Confidentiality of Student Records
In accordance with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974, USC Aiken students have the right to review, inspect and challenge the accuracy of information kept in a cumulative file by the institution unless the student waives this right. The Act also ensures that records cannot be released to others (including family members) without the written consent of the student.
Some exceptions do apply. In general, educational records may be disclosed to personnel within the institution who have a legitimate educational interest, to parents of students who are dependents as defined by IRS standards (official verification must be provided to the Registrar), to persons or organizations providing students financial aid, to accrediting agencies carrying out their accreditation function, to persons in compliance with a judicial order, or, in an emergency, to persons in order to protect the health or safety of the student or others.
Information classified as “directory information” may be released unless a student has given explicit directions to the contrary. The following categories of information have been designated by the University as directory information: student’s name, local and permanent mailing addresses and telephone numbers, e-mail address, semesters of attendance, enrollment status (full- or part-time), date of admission, date of expected or actual graduation, school, major and minor fields of study, whether or not currently enrolled, classification (freshmen, etc.), type of degree being pursued, degrees, honors, and awards received (including scholarships and fellowships), weight and height of members of athletic teams, and whether the student has participated in officially recognized activities and sports sponsored by the University. Students who do not wish such information released without their consent should notify the Records Office prior to the first day of classes.
Questions concerning this law and the University’s policy concerning release of academic information should be directed to the Records Office.
