Student Privacy (FERPA explained)

FERPA is a Federal law that protects a student’s privacy interest in his or her ‘education records.’ FERPA provides that educational institutions, such as postsecondary institutions, may disclose education records, or personally identifiable information from such records, only if an eligible student has provided prior written consent, except in several specified circumstances.

The University of Maryland adheres to the policy of compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA):

• To permit students to inspect their educational records.
• To limit disclosure to others of personally identifiable information from education record without student's prior written consent.
• To provide students the opportunity to seek correction of their educational records where appropriate.

  • Prior consent will not be required for disclosure of educational record to school officials of the University of Maryland who have been determined to have legitimate educational interests.
  • Certain information has been designated "Directory Information" and will be disclosed without prior consent unless a student files written notice. Directory information includes, but is not limited to: name, address, telephone/email, date and place of birth, major field of study, full-time/part-time status, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, most recent previous educational agency or institution attended.

For the complete policy on access to and release of student data information see the current edition of the Undergraduate Catalog.

Students who wish to limit the disclosure of Directory Information or wish access to their official records should obtain the appropriate form, fill it out, and return it to the Office of the Registrar Front Counter Services, Clarence M. Mitchell, Jr. Building, first floor.

Students alleging University noncompliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act may file a written complaint with the Family Policy Compliance Office, United States Department of Education, 400 Maryland Ave., S.W. Washington, D.C. 20202-4605.

Faculty/Staff/Student Employees

Faculty, staff and student employees must complete the university's FERPA tutorial prior to being granted access to UMD's student systems. UMD's FERPA tutorial can be found here.