Is there a specific format required for consent under FERPA?

Under FERPA, the primary requirement for consent is that it must be in writing. This allows educational institutions the flexibility to obtain consent in various forms as long as it is documented. The regulation does not mandate a specific type of document or form to be used; therefore, written consent could be in the form of a letter, an email, or other written communications.

This provision ensures that students have the ability to provide their consent in a manner that is convenient for them, while still maintaining the legal requirement of written documentation. The focus of FERPA is to protect student privacy, and having a written consent ensures that there is a clear record of the student's permission regarding the disclosure of their educational records.