USE THE SAME QUESTIONS WE USE

Researching College Policies

These are the questions we send every school, grouped by topic. Send the whole set, or just the sections that matter most to you. What you get back will tell you more than a school's own marketing pages ever will.

Quick Exit takes you to weather.com instantly, but it doesn't clear your browser history.

Tip: copy one section at a time so your email stays manageable.

Campus culture

  • How would you describe the overall campus climate for trans and gender-diverse students?
  • What steps does the university/college take to create an inclusive environment for trans students?
  • How does the university/college measure or evaluate whether trans students feel supported?
  • How does the university/college respond when trans students report discrimination or harassment?
  • What training do faculty, staff, and administrators receive regarding transgender inclusion?

Names, pronouns, etc.

  • Can students use their chosen name and pronouns in university/college systems even if they have not legally changed them?
    • Which systems allow students to update their name and gender info (email, student portal, class rosters, ID cards, housing, etc.)?
  • How easy is the process for changing a student's info?
  • Are faculty and staff encouraged or required to use students' correct names and pronouns?
  • How does the university handle situations where a student's legal documents do not match their identity?

Housing

  • What housing options are available for trans students?
  • Are gender-inclusive or gender-neutral housing options available?
  • How are roommate assignments handled for trans students?
  • Can students request housing based on gender identity or safety concerns?
  • What support exists for trans students who experience problems in campus housing?

Bathrooms

  • Are there gender-neutral or all-gender restrooms available on campus?
  • How does the university/college ensure trans students can access facilities safely and comfortably?
  • Are changing rooms, locker rooms, and athletic facilities inclusive of trans students?

Healthcare

  • Does the university/college health center provide trans-affirming healthcare?
  • Are gender-affirming services (such as hormone therapy, referrals, or counseling) available through student health services?
  • Are healthcare providers trained in transgender health needs?
  • If certain services are unavailable on campus, does the university/college help students find outside providers?
  • Does student health insurance cover gender-affirming care?
  • How easy is all of this information for trans students to find?

Mental health

  • What mental health resources are available specifically for trans students?
  • Are counselors trained to work with LGBTQ+ and trans students?
  • How does the university/college support trans students dealing with discrimination, stress, or isolation?

Admissions

  • Does the admissions process allow applicants to indicate their chosen name and pronouns?

Classroom environment

  • Are professors provided with guidance on creating inclusive classrooms?
  • What resources exist for students who experience misgendering or discrimination in academic settings?
  • Are there LGBTQ+ or gender studies courses and programs available?
  • How does the university support trans students in professional programs (medicine, law, engineering, etc.)?

Student organizations

  • Is there an active LGBTQ+ student center or organization?
    • What kinds of resources does the LGBTQ+ center provide?
  • Are there student groups specifically for trans and nonbinary students?
  • How involved are students in shaping university/college policies affecting trans people?

Athletics / activities

  • What policies does the university/college have regarding participation of trans students in sports?
  • How does the university/college support trans students participating in clubs, organizations, and campus activities?

Safety

  • Does the university/college have a nondiscrimination policy that explicitly protects trans and genderqueer students?
  • How are complaints about anti-trans discrimination handled?
  • Are there consequences for harassment or repeated misgendering?
  • Does the university/college publish data about LGBTQ+ student experiences or campus safety?

Comparison

  • What makes this university/college stand out as a place for trans students?
  • What areas does the university/college still hope to improve regarding trans inclusion?
  • How does this university/college compare to peer institutions in supporting trans students?
  • What advice would you give a trans student deciding whether to attend this school?

Final

  • If your organization doesn't offer any of the resources or protections listed in the questions above, please explain why not.

Questions for students

  • What has your experience been like as a trans student at this university/college?
  • What are the biggest strengths of this campus for trans students?
  • What are the biggest challenges?
  • Do you feel safe being open about your identity on campus? Why or why not?
  • What is one thing you wish you had known before choosing this school?
  • Would you recommend this university/college to other trans students? Why or why not?
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