Oregon State University believes it is important that while attending the university, students are able to be referred to by the first name they choose to use, or their name-in-use, even if that chosen name is not the student’s legal name. It is the university’s policy to allow students to change their first name-in-use as they desire or need.

In keeping with the university’s commitment to help foster an inclusive community, Oregon State University reserves the right to revoke a requested name-in-use for the following reasons:

  • If a name is perceived to be derogatory, inflammatory, or slanderous.
  • If a name demeans an individual or community on the basis of race, class, gender, ethnicity, sexuality, national origin, religion, or other protected characteristics.
  • If a name references illegal activity.
  • If a name endorses commercial interests.

Oregon State University maintains the right to revoke a name-in-use request for reasons other than those listed if the name presents complications or issues not listed above. For more information—or for questions—regarding Oregon State’s name-in-use policy and procedures, please contact the Office of the Registrar by calling 541-737-4331 or visit http://registrar.oregonstate.edu/biographical-information-change-requests