The University of California published the Gender Recognition and Lived Name Policy and implementation guidance on November 6, 2020 to ensure all individuals will have university-issued identification documents and displays of personal identification information that recognizes their accurate gender identity and lived name.
What is a lived name?
The designation of a lived name may be of interest to a myriad of UCI community members. Students may choose a lived name other than what is on official documents. In addition to legal name, UCI Division of Continuing Education (UCI DCE) allows a student to submit a lived name which will appear in place of the student’s legal name in selected University records, documents, and systems. Electing to use a lived name will not change the student’s legal name and only updates your record with UCI DCE. If you are a current or former UCI student or attended UCI Summer Session, please visit the UCI Registrar’s Office for more information.
Here are some examples of where your lived name will appear.
- Academic Records
- Transcripts*
- Certificates*
- Digital Badges*
- Class rosters
- Canvas
- DCE My Account profile
- Campus Directory
- UCI DCE identification card
* Students may choose their lived or legal name to appear on transcripts, certificates, and digital badges.
Generally, documents that the University provides to the federal government or in conjunction with a person’s Social Security Number require the use of a legal name. This may include, but is not limited to the following:
- Financial aid, including student loans documents
- Federal immigration documents (e.g., Form I-20)
- Tax forms (e.g., 1098-T, W-2)
- Payroll records
- Medical identification and records, including health insurance
Setting a Lived Name or Changing Your Legal Name
To update your name with UCI Division of Continuing Education, please log on to your DCE My Account and complete the Name Change Request Form to request a lived or legal name change. You may also select a preferred first name or nickname which will appear on general communications only. Upon submission, your request will be reviewed within 3-5 business days. You will be notified by email with the status of your request.
Eligible Lived and Preferred Names
There are limits to what may be used as a preferred name. Character limits and restrictions are outlined in the DCE My Account portal. Other restrictions are set by DCE Student Affairs & Student Services. Example of lived and preferred names that will not be approved:
- Names containing foul or inappropriate language as deemed by DCE Student Affairs & Student Services
- Names use for the purpose of misrepresentation
Changing your Gender Identity
To submit a change of gender identity, please log on to your DCE My Account.
For more information about UCI Gender Inclusive Campus and implementation of the policy, please visit UCI Office of Inclusive Excellence.