McMaster University regularly receives requests from third parties conducting background checks for records in respect of its students or alumni. As an institution subject to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, RSO 1990, McMaster takes seriously its responsibilities regarding the disclosure of personal information in response to such requests, which is mandated through the Background Check Policy.

All requests for background checks must include the written consent of the student or alumni. The privacy office may provide information regarding the Academic Integrity Policy, Research Integrity Policy, and Code of Student Rights and Responsibilities.

In cases where consent is not provided, McMaster University will neither confirm nor deny the existence of any records relating to the individual subject of the background check.

Requests for background information should be submitted via email to privacy@mcmaster.ca.

Requests for Education Verification or Transcripts

Requests for education verification or student transcripts are outside the scope of a background check and student or alumnus are directed to the Office of the Registrar for Enrolment verification and Transcripts.

Student transcripts may contain notations for sanctions under the Academic Integrity Policy, Research Integrity Policy, or Code of Student Rights and Responsibilities. The removal of these notations is governed by the Transcript Notation – Removal Process.

Third parties requesting degree verification outside the scope of this background check policy are required to follow the instructions outlined on the Registrar’s website at Degree verification – Office of the Registrar | McMaster University

McMaster may, at its sole discretion and without advising a third party requester, contact the party to whom the personal information relates to, to confirm the scope of any individual consent.