Frequently Asked Questions

• How can I get a copy of my student's grades?
  1. Your student can give that information directly (e.g. print or email you a copy of their records).
  2. Your student can set you up as an "authorized user" in their self-service account. See how.
• I'm paying for my child's education, why can't I get a copy of their records?

  According to FERPA, a student's records do not belong to the person paying for the student's education - they belong to the student. Information is only shared with the student's consent, in a health or safety emergency or pursuant to another FERPA exception. Your child may grant you permission to access their records in many ways. Please see our Disclosure Policies for details.

• My student granted me access to self-service. Can you email a copy of their transcript?

  We never release confidential information over the phone or by email. See our Request a Transcript page for ways to obtain one.

• My student granted me access to self-service, what do I have permission to see?

  R'Web "Authorization & Privacy" settings allow your student to authorize you to view student record information and discuss account information with Student Business Services, Financial Aid and Housing. However, if you want permission to view billing information and online payments, your student must authorize you in their Student Account Online. Use the links above on this page to access Self-Service and the Student Account Online.

  Authorization does not extend to other campus offices nor automatically grant you permission to discuss your child's student record with the university.
  Your student may also fill out a department-specific authorization forms if your self-service access isn't getting you the information you need.

• Can't I just fill out one form and have access to everything?

  UCR does not have a blanket release form covering the release of all student information to you. Release forms are generally very specific and students may be required to fill out department-specific authorization forms each time they request information be shared with you.

• Does my self-service authorization or FERPA allow me access to my student's medical and counseling records?

  Not necessarily, unless it is an emergency. However, your student may be able to grant you access via specific release forms. Questions about medical records should be directed to the Student Health Services and questions about counseling records should be directed to the Counseling Center.

• Will I be contacted if my student is sick or hurt? What if my child is in academic trouble or facing disciplinary action?

  In most cases, the university will not contact you without your child's permission. In the case of an extreme emergency, where the health of your student is in serious jeopardy, or if there is a concern they pose a threat to themselves or others, the university may contact you. As a general guideline, if your child is able to communicate about the situation, it is up to them to decide if you are contacted.

• Isn't there a FERPA provision that schools can contact parents if a student violates alcohol or drug policies?

  FERPA regulations allow, but do not require, higher education institutions to provide notice to family when a student violates federal, state or local laws related to alcohol and/or drugs. UCR does not automatically disclose a student's alcohol and/or drug violations to family. This information may only be shared with the student's consent, in a health or safety emergency or pursuant to another FERPA exception. Please contact the Dean of Students if you have any questions about your student's disciplinary records.

• Where can I find out more about FERPA?

  See the "FERPA Resources" box on this page for links to helpful websites and complete policies. We especially recommend UC FERPA 101.