Student Records and Release of Information
Stratford University maintains student records during and after a student’s enrollment and abides by all components of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (Public Law 93-380 which is Section 438 of the General Education Provision Act). A transcript is kept indicating student accomplishments in terms of credits. Transcripts are kept in digital format indefinitely. Students interested in receiving transcripts should refer to the Requesting Transcripts section of this catalog. Student records are kept for a minimum of five years.
All records are maintained in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974. The University withholds all non-directory information from third parties unless the student requests, in writing, for the information to be released. The University defines directory information as name, address (local, permanent, and electronic mail), telephone numbers, date and place of birth, program(s) undertaken, credit completed, dates of attendance, enrollment status (full-time, part-time, not enrolled), date of graduation, degrees and awards received, grade recognitions, and student activities. The University has adopted policies and procedures which permits students the opportunity to view their educational records upon request. Educational records are files, documents, and other material containing information directly related to a student. Educational records do not include working papers concerning students, such as informal notes and other temporary notes of a similar nature in the sole possession of the faculty or staff and are not accessible or revealed to any other person.
The University does not permit access to or release of confidential information to any individual or agency without the written consent of the student, except for the following reasons:
- Records required by Stratford University officials in the proper performance of their duties
- Organizations conducting studies for educational and governmental agencies
- U.S. government agencies as listed in Public Law 93380
- Accrediting agencies
- Parents of dependent children as defined in the Internal Revenue Code of 1954
- Appropriate persons in connection with an emergency listed as emergency contacts
- Other educational institutions upon request of transcripts for students seeking enrollment in that institution
- In connection with the award of federal student aid
- In response to legal court orders
By agreeing to enroll at Stratford University, students agree to give the University permission to use the student’s name, photographic likeness, or written/spoken words in any format, for any lawful purpose.