Navigating the credential evaluation process can already be complex, and when your current name is different from the one on your academic documents, it can introduce an additional layer of concern. Whether your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, gender transition, personal choice, religious reasons, or administrative corrections, it is entirely possible to apply for an educational credential evaluation without issues—as long as you follow the correct documentation and verification steps.
This comprehensive blog outlines what to do if your name has changed since completing your academic studies, how to handle the application under such circumstances, and what supporting documents are generally required.
Why Name Consistency Matters in Credential Evaluation
Credential evaluation bodies are responsible for assessing and verifying the authenticity and equivalency of academic documents. One of the primary identifiers on these documents is the name. If your name on your degree, transcript, or certificate doesn’t match your current legal name, evaluators must ensure that:
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The documents truly belong to you
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There is no misrepresentation or identity confusion
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The name change is verifiable through documentation
A discrepancy in names without proper explanation or supporting records can lead to processing delays, additional queries, or even rejection of the application.
What Name Should You Apply Under?
When completing your credential evaluation application, always apply under your current legal name—the one that appears on your government-issued identification such as a passport, national ID card, or immigration paperwork.
This ensures consistency with:
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Your immigration or licensing applications
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Identification checks
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Any future correspondence with official bodies
However, since your educational records contain your former name, you will need to establish the link between the two identities using official documentation.
Common Reasons for Name Change
Understanding and clearly stating the reason for your name change helps contextualize your supporting documents. Common scenarios include:
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Marriage: Adoption of a spouse’s surname
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Divorce: Reversion to maiden or prior name
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Gender transition: Legal name change as part of gender affirmation
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Religious or cultural reasons: Voluntary change for alignment with beliefs
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Spelling corrections: Clerical corrections in spelling, initials, or order
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Legal name change: Change done through court orders or gazette notifications
Each of these reasons is valid and generally accepted as long as proper supporting documents are submitted.
What Documents Should You Submit?
To bridge the gap between your current legal name and the one appearing on your academic credentials, most credential evaluation services will require documentary proof of your name change. Here are the commonly accepted documents:
1. Marriage Certificate
Used if your name changed after marriage. It must clearly show both your old and new names, and be officially issued by the relevant authority.
2. Divorce Decree
Used if your name reverted after a divorce. The decree should include the statement authorizing the name change.
3. Legal Name Change Certificate or Affidavit
If you underwent a name change through a legal process or court, submit the certified copy of the name change order or government-issued certificate.
4. Government Gazette Notification
Some countries publish official name changes in their government gazette. A scanned copy of this notice can be used to confirm the change.
5. Sworn Affidavit
In certain cases—especially where formal records are not available—an affidavit sworn before a notary public or commissioner of oaths may be accepted.
6. Passport or Government-Issued ID Showing Current Name
This is essential as it validates the legal identity under which you’re applying. It also serves to link your current name to the name change process.
How to Submit Name Change Documents
Each credential evaluation body may have slightly different submission methods, but here’s a general process:
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Include a copy of your name change document(s) with your application
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Ensure your application is under your current name
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If possible, provide a brief cover letter explaining the name difference
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Clearly reference the name on your academic documents versus the name on your ID
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Ensure that all personal details (birthdate, academic institution, program, year) match exactly on both sets of documents
Some evaluators also allow you to upload or attach your documents during the application process or send them via email or secure portals. Be sure to follow the instructions provided by the evaluation authority.
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