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A student may wish to use a name other than their legal name while attending SMU. If this is the case, you may choose to add a preferred name — first, middle and/or last — to your file in addition to your primary or legal name.

In some cases, a student may have a legal name change, requiring supporting documentation to update University records. 

What you'll find here: answers to common questions about how to change your preferred name on file, how a preferred name impacts your records, and legal name changes.

How do I change my preferred name on file?

In , you can add a preferred name to your file. No documentation is required. You may also want to notify some offices directly, as there are many offices that keep records and many data systems used for specific applications.

What should I know about using a preferred name?

If you choose to use a preferred name, you should use it consistently and avoid changing it frequently.

Be advised that using a preferred last name may cause confusion for employers and organizations trying to match official educational records with applications. Therefore, it’s recommended that students provide both their preferred and legal names on applications. 

I added a preferred name. Why isn’t it used everywhere?

While the University makes every effort to use your preferred name in official communications, there are situations in which your primary/legal name will be used due to business practices, legal requirements or system limitations.

Here is a partial list of standard name usage:

I legally changed my name. How do I update my records?

To update your name at SMU, you must provide the University Registrar’s Office with your Social Security card, valid passport, or an official court order showing the name change. Enrollment or records services under a different name from your last enrollment cannot be processed without one of these documents.

All transcripts and diplomas are issued only under your legal name recorded by the University Registrar’s Office.