Name Changes
During your time as a student or resident at GSDM, you may need to change how your name appears on various platforms, or you may undergo a legal name change, in which case you will need to update your name in University records. We’ve outlined some common scenarios on this page, but if you have additional questions, or if you have a name-change question not covered on this page, please contact Student Affairs at gsdmsa@bu.edu.
Editing your display name in Blackboard
You may edit your first name as it appears on Blackboard. Notify faculty if your chosen name (the one displayed on Blackboard) DOES NOT MATCH your legal name. Directions on how to change your chosen name (first name only) on Blackboard are available HERE.
Please note: Changing your name on Blackboard does not constitute a legal name change.
Editing your display name in the BU Directory or email display name
You are able to change your display name on the directory and email display name. This can be used to remove your middle name or change how your first and last names are displayed on BU systems regardless of your legal/official name. Directions on how to change your display name are available HERE.
Please note: Changing your name in the directory or your email does not constitute a legal name change.
Changing your name legally as an adult
Changing your legal name in University Records
At this time, BU’s student information system, transcript, diploma and degree verification reflect an individual’s legal name.
- Domestic students: If you have completed a legal name change in Massachusetts or another state, you must complete the Personal Data Update Form and send it, along with appropriate documentation (e.g. driver’s license, passport, marriage certificate, or legal name change form, to registrar@bu.edu.
- International students: Contact ISSO for assistance at 617-353-3565 or via email at isso@bu.edu.
Changing your BU email address
Because it is a unique identifier stored in many different locations at the University, changes to a BU login name/email address require considerable staff time and coordination, and cannot be easily changed. However, if you feel strongly that you need to change your BU login name/email, you can submit a ticket to the IT Help Center. Requests for changes due to special circumstances, such as a legal name change, will be accepted with no fee. Changes outside of this will incur a $50 fee for this service and it may take several weeks to be completed.
Changing your name on your Terrier Card (aka BU ID)
If you have completed a legal name change, you can get a new BU ID card at no charge. Go to the BUMC ID Office (650 Albany Street) with your old ID and mention that you had a name change when requesting the new ID.