University of Minnesota Policies
Student privacy and rights regarding academic records are protected by the Regents Policy on Student Education Records. This policy is based in part on the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the State of Minnesota Data Privacy Act. Faculty must understand and follow the University of Minnesota's policies in regard to grades and other student records.
A student's educational record and student-related data are confidential. The student may view their own record. Access to other persons is restricted.
Federal Education and Privacy Act (FERPA)
FERPA essentially says that a student has access to most data in his or her University record, and that others are restricted from seeing that data except in defined situations. The best practice is to keep all student data private, including e-mail addresses, grades, coursework, and communications. Keep e-mail addresses secure when sending a message to multiple students by inserting them all into the BCC line. Return graded papers to students individually, or via the course Canvas website. You may discuss a student with your faculty director, APS staff, or academic adviser for specific educational purposes. For other situations, contact APS first for clarification. Learn more about how to comply with this regulation by reading the FERPA Fact Sheet or by viewing the FERPA tutorial.