Directory Information

Student record information is confidential and private. In accordance with both federal law (FERPA) and University policy (policy AD11), the University does not release student record information without prior written consent of the student. The one exception to this is that the University may release "directory information" items without prior student consent. Directory information is defined as that information which would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. Designated directory information at Penn State includes the following:

  1. Name
  2. Address (local, permanent residence and electronic mail)
  3. Telephone number
  4. Class level (semester class or level: first-year, sophomore, junior, senior, etc.)
  5. Major
  6. Student activities
  7. Weight/height (athletic teams)
  8. Dates of attendance
  9. Enrollment status (full-time, part-time, or not enrolled)
  10. Date of graduation
  11. Degrees and awards received and where received
  12. Most recent educational institution attended

To Withhold Directory Information

All students may request that directory information not be released publicly. This is an important student privilege that results in the following:

  • Student name/address is excluded from the Penn State Web Directory and printed telephone directories. Requests to withhold will not alter previously published directories.
  • Your name will not appear in the results of an Canvas search. You will need to self-enroll or contact the Penn State Service Desk at 865-HELP or canvas@psu.edu to join teams and to participate in courses not on your semester schedule.
  • Your name will not appear in the commencement program.
  • Verification of enrollment, graduation, or degrees awarded will not be provided to third parties, including potential employers.
  • No information will be released to any person (including the student) on the telephone or via email.

Requests to withhold directory information are in effect until removed, in writing, by the student.

Process for Students with Access to LionPATH

In order to withhold directory information, the student must:

  1. Complete and submit the Change Directory Info (FERPA) form in LionPATH.
  2. A clear and valid photo identification must be uploaded to your request.
  3. An email notification will be sent to your official Penn State email account when the withholding of directory information is in effect.

Process for Prior or Current Students without Access to LionPATH

In order to withhold directory information, the student must:

  1. Complete and submit the Request to Withhold Directory Information Form.
  2. Present or mail this signed form along with a copy of photo identification to any campus Registrar's office.
  3. If an email address is provided, the student will receive an official notification when the withholding of directory information is in effect.

To Remove the Action of Withholding Directory Information in LionPATH

Process for Students with Access to LionPATH

To reverse the action of withholding directory information, the student must:

  1. Complete and submit the Change Directory Info (FERPA) form in LionPATH.
  2. A clear and valid photo identification must be uploaded to your request.
  3. An email notification will be sent to your official Penn State email account when the withholding of directory information is in effect.

Process for Prior or Current Students without Access to LionPATH

To reverse the action of withholding directory information, the student must:

  1. To reverse the action of withholding directory information, the student must complete and sign the Request to Remove the Action of Withholding Directory Information Form.
  2. Present or mail this signed form along with a copy of photo identification to any campus Registrar's office.
  3. If an email address is provided, the student will receive an official notification when directory information will be released.