FERPA and Privacy
Emory University is committed to protecting student privacy in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) and Policy 8.3 Confidentiality and Release of Information About Students,which both outline how student information is handled and shared.
We encourage incoming students and their families to have open conversations about the level of information access that best suits their family’s needs. These discussions can ease the transition to college while fostering a balance between independence and staying informed.
3 Ways Students Can Manage Access to Their Information:
| FERPA Consent Form | Guest Access in OPUS | Campus ESP: Parent Portal | |
| Purpose | Authorizes university staff to share FERPA-protected information with individuals designated by the student. | Provides selected individuals with access to specific sections of the student's OPUS account. | Provides families with campus updates and allows for optional integration of student-approved academic information. |
| What it Covers | Academic records (e.g., grades, withdrawals), conduct records, and other personally identifiable information. | Financial aid, billing, class schedules, and grades. | General campus updates, with optional academic information like grades. |
| How Students Can Grant or Revoke Access | Students: Complete FERPA Consent Form | Students: OPUS > Student Account Tile > Guest Access | Families: Create account on Campus ESP > Click Connect to My Student > Add student's name/Emory email address > Select access requests > Click Connect > Student receives the request |
Access is fully controlled by the student and can be granted or revoked at any time.
Note: Some situations may require a separate FERPA release form. Students will be guided through this by an Emory official if needed.
FERPA Suppression
Information regarding FERPA Suppression can be found on the Registrar’s website. Questions should be directed to the Registrar’s Office by calling 404-727-6042 or via email at vacompliance@emory.edu.