Transcripts
When a School Closes
A closing school must designate a custodian of records - a person or entity students can contact to obtain copies of their transcripts. Some of these schools may also provide copies directly to the Bureau, but this is not guaranteed.
Does the Bureau Have My Transcripts?
Please review the list of schools for which the Bureau currently holds student records.
If your school is not on the Bureau's list of schools for which the Bureau holds records, you may still submit the Transcript Request Form. The Bureau will use the information you provide to determine whether records exist or whether the custodian of records can be identified.
State law requires Bureau approved schools to maintain transcripts for specific periods:
Prior to 2010:
- non-degree granting schools were required to maintain transcripts for five years,
- degree-granting schools were required to maintain transcripts for fifty years.
On or after January 1, 2010:
- schools are mandated to permanently maintain transcripts (CEC section 94900).
Please note: many older schools closed before 2010 or did not retain records for the required period, so the Bureau may not possess all transcripts.
Requesting a Transcript from the Bureau
If the Bureau has your transcripts, you may request a copy by submitting a Transcript Request Form.
- There is no fee for obtaining transcripts held by the Bureau.
- The Bureau does not certify transcripts received from the school.
- The Bureau will respond to your request between 7-10 days.
Additional Help for Students
For assistance following the closure of a Bureau-approved school, students may also contact the Office of Student Assistance and Relief (OSAR).
For additional information on recently closed schools, please visit the BPPE Student Guide: www.bppe.ca.gov/students/guide.shtml.