Applying for credential evaluation is a critical step when planning to study, work, or immigrate abroad. During the online application process, you’re required to fill in various personal details—one of the most important being your full name. However, many applicants encounter a roadblock when the system asks for both a “first name” and “last name,” and they do not traditionally use or have a last name in their country of origin. If you’re wondering how to correctly complete your application when you do not have a last name (or family name/surname), this comprehensive blog will guide you through the process, with clarity and confidence.
Why Name Format Matters in Credential Evaluation
Most online application systems for international credential evaluations are designed to align with Western naming conventions, which typically separate names into first name (given name) and last name (family name or surname). These fields are usually mandatory and may not allow submission unless both are filled.
This causes confusion for applicants whose official documents display only one name or follow naming customs that differ significantly. It’s not just a formatting issue—how you enter your name impacts the evaluation report, the consistency with your official documents, and how future institutions interpret your identity.
Understanding the Importance of Consistency
Before you proceed to fill in any application, the most important rule is consistency:
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Your name must match your official documents—typically your passport, degree certificate, or government-issued ID.
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If your academic records show only one name, or if your passport uses “FNU” (First Name Unknown), your application must reflect that format.
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Incorrectly entering your name can lead to delays, mismatched documentation, or even rejection of your evaluation report by immigration offices or academic institutions.
What To Do If You Have Only One Name
If you do not have a last name and your official documents display just a single name, there are recommended ways to complete the application form depending on the platform’s constraints:
Option 1: Repeat the Name in Both Fields
If allowed, one of the most common and accepted practices is to enter your single name in both the first and last name fields.
Example:
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First Name: RAJESH
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Last Name: RAJESH
This ensures consistency across digital systems and document records. It’s especially useful in databases that require both fields to be filled for technical reasons.
Option 2: Use “FNU” or “LNU” (if instructed)
Some official systems instruct individuals with no first or last name to use a placeholder like:
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FNU (First Name Unknown)
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LNU (Last Name Unknown)
So if your official documents list only one name, and that name is your given name, you may enter:
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First Name: RAJESH
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Last Name: FNU
Or vice versa, depending on how your name is printed in your passport or degree.
Important: Only use FNU or LNU if your passport or academic documents use them. If they don’t, this might lead to confusion in future visa or application processes.
Review Your Passport Format
Many international agencies base their name formatting rules on the name as it appears in your Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) at the bottom of your passport. If the MRZ uses a specific placeholder or breaks down your name into certain components, try to follow that exact layout in your online application.
Some systems use the “Surname” and “Given Names” section of the passport as the standard reference. Be sure to mirror the spelling, sequence, and spacing to avoid mismatches.
Adding a Note or Explanation (if possible)
If the application platform allows you to upload a cover letter or leave a comment or note (such as in an “Additional Information” section), take advantage of that space. Briefly explain that you have only one legal name and that all documents reflect this single name consistently.
This can prevent confusion during internal review and may help when the report is being matched with future applications like visas, licenses, or university portals.
What Happens on the Final Report?
Your name as entered in the application will appear on your official credential evaluation report. For that reason, it is critical that you:
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Enter it exactly as it appears on your academic and legal documents.
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Avoid inserting names that are not officially yours just to satisfy the system’s format.
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Confirm that the name you enter will not cause mismatch problems with immigration or academic authorities later on.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Do not leave the last name field blank, even if your documents only contain one name—many systems won’t allow it and may reject the application.
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Do not invent a surname or append names unofficially; always reflect what’s on your ID or degree.
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Avoid typos, spacing errors, or inconsistent capitalization, which could cause future verification delays.
Additional Tip: Consider Getting a Name Endorsement
If you’re applying for immigration or university admission where you’ll need to prove consistency in your documents, you may want to consider getting a Name Endorsement from your passport authority. This is a formal note on your passport stating that you are known by a single name, helping reduce confusion at later stages.
Final Thoughts
While having only one name may seem like a simple matter, it can complicate things when dealing with online systems built for other naming conventions. However, by approaching the application process with clarity, consistency, and attention to detail, you can avoid errors and ensure your credential evaluation proceeds smoothly.
