Student Handbook 2025-26

submission of legal evidence indicating the name change. All requests must be verified with Registrar as the approving office, and then Information Technology (IT) will update their systems.

For the purpose of F-1 student visa status, the legal name must be used on I-20s. An individual’s legal name is what appears on the passport.

Preferred Name Policy

A preferred name will appear in select institutional systems, records, or documents in which a legal name is not required. To assure accurate identification, the legal last name will appear along with the chosen first name whenever possible. Beacon College reserves the right to remove or deny the preferred first name if used inappropriately. This includes, but is not limited to: names using foul or inappropriate language, names submitted to avoid a legal obligation, fraud, and names used to create misrepresentation. A preferred name that includes numbers or symbols will not be recognized. Each individual may request one preferred first name change during each twelve-month period. An individual may request to revert back to their legal name at any time. The request to change a legal name to a preferred name must be made in writing and submitted to the Office of the Registrar. Under FERPA, a student’s legal or preferred name may be disclosed as directory information (unless a request to withhold is on file to prevent disclosure, see FERPA Policy). The preferred name will be used as first preference. Procedures for preferred and legal names may vary. Individuals interested in updating personal records should contact the appropriate office directly related to their status of enrollment or employment.

Student Handbook AY 2025-2026 | Version 082025

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