Whether you're just beginning your academic journey or have been enrolled at the University of the Fraser Valley for some time, it's important to understand how UFV collects, uses, and protects your personal information to ensure the efficient operation of the institution and provide you with various essential services.
Protection of privacy
As a public organization, UFV is required to protect your privacy by law, and comply with the provincial Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA Act). That means we take appropriate measures to secure data, limit access, and ensure that your information is handled with care and only used for its intended purposes.
How UFV uses your personal information
To effectively deliver our services, we may ask your express consent for specific purposes. Examples include:
Research participation: If you participate in research studies or surveys, we will request your express consent to use the data you provide for academic research purposes.
Communication preferences: We may seek your consent to contact you through email, phone, or other means to share important updates, events, or opportunities related to your academic journey.
In certain instances, we might use your information with your implied consent. For example, we collected your personal information when you applied to UFV and will use that information to manage your records throughout your time at UFV. Here are some examples of how that information may be used:
Academic support: Managing your student records, facilitating communication with professors, and providing support services for your academic success.
Financial aid: Processing financial aid applications, handling tuition payments, and ensuring you receive relevant financial information.
Library services: When you borrow books or access library resources, your implied consent allows us to manage your library account and maintain a record of borrowed materials.
In rare instances, the University of the Fraser Valley may be required to disclose personal information without asking for your consent. Such situations typically arise when there are legal obligations or concerns related to the safety and well-being of individuals. For example:
Legal mandates: The university may disclose personal information in response to a court order, subpoena, or other legal directives compelling the release of such information.
Emergency situations: In cases of emergencies where an individual's health or safety is at risk, the university may share relevant personal information with appropriate authorities or emergency services to ensure prompt and necessary assistance.
Public health concerns: During public health crises, the university may be obligated to disclose information to health authorities for contact tracing or to mitigate the spread of contagious diseases.
Access to information
Anyone has the right to seek access to university records, which may include your own personal information. At UFV, there are two primary avenues for accessing information: routine requests and formal Freedom of Information (FOI) requests.
If you would like to obtain your student records, first, get in touch with the relevant department or unit responsible for maintaining these records. Typically, these requests can be handled through informal channels.
Occasionally, if the department or unit is unable to address your request, they may seek guidance from the Access and Privacy Officer and/or advise you to submit a formal Freedom of Information request.
Learn how to make an access to information request
Consent for release of information
If you are a student, you can use this form when you are away for a period of time or need to grant access to a sponsoring agency.
Download the consent for release of information form
If you have concerns or questions about the collection, use, or protection of your personal information, we encourage you to reach out to the specific department or unit involved. They are equipped to address your questions and provide clarification.
In case your concerns remain unresolved, you can contact the Office of General Counsel, who will assist you in navigating any privacy-related issues.
