Can I Change My Name After 10th?

July 18, 2025

Many people wonder whether it’s possible to change their name after completing the 10th grade. The answer is YES, you can legally change your name even after 10th, 12th, or any stage of life. However, the process involves certain legal formalities and documentation to ensure your new name is recognized officially in your school records, certificates, and government IDs.

In this blog, we will discuss the possibility, process, documents required, and key things to remember when changing your name after 10th.

Why Do People Change Their Name After 10th?

There can be several reasons why someone wants to change their name after 10th class:

Spelling Mistakes: Incorrect spelling of name in school or certificates.
Astrological or Numerological Reasons: Belief in name changes for good fortune.
Marriage or Divorce: Adopting spouse’s surname or reverting to maiden name.
Religious Conversion: Changing name after adopting a new religion.
Personal Choice: Simply preferring a new name for identity purposes.
Correction of Initials or Expansion: Adding or removing initials for clarity.

Is It Legally Possible to Change Name After 10th?

Yes, legally, there is no restriction on when you can change your name. However, you must follow the legal procedure as per the Indian Name Change Laws to make the new name valid in official records. The process includes:

Affidavit for Name Change
Newspaper Publication
Publication in the Official Gazette

Once you complete these steps, your name change is legally valid across India.

Step-by-Step Process to Change Name After 10th

Here is the complete procedure:

1. Prepare an Affidavit for Name Change

The first step is creating an affidavit declaring your old name, new name, and reason for the change.

This affidavit must be printed on stamp paper (value differs by state).
It should be signed by you and attested by a Notary Public or Magistrate.

Key Details in Affidavit:

Current name and new name.
Reason for name change.
Applicant’s address and details.

2. Publish in a Newspaper

After the affidavit, publish your name change in two newspapers (one local and one national).

The advertisement should clearly mention your old name, new name, and date of change.
Keep copies of these newspapers as proof.

3. Gazette Notification

The most important step is publishing your name change in the Official Gazette of India.

Submit the required documents to the Department of Publication.
After verification, your new name will be published in the Gazette, making it legally valid.

Documents Required for Name Change After 10th

To change your name officially, you need the following documents:

Affidavit for name change.
Copies of newspaper publications.
Gazette form and fee.
Passport-size photographs.
ID proof (Aadhar Card, PAN Card, etc.).
10th marksheet/certificate (as proof of old name).

How to Update Name in 10th Certificate After Name Change?

After completing the legal process, you can approach your respective education board (CBSE, ICSE, or State Board) for name correction in your certificates.

Important Points:

Each board has its own rules for name correction.
CBSE allows name correction based on Gazette notification and supporting documents.
Application must be made within the timeline set by the board.

What Is the Cost of Name Change After 10th?

The cost varies depending on the state and the number of newspapers selected. On average:

Affidavit: ₹100 – ₹200
Newspaper Publication: ₹500 – ₹1500
Gazette Notification: ₹1500 – ₹2000
Total Estimated Cost: ₹2500 – ₹4000

Is There Any Time Limit for Name Change After 10th?

No, there is no time limit. You can change your name anytime after 10th or later in life. However, for updating your school/college records, it’s better to do it as early as possible.

Can I Change My Surname Only After 10th?

Yes, you can change only your surname or full name following the same process (affidavit, newspaper publication, and Gazette notification).

Things to Remember Before Changing Name

The new name should not be offensive or misleading.
Always keep copies of affidavit, newspapers, and Gazette for future reference.
Make sure to update all important documents after name change, such as Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, Bank accounts, etc.

Conclusion

Yes, you can change your name after 10th, but it requires completing the legal formalities to make it official. Following the proper process ensures your new name is accepted everywhere, including educational certificates and government documents.

Legal Search