, telephone number, email address
• Dates of attendance, academic major, degrees and awards received
• Institutions attended
• Weights and heights of athletic team members
• Participation in sports and activities
• Student photographs

Any student who would like her directory information protected under the same guidelines as educational records should submit a written request to the Office of the Registrar.  This written request must be submitted by the 20th classroom day of the Fall or Spring semester. It is not retroactive.

Academic Policies and Procedures

Students have the right under FERPA to inspect and review their education records and to appeal to the appropriate office to have any incorrect information corrected. Student also have the right to file complaints with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act Office concerning alleged failures by Meredith to comply with the Act.

For additional information, contact the Office of the Registrar, 123 Johnson Hall.