Access to Your GPA After Graduation: Understanding Who Can See It

Once you graduate from college, your GPA may be accessed by several parties under certain conditions. This article explains the circumstances and individuals who have the right to view your GPA and the legal and practical implications of sharing this information.

Who Can Access Your GPA?

There are several scenarios in which your GPA can be accessed after graduation:

You: You always have the right to access your own academic records, including your GPA. Educational Institutions: Other colleges or universities may request your GPA as part of an application process, especially for further education. Employers: Some employers may request your GPA during the hiring process, particularly for positions that require a certain educational background. However, they typically need your permission to access this information. Government Agencies: Certain government agencies may access your academic records for specific purposes, such as federal student loan programs or background checks. Professional Licensing Boards: If you are pursuing a career that requires licensure, boards may request your GPA as part of their evaluation process.

Privacy Laws and Your GPA

The access to your GPA is generally governed by privacy laws such as the Federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) in the United States. FERPA protects your educational records and requires your consent for the disclosure of this information in most cases.

While the registrar's office may be able to verify your attendance, degree completion, and major, they typically cannot verify your GPA unless you provide an official transcript. This is an important point, especially during resume verification.

Practical Implications and Resume Verification

In practical terms, the only people who will ever see your GPA are in the registrar’s office unless you ask for a transcript to be sent. However, the issue arises when someone tries to verify a piece of information about your academic record. A common scenario is as follows:

For example, Jane from Big Incorporated contacts the registrar to verify Dakota Carolina's application information:

Jane: Hi, I'm Jane Smith from Big Incorporated. Dakota Carolina has applied for a job. Can I verify some information?

Registrar: Sure, happy to help.

Jane: The application form says that Dakota attended from 2004-2008.

Registrar: I can verify that.

Jane: It says that Dakota graduated in 2008 with a degree in Basketweaving, Underwater.

Registrar: I can verify that.

Jane: It says that Dakota graduated with a 3.5 GPA in the major and a 3.2 overall.

Registrar: I cannot verify that information.

Jane: Thanks!

This scenario highlights that the registrar's office cannot confirm a GPA without an official transcript. If someone cannot verify your GPA, you will be asked to provide an official transcript. This process can prevent further issues, such as summarily removing someone from their job for lying on their resume, even years after employment.

Some employers will not care about your GPA, whereas others will. Honesty is key in most cases, particularly if the employer values transparency and integrity in their candidates.

Conclusion

The access to your GPA is a complex issue that involves privacy laws and practical implications. It's important to understand who can access your GPA and the steps required to verify this information. Being honest and transparent can help you avoid future complications and maintain your professional reputation.