Which aspect is NOT protected by FERPA?

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) aims to protect the privacy of student education records. Under FERPA, once a student turns 18 or attends a postsecondary institution, they become the primary owner of their educational records, which means that access to these records requires the student's consent.

The option that highlights access to an 18-year-old child's records without permission from the student is correct because it directly contradicts FERPA's stipulation that students, once they reach a certain age, control the access to their own records. This illustrates that parents or guardians cannot unilaterally access their child's records simply because the child is still a minor under their care; the rights shift to the student once they turn 18.

In contrast, the other aspects listed are covered under FERPA. Control over who can access information is a fundamental right granted to students. Access to records for parents who claim their child as a dependent does permit some level of access without student consent, provided certain conditions are met. Additionally, students have the right to request amendments to their records if they believe there is inaccurate or misleading information, which is also a protection under FERPA. These rights and limitations emphasize the act’s commitment to student privacy and autonomy.