What is FERPA and how does it affect parent access to grades?
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) as amended is a federal law which is designed to protect the privacy of and limit access to the educational records of students. This means that institutions generally must withhold such information from parents and others who believe their relationship with the student entitles them to have the information. Wake Forest is able to release information if we have on file a signed FERPA release form. If the student has not signed a FERPA release form, the University generally cannot release the information unless it has proof of the student’s status as a dependent under the Internal Revenue Code for the period covered. FERPA forms must be turned in to the Registrar’s Office.
