FERPA Protections for Undocumented Students
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects the privacy of all student education records, including those of undocumented students. This means that your immigration status cannot be disclosed without your consent. Colleges are legally required to keep your personal information confidential and cannot share it with federal immigration agencies.
Merritt College is committed to supporting our undocumented students. We will not share any personally identifiable student information, including immigration status, unless legally required to do so by a judicial warrant, subpoena, or court order, or authorized by the student.
How Merritt College Protects Student Data
Merritt College is committed to safeguarding student information. The college:
- Does not collect or share immigration status unless required by law.
- Restricts access to student records to authorized personnel only.
- Ensures that financial aid and admissions processes do not require a Social Security Number for undocumented students.
Safe Spaces & Confidentiality Policies
Merritt College provides a welcoming and secure environment for all students, regardless of immigration status.
- The Undocumented Community Resource Center (UCRC) serves as a confidential space where students can seek support without fear of exposure.
- Conversations about immigration status with UCRC staff remain private and are not recorded in academic records.
How the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) Protects Student Data
The California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) is committed to protecting student privacy and ensuring that financial aid information remains confidential. For undocumented students applying for state financial aid through the California Dream Act Application (CADAA), CSAC implements strict security measures, including:
- Confidentiality of Immigration Status: CSAC does not share CADAA information with federal immigration agencies, and student data is used solely for determining state financial aid eligibility.
- Protection Under State Law: California law prohibits colleges and state agencies from using student data to discriminate or disclose personal information without consent.
- Students can apply for state financial aid with confidence, knowing that their personal information is safeguarded. If you have concerns about your data privacy, students can contact CSAC directly or read more information here.
For any concerns regarding your privacy rights, contact the Undocumented Community Resource Center for guidance and support.
FERPA rights for undocumented students