This page includes Frequently Asked Questions and resources for trans, non-binary, and gender non-conforming students at UVA and beyond. If you have any questions about trans student support or want to get connected to community at UVA, please contact Carissa Temerson, Program Coordinator - Multicultural Student Services ([email protected]).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

The University of Virginia¹ is committed to creating a welcoming environment for our trans, non-binary, and gender nonconforming students. This set of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) is designed to provide information from various University stakeholders to answer common questions in one convenient online location. For more information, please do not hesitate to contact any of the referenced University offices directly. We are here to support you.

Name and Gender Updates/Changes

How Do I Change My Name in the Student Information System (SIS)?

Students have two names in SIS: their preferred name and their primary (or legal) name. The preferred name can be changed anytime and will appear on class rosters, UVA email, and the SIS student center. The primary (legal) name appears on the official transcript and diploma and can be changed only with appropriate supporting documentation.

To change your preferred name, start here:  ITS - Update Personal Information Webpage. Changing your preferred name will have no impact on your computing ID. See below for information regarding your computing ID.

To change your primary (legal) name, contact the Office of the University Registrar (Registrar) at [email protected] or (434) 924-4122. The Registrar will provide a form for you to complete and explain what supporting documentation you need to provide with the completed form (e.g., court order, marriage certificate, government-issued ID).

After you update your primary name in SIS, that name will appear on your official transcript and diploma. You can view your unofficial transcript in SIS to make sure your new primary name is showing properly.

Can My Preferred Name Be Used On My Transcript and Diploma?

As noted above, by default, the name that appears on a student’s transcript and that is printed on a student’s diploma is the primary (legal) name from SIS. Students who have not yet updated their primary name in SIS and wish to use their preferred name on their transcript and diploma should contact the University Registrar’s Office at [email protected] or (434) 924-4122.

Do I have to use my legal name on my UVA Student ID Card?

No. The University Academic ID office uses preferred name on the student ID card. You can contact the Academic ID Card Office for more information. 

How Do I Change My Gender Marker in SIS?

When you applied to UVA you voluntarily self-identified information about your demographic characteristics that were carried over into your student record. While these are not accessible to you for updates from your Student Information System (SIS) dashboard, you can request that the gender marker be changed by the Office of the University Registrar (UREG). For information about that process contact UREG at [email protected].

What if I am a Student Athlete?

If you are a student athlete who seeks to change your gender marker, that change may have implications beyond UVA to be aware of and consider. See NCAA Player Eligibility | Resource

NCAA player eligibility rules may require a specific notation or medical waiver form related to hormone therapy in connection with a medical transition. Student-athletes seeking assistance with this process should contact the Department of Sports Medicine at 434 - 982 - 5450.

Where Can I Learn More about Changing my Name/Gender Marker on Local, State, and Federal Documents?

While processes for name/gender marker changes vary by state, Student Legal Services can review these with you and help you be more informed. Student Legal Services provides low-cost, confidential legal assistance to University of Virginia students. They provide legal help on a wide variety of legal matters. No fee is charged for consultations. All fees are minimal.

Housing 

How Do I Obtain University Housing That Aligns With My Gender Identity?

The University works to assign affirming housing for all students, and there are multiple options available. One option is "open housing:" All students (both first-year and upper-class students) who wish to request roommates regardless of their sex or gender identity are eligible to enroll in “open housing”. For more information regarding open housing options, see:  Open Housing Options at UVA.

To learn about additional housing options, please contact visit the Housing and Residence Life Inclusive Housing FAQ or contact [email protected].

Facility Access

Can I Use Restrooms and Other Sex-Specific Facilities Consistent with My Gender Identity?

Sex-specific facilities at the University, such as restrooms and locker rooms, are available to individuals based on their gender identity.  In addition, LGBTQ Student Services at UVA maintains an interactive map which identifies a variety of single-stall and gender-neutral bathrooms throughout UVA, the Medical Center, on the Corner, Downtown Charlottesville, and other nearby areas. In addition, many All-Gender Restrooms have been marked around Grounds; look for the signage.

Healthcare Services

I’m Considering Seeking Medical Care As Part Of My Transition. Where Can I Find More Information About Available Resources?

Student Health provides confidential care and support for students navigating the gender transition process through the transgender services website. The team offers outpatient medical and psychological consultations and treatment. The team also provides assistance in accessing alternative resources, such as longer term treatment in the community.

(Note: The Transgender Health Care Team in Student Health has a process for students to indicate a preferred name when seeking medical care.)

Does My Health Insurance Provide Coverage For Transgender Healthcare Needs?

If you have your health insurance through the university’s Aetna Student Health Insurance Plan, then you do have coverage for transgender healthcare needs (e.g., surgical, hormone replacement therapy, counseling) within the limitations and exclusions specified in the Plan Documents and Benefits Resources. 

If you have your health insurance through your parent’s/guardian’s plan or another plan, please check the details carefully to determine what your health insurance plan will cover and what it will not.  All plans are different and some fail to cover transgender healthcare needs.  Contact your health plan provider in advance to understand your coverage.

University And Charlottesville Community Resources 

Where Can I Find Support Services As A Trans, Non-Binary, And/Or Gender Nonconforming Student?

Student Affairs provides support to transgender and gender nonconforming students primarily, but not exclusively, through staff in the LGBTQ Center in Newcomb Hall. The Office for Equal Opportunity and Civil Rights (EOCR) also provides education and response pursuant to the University’s Preventing and Addressing Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation Policies and Policy on Sexual and Gender-Based Harassment and Other Forms of Interpersonal Violence, all of which include gender identity as a protected characteristic and collectively protect against discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. The Maxine Platzer Lynn Women's Center also provides support, counseling, and The Room to Breathe in its renovated space across from the Corner.

Visit Student Health and Wellness’s transgender services website.

Community resources you might find helpful include the Charlottesville Pride Community Network, Side by Side, and Equality Virginia.

Additional Resources

Local

Cville Pride Trans Resources

• Cville Pride's mission is to create a vibrant, visible, and inclusive LGBTQ community presence in Charlottesville, Albemarle, and the surrounding region that promotes equality through events, education, outreach, and advocacy.

Side by Side

• Side by Side is dedicated to creating supportive communities where Virginia’s LGBTQ+ youth can define themselves, belong, and flourish.

Regional

"Trans in the South" Guide

• A directory of more than 400 Southern health service providers that the Campaign for Southern Equality team has confirmed to be trans-friendly and trans-competent. Available in both English and Spanish.

National

Trans Student Educational Resources

Trans LifeLine - (877) 565-8860

• A non-profit hotline staffed by transgender volunteers for trans people who are experiencing difficulty or crisis.