BSW Degree Name Change in India: Legal Procedure, Gazette & University Rules

Introduction

A name error or mismatch in a BSW (Bachelor of Social Work) degree certificate can create serious difficulties in higher education, government jobs, NGO recruitment, social work licensing, passports, visas, and background verification. Indian universities follow strict legal rules for degree name change or correction, and informal requests are not accepted.

This blog explains the complete legal process for BSW degree name change in India, including university rules, affidavit requirements, Gazette notification, documents, fees, timeline, and important precautions to avoid rejection.

Common Reasons for Name Change in BSW Degree

Students usually apply for name correction or change 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 university/college

 Important: Universities clearly distinguish between name correction and name change, and documentation depends on this classification.

University Rules for BSW Degree Name Change

Most Indian universities follow these principles:

1. Clerical / Typographical Error

If:

• The mistake occurred due to a university or college error, and

• Admission/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 mention a time limit (1–5 years), but many universities still allow old BSW degree name change cases with stronger legal documentation and approval.

Affidavit Requirement for BSW Degree Name Change

An affidavit is mandatory in almost all cases.

Affidavit Must Mention

• Correct name (as per Aadhaar/Passport)

• Incorrect name printed on BSW degree

• Course name (BSW – Bachelor of Social Work)

• 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 rules)

Gazette Notification – When Is It Required?

Gazette publication is required when:

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

• The incorrect name appears in multiple educational records

• The university specifically demands Gazette proof

Gazette Process Overview

1. Preparation of name change affidavit

2. Newspaper publication (if required by state rules)

3. Gazette application submission

4. Publication in State or Central Gazette

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

Documents Required for BSW Degree Name Change

Commonly required documents include:

• University name change application form

• Original BSW degree certificate

• Aadhaar Card / Passport / Voter ID

• Name change or name 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 BSW degree certificate

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

Fees for BSW 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 30+ years of experience handling university degree name change and correction cases across India, including BSW and other social science degrees.
We handle the complete legal process—affidavit drafting, Gazette publication, and university follow-up—even in old, complex, and multi-document mismatch cases, ensuring smooth approval and permanent validity.

Conclusion

BSW degree name change in India is a legally structured process, governed by university regulations and Gazette rules. Whether the issue is a minor spelling error or a complete name change, following the correct legal steps—affidavit, Gazette (if required), and proper documentation—is essential to avoid rejection.

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

Need Assistance with BSW 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 BSW 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 BSW degree name be changed after many years?
Yes, most universities allow old cases with affidavit and Gazette notification (if required).

2. Is Gazette mandatory for BSW degree name change?
Only if the case is treated as a name change, not a clerical correction.

3. What affidavit is required?
A notarized or SDM-attested affidavit mentioning correct name, incorrect name, course, university, and year.

4. How long does the process take?
Usually 30–90 days depending on university procedure.

5. Will I receive a new degree certificate?
Yes, a corrected degree or officially endorsed corrected copy is issued.

6. Is the corrected degree valid for jobs and passport?
Yes, it is legally valid for all official purposes.

7. Can I apply without visiting the university?
Some universities allow postal/online submission; others require physical filing.

8. What if my request is rejected?
A stronger legal approach using Gazette notification and SDM affidavit usually resolves it.

9. Can surname be changed after marriage?
Yes, with affidavit and Gazette notification.

10. Is professional help necessary?
For old or complex cases, professional handling significantly improves approval chances.