When do the access rights of parents under FERPA change?

The correct choice highlights the pivotal moment when the access rights of parents under FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) change, which occurs when the student turns 18 or begins attending a postsecondary institution. This transition marks the age of majority in many jurisdictions, which grants students independent rights regarding their educational records.

Under FERPA, once students reach this age or enroll in a college or university, they assume control over their educational records, and parental access requires the student’s consent. This shift reinforces the concept of student autonomy regarding personal information and educational records, empowering students to manage their privacy as they enter adulthood or higher education settings.

Other choices do not accurately capture this critical age threshold. For instance, turning 16 or 21 does not directly impact the rights afforded to parents under FERPA in a way that supersedes the rights of the student. Additionally, a student's withdrawal from school does not inherently change the access rights of parents, as the student still retains control over their records even after leaving an institution.