How to Apply for Gazette Notification for Name Change in School Certificate

Why You Need a Gazette Notification for Name Change

A Gazette Notification for Name Change is not just a piece of paper; it is a legal decree published by the Government of India. Many people assume that a simple affidavit is enough, but most educational boards require a central Gazette Notification for School Certificate Name Change to issue a fresh marksheet.

The Name Change Process ensures that your identity remains consistent across all platforms. Whether you are correcting a spelling error or changing your name entirely for personal reasons, the Gazette for Name Change acts as a bridge between your old identity and your new one.

Step-by-Step Name Change Process in India

Navigating the legalities can be daunting, but the Gazette Notification for Name Change can be broken down into three primary stages.

1. Preparing the Legal Affidavit

The first step is to visit a local notary to draft a Name Change Affidavit. This document must be printed on non-judicial stamp paper (usually ₹10 or ₹20). It should clearly state your old name, your new name, your full address, and the reason for the change. If the applicant is a minor, the parents must execute the affidavit.

2. Newspaper Advertisement Publication

Once the affidavit is notarized, a public notice must be published. While older rules required two advertisements, current 2026 guidelines for the Central Gazette for Name Change in India have been streamlined. You now only need to publish the announcement in one leading English newspaper circulated in your state. This advertisement serves as a formal public declaration of your Change Name in School Certificate.

3. Submission to the Department of Publication

The final step is submitting your file to the Controller of Publications. This includes your affidavit, the original newspaper, a digital CD containing your details in MS Word format, and the government fee receipt. You can submit this in person at the Civil Lines office in Delhi or via registered post.

Fees and Timeline for Name Change in School Record

The cost of a Gazette Notification for Name Change is relatively affordable compared to the long-term benefits it provides.

• Government Fees: For adults, the fee is approximately ₹1,100, while for minors, it is roughly ₹1,700.

• Other Costs: You should budget an additional ₹500–₹1,500 for the newspaper advertisement and notary charges.

• Timeline: Once the application is successfully submitted, it typically takes 30 to 45 days for the notification to appear in the e-Gazette. You can then download the PDF from the official e-Gazette portal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Gazette Notification mandatory for school certificate changes?

Yes, most boards like CBSE and various State Boards strictly require a Central Gazette copy to process a Name Change in School Certificate.

2. Can I change my name in school records after many years?

Yes, but many boards have a "window" (often 5 years) after which the process becomes more complex. Regardless of the time passed, the Gazette for Name Change in School Record is the mandatory starting point.

3. Is one newspaper advertisement enough?

According to the latest 2026 updates from the Department of Publication, one advertisement in a leading English newspaper is sufficient for the central Gazette Notification for Name Change.

4. How do I download my Gazette copy?

You can visit the official website (egazette.gov.in), search for your name or the date of publication, and download the digital PDF. This digital copy is legally valid for all purposes.

5. Why is a digital CD required?

The Department of Publication uses the MS Word file on the CD to copy the text directly into the official Gazette to avoid any manual typing errors.

Conclusion

Correcting your identity through a Gazette Notification for Name Change is a vital step for your professional and academic future. While the Name Change Process involves several legal layers—from the affidavit to the newspaper ad—following the correct sequence ensures a smooth transition. Once your name is officially updated in the Gazette, you can confidently approach your school or board for a revised school leaving certificate name change.

If you find the legal jargon or the CD formatting process overwhelming, it is always wise to seek professional help.