FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Policy Act)

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 is a federal law which states: (a) that a written institutional policy must be established; and (b) that a statement of adopted procedures covering the privacy rights of students be made available. The law provides that the institution will maintain the confidentiality of student education records.

Where can I get more information about FERPA?

FERPA Policy and Form information for WVU can be found at ferpa.wvu.edu.

The ITS Service Desk is NOT listed under the list of offices to which specific information may be released on the 'Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act Release' form. 

Are all WVU students covered?

Yes. As defined in Board of Governors Policy 10: Student Rights and Responsibilities, a 'student' is any person who has been admitted to an institution to pursue a course of study, research or service, who is currently engaged in an institutionally sponsored activity, and who has some right or privilege to be on the campus or in the facilities of the institution, or to use the same, in connection with study, research or service, or who yet has some right or privilege to receive some benefit or recognition or certification from the institution, under the rules, regulations or policies of the Board of Governors or the institution. Furthermore, West Virginia University accords all the rights under the law to students who are declared independent.

Access to Education Records under this Policy is Limited. Refer to ferpa.wvu.edu for more information. 

Students may allow parents to access specific information using the Parent/Guest Portal. Parents can contact the Office of the Registrar, Registration Unit at 304-293-2121 or the Parents Advocate office at 304-293-5841 with any questions.

Have questions?

Questions concerning the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act may be referred to the Office of the Vice President for Legal Affairs.

105 Stewart Hall 
P.O. Box 6201 
Morgantown, WV 26506-6201 
Phone: 304-293-5841 
Fax: 304-293-5752
legalaffairs@mail.wvu.edu

Parents need to contact the Office of the Registrar, Registration Unit at 304-293-2121 or the Parents Advocate office at 304-293-5841 for their student's information. The ITS Service Desk is NOT listed under the list of offices to which specific information may be released on the 'Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act Release' form nor can the ITS Service Desk confirm the 'FERPA' or 'Dependent FERPA' release forms have been signed and verified.