Murray State University Parent Guide
FERPA
What is FERPA?
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, as amended, is a federal law which provides that colleges and universities will maintain the confidentiality of student educational records. The law basically says that no one outside the institution shall have access to students’ educational records nor will the institution disclose any information from those records without the written consent of students.
There are exceptions, such as allowing certain personnel within the institution with a legitimate educational interest to see the records, or releasing them in an emergency in order to protect the health and safety of students or other persons.
What is Considered Directory Information?
Under the terms of FERPA, Murray State University has established the following as directory information:
- Name
- Addresses
- Telephone numbers
- Date of birth
- Place of birth
- Fields of study
- Classification
- Full/part-time status
- Dates of attendance
- Most recent institution attended
- Participation in recognized athletic sports
- Weight and height of athletes
- Degrees, honors and awards received
The directory information will be available for release to the general public. However, FERPA states that each student has the right to inform MSU that the information is not to be released. In order to withhold release of directory information, a student must notify the Registrar’s Office in writing. The release must be on file prior to the end of the fifth day of the semester.
If you have any questions about FERPA compliance, please contact the MSU Registrar.
MSU Registrar
(270) 809-3380
email
