Transitioning at IU
**NOTE: Our transition guide is in the process of being updated as of October 2024. Some information in it is still accurate, but many of the links, people to contact, and more are out of date. Please contact the center directly if you are in need of information.
Students have assisted our office in creating a comprehensive guide to transitioning while at IU, including adding a preferred name in various IU systems (Canvas, email, etc.). Click here to view the guide.
If you choose to pursue Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) at the IU Student Health Center, financial assistance is available. Ask your provider during an appointment, or call (812) 855-0082 to ask ahead of time. Learn more about Gender Affirming & LGBTQ+ Care at the IU SHC here.
Students from the Maurer School of Law and Bloomington Pride have curated a list of transgender affirming healthcare providers in the local area.
Here at IU, you can also change your IU username (email) to reflect your new name. This Knowledge Base article can guide you through the process.
If you wish to legally change your name and are a resident of Indiana, you will begin the process at Indiana’s online Self-Service Legal Center. Fill out the packet provided on the site, publish your intent to change your name, and then appear before a judge, who will grant the name change, as detailed here.
Once you have changed your name with the state of Indiana (or your state of residence), you will need to change the name on your Social Security card. The steps to change your name on your Social Security card can be found in great detail on the Social Security website. This can also be done by going to the office of Social Security Administration in your town. The Bloomington office is located at 515 W. Patterson Drive.
After a legal name change, you’ll also want to change your name on your driver’s license or state ID. To see the various things you’ll need to make this change if you are an Indiana resident, please check out the BMV’s page on Proving Your Identity. If you are a resident of another state, check with the office that issues driver’s credentials and/or photo ID cards in your state.
If you are an IU student and pay a student activity fee, you are entitled to free legal assistance and representation from Student Legal Services. Their staff would be happy to assist you with this process.
Because transitioning can be a tiring process, it’s important to have emotional support. Please take a look at the options we have available for student groups and counseling resources.