Since FERPA is a complex law, we want to provide some key information before you respond to the FERPA waiver question.
1. How does FERPA relate to your college application?
FERPA regulates the privacy of student education records, which could include your application to the college where you enroll. FERPA also gives you the right to review confidential letters of recommendation provided as part of that application after you enroll.
2. In the application you'll be asked if you want to waive the right to review confidential letters of recommendation. What you should you know about this waiver?
- Waiving your right lets colleges know that you do not intend to read your recommendations, which helps reassure colleges that the letters are candid and truthful.
- Some recommenders may decline to write a letter for you if you do not waive your rights. Check with your counselor or teachers to see if any of them follow such a policy.
3. Still unsure how to respond?
That's OK. Many students are. Before you move on, take a moment to discuss your decision with your counselor, another school official, or your parent/legal guardian.
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