Student Right to Access
 
Students have several rights under FERPA, one of which is the right to inspect and review their education record. FERPA requires that institutions comply with a request by an eligible student for access to education records within a reasonable period of time, but not more than 45 days after receipt of a request. 
 
Students who want to inspect and review their education records should submit a written request that identifies the record(s) to the appropriate record custodian, who will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.
 
If the records are not maintained by the custodian to whom the request was submitted, that custodian will advise the student of the correct school official to whom their request should be addressed.
 
Practical Implications
Students review of requested education records can be conducted either in person or in a remote format, provided appropriate identity verification is utilized.
 
When compiling documents for a student to inspect and review, ensure no other student education record information is included or disclosed.
 
Record custodians are generally not required to provide eligible students with copies of education records unless circumstances effectively prevent an eligible student from exercising their right to inspect and review the education records, such as when the student no longer lives within commuting distance. Students have the right to a copy of the education record or other arrangements must be made for the student to inspect and review the requested records, such as a remote opportunity or at a school located closer to the student.
 
For additional FERPA information, be sure to review the Office of the Registrar site for FERPA for Faculty, Staff, and Administrators.

A new training is now available for university personnel on FERPA: Implications for Faculty, Staff & Advisors (TrainTraq #2114557). The current schedule is available within TrainTraq by searching either the course title or number and includes in person and zoom offerings. Individuals within the Office of the Registrar are available to participate in a FERPA question and answer session for any department or college faculty or staff meeting. To make arrangements, please call 979-845-1711 or submit a request to ferpa@tamu.edu.
 
If you have a topic that you are interested in being explored in a future Friday Fun with FERPA, please email ferpa@tamu.edu. Alternatively, you can submit an anonymous form with topic ideas HERE.