BA Journalism & Mass Communication Degree Name Change: Legal Process in India

Introduction

A name mismatch or error in a BA Journalism & Mass Communication degree can cause problems in jobs, media accreditation, higher studies, passports, and background verification. Indian universities follow a legally defined process for degree name change or correction, which usually involves an affidavit, Gazette notification (if required), and formal university approval. This blog explains the correct and legal way to change or correct a name on a BA Journalism & Mass Communication degree in India.

Common Reasons for Name Change in BA Journalism & Mass Communication Degree

Students generally apply for name change or correction due to:

• Spelling mistake in first, middle, or last name

• Mismatch between degree name and Aadhaar/Passport

• Use of initials instead of full name

• Surname change after marriage

• Personal or legal name change

• Clerical or typographical error by the university

  Identifying whether your case is a name correction or a name change is critical, as universities treat both differently.

University Rules for Degree Name Change

Most Indian universities follow these general principles:

1. Clerical / Typographical Error

If:

• The mistake occurred due to a university error, and

• Your admission or enrollment records contain the correct name

Then:

• Correction is usually allowed

• Gazette notification may not be required

2. Name Change / Name Variation

If:

• The incorrect name exists in earlier academic records, or

• You are intentionally changing your name (marriage, personal, legal reason)

Then universities usually require:

• Name change affidavit

• Gazette notification

• Supporting identity documents

3. Time Limit

Some universities specify a correction time limit (1–5 years), but many still process old BA Journalism & Mass Communication degree name change cases with additional legal documentation.

Affidavit Requirement

An affidavit is mandatory in almost all cases.

Affidavit must mention:

• Correct name (as per Aadhaar/Passport)

• Incorrect name printed on degree

• Course name (BA Journalism & Mass Communication)

• University name and year of passing

• Clear declaration that both names belong to the same person

Affidavit must be:

• Executed on non-judicial stamp paper

• Notarized or attested by Executive Magistrate / SDM (as per university rule)

Gazette Notification – When Is It Required?

Gazette publication is required when:

• The case is treated as a name change, not a correction

• The incorrect name appears in multiple educational records

• The university specifically demands Gazette proof

Gazette process overview:

• Preparation of name change affidavit

• Newspaper publication (if required by state rules)

• Gazette application submission

• Publication in State or Central Gazette

Once published, the Gazette becomes permanent legal proof, accepted by universities, passport offices, and government departments.

Documents Required

Commonly required documents include:

• University name change application form

• Original degree certificate

• Aadhaar Card / Passport / Voter ID

• Name change or correction affidavit

• Gazette notification (if applicable)

• Admission form / enrollment record

• Migration certificate (in some cases)

• Covering letter explaining the request

(Document requirements may vary slightly by university.)

Step-by-Step Legal Process

1. Identify whether the case is correction or name change

2. Draft affidavit with legally correct wording

3. Complete Gazette publication (if required)

4. Submit application with documents to the university

5. University verification and approval

6. Issuance of corrected degree certificate

Timeline: Usually 30–90 days, depending on university procedure.

Fees for Degree Name Change

Fees depend on:

• University rules

• Affidavit stamp duty

• Gazette publication (State or Central)

• Administrative and processing charges

Approximate cost: ₹3,000 to ₹15,000+
(varies by university and case complexity)

Important Points to Remember

• Universities do not allow casual or informal name changes

• Gazette publication is a lifelong legal solution

• Consistency across all documents is essential

• Old cases are possible with strong legal documentation

LSO Legal Experience 

LSO Legal has over 30 years of experience in handling university degree name change and correction cases across India, including BA Journalism & Mass Communication. We manage the complete legal process—affidavit drafting, Gazette publication, and university follow-up—ensuring smooth approval even in old or complex cases.

Conclusion

Changing a name on a BA Journalism & Mass Communication degree is a legally structured process, not a simple correction. Whether the issue is a minor spelling error or a complete name change, following the correct procedure—affidavit, Gazette (if required), and proper documentation—is essential to avoid rejection.

Proper legal handling ensures your degree remains valid for jobs, media careers, higher studies, passports, and government verification for life.

Need Assistance with Degree Name Change?

If you are confused about university rules, affidavit format, Gazette publication, or document requirements, professional assistance can save time and prevent rejection.

  End-to-end degree name change handling
  Affidavit drafting as per university rules
  State / Central Gazette publication support
  University application and follow-up
  Old and complex cases handled

For applying online, click here and fill your details.

WhatsApp: + 918085829369

Email: support@lsolegal.com | Website: https://lsolegal.com

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I change my name on a BA Journalism & Mass Communication degree after many years?
Yes. Most universities allow name change or correction even after several years, provided you submit a valid affidavit and Gazette notification (if required).

2. What is the difference between name correction and name change?
Name correction fixes spelling or clerical errors, while name change involves altering the name due to marriage, personal, or legal reasons. Name change usually requires Gazette publication.

3. Is Gazette notification compulsory for degree name change?
Gazette notification is mandatory only if the case is treated as a name change or if the incorrect name appears in multiple academic records.

4. Which affidavit is required for degree name change?
A notarized or SDM/Executive Magistrate–attested affidavit mentioning the correct name, incorrect name, course name, university, and year of passing.

5. How long does the BA Journalism & Mass Communication degree name change process take?
The process usually takes 30 to 90 days, depending on university verification and Gazette publication timelines.

6. What documents are required for degree name change?
Generally required documents include the original degree certificate, Aadhaar/Passport, affidavit, Gazette notification (if applicable), admission records, and university application form.

7. Will the university issue a new degree certificate after correction?
Yes. After approval, the university issues a corrected degree certificate or an officially endorsed corrected copy.

8. Is the corrected degree valid for jobs, passport, and higher studies?
Yes. A university-issued corrected degree is legally valid for employment, passport, visa, and higher education purposes.

9. Can I apply for name change without visiting the university?
Some universities accept postal or online applications, but many still require physical submission. Professional handling can reduce personal visits.

10. What should I do if my application is rejected?
Rejection usually occurs due to incomplete documentation. Submitting a Gazette notification, properly drafted affidavit, and legal representation generally resolves the issue.