What is FERPA?
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99) is a Federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. The release of student records,
including billing and payment information, at Colorado State University is bound by federal law (FERPA). FERPA restricts the type of information the university can share with individuals
(including parents) and entities outside of Colorado State University unless specifically authorized, in writing, by the student.
A FERPA Release Form must be on file with the Accounts Receivable Operations (ARO) office before student account information can be released to anyone other than the student.
How do I sign a FERPA Release Form?
FERPA Release Forms, specific to billing and payment information, are available in RAMweb in the Student Resources section of the Billing Information page, or upon request from the ARO office,
the CSU Cashier’s Office or the Office of Financial Aid. These forms will only be provided to the student and must be completed by the student. When returning the form, a
photo ID must be provided. If the form is not being returned in person, a copy of the student’s photo ID must be included (via email/fax).
What if I have already signed a FERPA Release Form with another university office?
If you have already signed a FERPA Release Form with another office, you will still need to fill out a form with ARO specifying that you authorize us to speak with someone other than you
regarding your billing and account information. ARO does not have access to records that are located within other departments at the university. Students seeking to release other
student information should contact the department involved to determine the department’s requirements for the release of information.
What if I have granted billing access through FAMweb?
Providing FAMweb access to an authorized user is not a substitute for having a FERPA Release Form on file, and does not give ARO permission to speak with the authorized user regarding a
student account. Even if the student has set up an authorized user to view billing information in FAMweb, ARO will still need a release form on file to discuss specific account information.
Where can I find more information?
The Colorado State University General Catalog, under University Policies.
CSU’s FERPA Policy
Office of the Registrar