Supporting Student Independence
Family Resources & FERPA Guide
We partner with parents and family members to foster student independence, well-being, and academic success from move-in day to commencement.
Parent & Family Toolset
Essential Portals & Services
Quick access to the resources family members reference throughout the academic year.
Payments
TouchNet Authorized User Login
View student bills, make tuition payments, set up interest-free monthly installments, and view 1098-T tax statements.
TouchNet Portal
Schedules
Academic Calendar & Breaks
Track semester start dates, add/drop deadlines, residence hall move-in, Thanksgiving recess, and final exam windows.
View Calendar
Care & Safety
Student Health & Counseling
Confidential medical clinic care, individual mental health counseling, crisis intervention, and immunization records.
Health Services
Understanding FERPA: Student Privacy Rights
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal law protecting the privacy of student educational records. Once a student reaches age 18 or attends a postsecondary institution, privacy rights transfer from parents to the student.nnWithout a signed FERPA waiver, university officials cannot disclose grades, GPA, class attendance, or disciplinary records to anyone — including parents paying tuition. We encourage open, proactive dialogue between students and families.
- Students can authorize parent access by completing a FERPA Waiver in MyUB
- FERPA waivers can designate specific categories (academic, billing, or conduct)
- Emergency health or safety threats are exempt from non-disclosure rules
- Students may revoke or modify FERPA authorizations at any time
TouchNet Billing, Authorized Users & Payment Plans
How Does a Student Grant Parent Access to TouchNet?
Due to federal privacy laws, parents cannot automatically view student tuition bills. The student must log in to MyUB > TouchNet > ‘Authorized Users’ and enter the parent’s email. The parent receives an automated activation email with dedicated login credentials.
Interest-Free Monthly Payment Plans
UB offers 5-month and 4-month interest-free semester payment plans through TouchNet. A nominal enrollment fee ($45) allows families to spread tuition, fees, and room & board into manageable monthly payments.
Health Insurance Waiver Deadline
All full-time undergraduate students are automatically billed for the university health insurance plan. If your student is covered under your family policy, you must submit an online waiver with insurance verification by the deadline to waive the charge.
Comprehensive Student Health, Wellness & Safety Support
University of Bridgeport provides integrated physical health and psychological counseling services. If you ever have urgent concerns regarding your student’s physical or emotional well-being, our 24/7 Campus Safety dispatch and Student Affairs crisis response teams are prepared to conduct immediate welfare checks.
Can I speak directly with my student's professors about their grades?
Under FERPA, faculty members cannot discuss student grades or academic standing with parents without a documented release. We encourage students to attend faculty office hours directly.
What should I do if I am worried about my student's mental health or well-being?
Contact the Dean of Students Office or Student Counseling Services immediately. Our behavioral intervention team conducts wellness checks and provides compassionate wrap-around support.
How can I send mail or care packages to my residential student?
Mail should be addressed to: Student Full Name, Residence Hall Name & Room Number, 126 Park Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06604. Packages are safely received at the campus post office.
Dean of Students Office
Our team serves as the primary campus advocate and support resource for parents and families.