Queer information

In the Netherlands, it is possible to change the gender marker on your birth certificate under the Transgender Act. This law enables everyone aged 16 and older to change the gender marker from 'male' to 'female' in the Personal Records Database (and on official documents such as your passport), or vice versa. Step-by-step information is available here.

Changes to official first names, surnames or gender markers are automatically (and only) processed in OSIRIS once the details have been updated in the Personal Records Database (BRP). For more information on how to arrange this, visit your municipality’s website, for example that of the City of Utrecht.

For more on changing your personal details, visit the page on Changing Registration Details.

 

At Utrecht University, we use your preferred name as much as possible. This is the name you control: you can change it yourself to let us know how you wish to be addressed. You can update your preferred name at any time in Studielink.

1. Log in to Studielink  
2. Go to 'Personal details'  
3. Change your preferred name  
4. Save  

All IT systems accessed with your Solis account will then display the updated preferred name. Please note that it may take up to 48 hours before the change appears in all IT systems.
 

As a current or former student, you can request a replacement certificate (diploma and diploma supplement) after officially changing your name and/or gender marker in the BRP. This is possible as soon as you can provide official proof of the change. Your old diploma will be exchanged free of charge for a new diploma with your updated details. This arrangement is laid down in the Enrolment and Tuition Fees Regulations, and there is no time limit for making this request.

After an official name change, please contact the student counsellors if you would like to request a replacement certificate: studentcounsellors@uu.nl 

• Educate yourself: Learn about the LGBTQIA+ community, its diversity, and the history of the struggle for equality.
• Respect self-identification: Use the pronouns and terms that people choose for themselves. If you are unsure, ask how someone would like to be addressed.
• Use inclusive language: Choose neutral terms, such as “partner” instead of “husband/wife”.
• Be discreet and respectful: Listen without judgement, respect confidentiality, and avoid intrusive questions.
• Respect LGBTQIA+ spaces: Do not visit these spaces out of curiosity, but with respect for their role as safe places.
• Speak out against discrimination: Challenge harmful comments or behaviour and support actions that promote acceptance and wellbeing of LGBTQIA+ people.

There is much more information available about being (or becoming) an ally. Below are further resources on allyship, terminology and definitions:  

• The Guide to Being an Ally
• 7 Ways to Be a Better Ally
• Help with Terminology and Definitions