Gazette Name Change for Students

Changing a name is an important decision for anyone, but for students in India, it is especially sensitive. A student’s name appears on school records, college marksheets, board certificates, and future academic documents. If the name is incorrect or needs to be changed due to personal or family reasons, the Gazette of India notification is the most reliable and legally accepted proof.

This blog explains the complete process of Gazette name change for students: why it is important, the documents required, the step-by-step procedure, common reasons, and FAQs.

Why the Gazette Name Change Is Important for Students

For students, every academic record, from admission register to final degree, is linked with their name. If there is a spelling mistake, mismatch, or legal change in name, it must be corrected through a Gazette notification.

Key benefits of Gazette notification for students:

Legal recognition of the new name.
Mandatory for correction in school/college certificates.
Required for board exam records (CBSE, ICSE, State Boards).
Useful for passport, Aadhaar, PAN, and competitive exam applications.
Helps avoid mismatches in employment or higher education.

👉 Example: If a student named Rohit Kumar wants to drop his surname to Rohit, or if Priya Sharma wants her spelling corrected to Prya Sharma, Gazette notification is essential.

Common Reasons for Gazette Name Change for Students

Spelling mistakes in school records.
Name change after adoption.
Change of surname after parents’ divorce or remarriage.
Numerology- or astrology-based name change.
Correction of mismatch between Aadhaar card and school certificates.
Simplifying names for competitive exams or higher studies.

Who Can Apply for a Student’s Gazette Name Change?

For minor students (below 18 years): A parent or legal guardian must apply on their behalf.
For students above 18 years: They can apply on their own.

Step-by-Step Process of Gazette Name Change for Students

Step 1: Prepare an Affidavit

Draft an affidavit on non-judicial stamp paper.
Include old name, new name, reason for change, date of birth, and parents’ names.
Get it notarized by a notary or magistrate.

Step 2: Publish Newspaper Advertisement

Publish in two newspapers (one local language, one English).
Example text: I, [old name], son/daughter of [parent’s name], studying in [school/college], have changed my name from [old name] to [new name] with effect from [date].
Keep copies of the advertisements.

Step 3: Apply for Gazette Notification

Collect documents:
- Affidavit of name change
- Newspaper ads
- School ID or bona fide certificate
- Aadhaar card copy
- Passport-size photos
- Parent’s ID proof (if minor)
Submit the application to the Department of Publication, New Delhi, or the respective State Gazette office.

Step 4: Gazette Publication

Once verified, the new name will be published in the Official Gazette of India.
Download or collect the Gazette copy.

Step 5: Update Student Records

Submit a Gazette copy to:
- School/college administration
- Education board (CBSE, ICSE, State Board)
- University authorities
Request correction in marksheets, ID cards, and certificates.

Documents Required for Gazette Name Change (Students)

Affidavit of name change
Newspaper advertisements (two copies)
Student ID card / Bonafide certificate
Aadhaar card copy
Parent’s Aadhaar card (for minors)
Passport-size photographs
Gazette application form with signature

Time of Gazette Name Change

Processing time: 30–60 days

Example Scenarios

A Class 10 student finds her name misspelt in her Aadhaar. Gazette notification helps her correct the records before board exams.
A college student drops her surname after her parents’ separation. Gazette ensures an updated name on her degree certificate.

FAQs on Gazette Name Change for Students

Q1. Is Gazette name change mandatory for students?

Yes, if you want to update your school/college or board certificates legally.

Q2. Can parents apply for minor students?

Yes. Parents or guardians must apply for students below 18 years.

Q3. Will CBSE/ICSE/state boards accept gazette notification?

Yes, education boards require Gazette proof for name changes.

Q4. How long does the process take?

Usually 1–2 months, depending on Gazette publication.

Q5. Can I change both first name and surname together?

Yes. Both can be changed in one application.

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Summary – Gazette Name Change for Students

For students in India, name change through Gazette notification is the safest and most recognised process. Whether due to spelling errors, adoption, or personal reasons, Gazette publication ensures that school records, board certificates, and IDs reflect the correct name.

Quick Recap of the Process:

Prepare affidavit.
Publish a newspaper advertisement.
Apply for Gazette notification.
Receive a Gazette copy.
Update records in school, college, or the education board.

👉 Gazette name change gives students a smooth academic journey and avoids mismatches in future admissions, exams, or employment.