Filing a Student Loan Complaint Under FERPA: Requirements & Process
- Author: Wilbert Raynor
- Posted: 2025-02-19
If you believe your student loan records or educational privacy rights have been mishandled, filing a complaint under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is an essential step.
The Student Privacy Policy Office (SPPO) oversees FERPA complaints and ensures compliance with federal privacy laws.
Who Can File a FERPA Complaint?
A parent or eligible student can file a complaint if they believe an educational institution has mishandled or improperly disclosed student records. However:
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Once a student turns 18 or enrolls in postsecondary education, the rights transfer from the parent to the student.
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Parents can still file on behalf of minor children who have not yet entered college.
Requirements for Filing a FERPA Complaint
To ensure proper review, FERPA complaints must meet these requirements:
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Must be in writing – Verbal complaints are not accepted.
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Detailed Explanation – Clearly outline how student privacy rights were violated (e.g., unauthorized disclosure or denial of access to records).
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Submission Deadline – Complaints must be filed within 180 days of the violation.
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If more time has passed, an explanation must justify the delay.
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Applicable Institutions – FERPA applies only to schools receiving U.S. Department of Education funding. Private institutions that do not receive federal aid are generally not covered.
How to File a Student Loan Complaint Under FERPA
Once the requirements are met, complaints can be submitted via email or mail:
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Email: FERPA.Complaints@ed.gov
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Mail: U.S. Department of Education, Student Privacy Policy Office, 400 Maryland Ave, SW, Washington, DC 20202-8520
What Happens After Filing?
The SPPO will review the complaint and determine if an investigation is necessary. If a violation is found:
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The educational institution will be notified and given an opportunity to respond.
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The investigation process may take time and involves a thorough review of records.
Why FERPA Matters
FERPA ensures that student privacy rights are protected, holding educational institutions accountable.
Understanding this process empowers students and parents to take action when their rights are violated, reinforcing transparency in education.
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