How do I add a preferred first name on my student record?
We understand that the change of your preferred first name is part of the social transition journey as a transgender or non-binary student. Where possible, we will use your preferred first name on University systems that support this function. In some situations, such as official records, degree certificates, visa documentation, or other legal and regulatory processes, your legal name may still need to be used.
Please note that some of these changes require manual processing and are available only through the Student Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Team. This includes:
- on your student ID card
- how your name is displayed on the University email system
- on Canvas
- on campus accommodations systems
- on UB Sport membership
- on Guild of Students membership
- during your graduation ceremony
This service is only available to support students with EDI-related circumstances, for example, transgender and non-binary students, as part of their social transition journey.
Please also note that the University does not normally use middle names in day-to-day operations, and last names are not generally regarded as gender-specific identifiers. As a result, the University's preferred name arrangements for trans inclusion only apply to first names.
Moreover, we recognise that changing your name can be a very personal decision and that individual circumstances vary. There may be questions about how and when to communicate a name change to others on campus, as well as considerations relating to official events such as graduation ceremonies.
For this reason, we strongly encourage students who are considering or using a preferred first name as part of their transition to arrange a conversation with the Student EDI team. This provides an opportunity to discuss your individual circumstances, make an informed decision, and understand the scope of the inclusive arrangements and support available to you during your studies.
For further information, please contact the Student EDI Team at studentequality@contacts.bham.ac.uk.