FERPA form on the Common App?

Can someone explain what the FERPA form is on the Common App? I came across it while working on my application, and I'm not sure what it's for. Any help would be appreciated!

The FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) form on the Common App is a crucial part of your application process. FERPA is a federal law that protects the privacy of your educational records, which include your transcripts, letters of recommendation, and other academic records.

It grants students (and their parents or guardians, if the student is under 18) the right to review their educational records, request corrections, and control who has access to the information.

On the Common App, you'll need to complete the FERPA Release Authorization section, which allows your high school to share your academic records with the colleges you are applying to. Additionally, it gives your recommenders permission to submit their letters of recommendation on your behalf.

The FERPA waiver requests that you waive your right to review your recommendations. Colleges typically prefer when students waive this right, as it ensures that the recommendations are confidential and unbiased.

Here's a brief overview of how to complete the FERPA form on the Common App:

1. Access the "Recommenders and FERPA" section within each college on your "My Colleges" tab.

2. Read the FERPA information carefully, and follow the steps to either waive or retain your right to review recommendation letters.

3. If you choose to waive your rights, you'll be prompted to sign electronically.

4. Confirm your choice and submit the form.

Make sure to complete the FERPA form before requesting any recommendations or sending application materials to colleges. Keep in mind that once you submit the FERPA form on the Common App, you cannot change your decision, so think it through before making a final choice. Good luck with your application process!