What happens to a student’s FERPA rights when they reach the age of 18?

When a student reaches the age of 18, the rights granted under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) transfer from the parents to the student. This means that the student now has the authority to access their educational records, control who may view those records, and make decisions regarding the release of their personal information. Prior to turning 18, parents typically hold these rights. This transition emphasizes the importance of student autonomy and empowerment in managing their own educational information as they mature into responsible adults. It is also crucial to note that this transfer of rights is a fundamental aspect of FERPA, ensuring that students are treated as independent individuals in terms of their personal educational records.