The University of Alabama (UA) respects the privacy of its students engaged in online learning programs and courses. This statement complies with the rules and regulations outlined in the UA’s Privacy Policy and other related university policies and regulations.

Every prospective student who applies to UA is provided with a secure BAMA ID and password required to access UA’s myBama student portal. Through the portal, students access information that includes, but is not limited to, schedules, financial aid awards, grades, tuition costs, and BlackBoard Learn, the learning management system which houses course content. Also, students use their User ID and password to access proctored exams when applicable. UA verifies that the student who registers for an online course or program is the same student who participates in and completes the course or program and receives academic credit. One or more of the following methods are used to verify student identity:

  • An individual secure login and password provided by UA;
  • Proctored exams;
  • Other emerging technologies and practices shown to be effective in verifying student identification and approved by UA;
  • Pedagogical and related practices that are effective in verifying student identity (e.g., video-based assignments).

Only students, instructors, and other support staff can access online courses and live or recorded webcasts. All methods of verifying student identity protect the privacy of student information (See Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA). Personally identifiable information (PII) collected by UA can be used as a base for identity verification (e.g., a student who requests that their password be reset may be asked to provide PII). Students will be notified in writing at the time of registration or enrollment of any fees associated with verifying student identity.

UA periodically evaluates its process to confirm that a student who is enrolled in an online program, taking an examination, or registered for an online course, is the person who completed the enrollment form. UA Online uses third-party vendors to provide identity verification software services (e.g., proctoring services).

Additionally, UA may charge a proctoring fee to students enrolled in online programs or courses. However, any proctoring fees will be disclosed on the course schedule before students register for a course. UA does not charge a proctoring fee to online students who take exams on campus. The Office of Teaching Innovation and Digital Education (OTIDE) maintains information for student proctoring charges. (See UA Online Proctored Exam Scheduling)

Personally Identifiable Information: any data that could potentially be used to identify a particular person or distinguish one individual from another (e.g., social security number, CWID, email address, bank account or tax information, etc.)

Contact Us

For more information about the Division of Online Learning’s Privacy Policy, contact us at (205) 348-0089 or (800) 467-0227 or online@ua.edu.