Name Changes in UW Records

Change your preferred name

The term "preferred name" refers to a name that a student wishes to use that differs from their legal name on legal documents or UW's records.  To support an inclusive and respectful learning environment, UW allows students to self-identify the name they would like to be called in classroom settings and when interacting with university personnel.  

Visit Identity.UW to indicate your preferred name.  More information about preferred names, including where preferred/legal names are used in the university setting, can be found here.

Students may also change their gender within the UW Student Database by visiting the Registrar's Office in Schmitz 225.  Students receiving financial aid should also consult with the Office of Student Financial Aid, especially if their gender has not already been changed on legal documents at the state level.

Change your legal name

For a student to change their legal name in UW's records, legal documentation or proof of usage of the new name is required.  A certified copy of a court order, marriage certificate, or dissolution decree reflecting the new name in full is the primary document required.

Review the Registrar's name change policy for more information regarding changes to your legal name in UW's records.

UW Directory Release

The UW faculty, staff, and student directory displays information such as name, UW email address, phone number, and major.  Under FERPA, students have the right to restrict their information from appearing in the directory.  For more information about your rights under FERPA and directory release information, click here.