The University of California is offering six choices on the "gender identity" of undergraduate applicants although university officials clarified that this will not be used in making decisions on admission.
In the application, according to College Fix, students will be asked the question, "How do you describe yourself? (Mark one answer)."
One can choose any of the following: "male; female; trans male/trans man; trans female/trans woman; gender queer/gender non-conforming; and different identity."
The University of California has more about 238,000 students in its 10 campuses.
An applicant will also be asked "What sex were you assigned at birth, such as on an original birth certificate?" which can be answered by "male" or "female," and sexual orientation, which can be answered by "heterosexual or straight," "gay or lesbian," or filling in the blank.
Shelly Meron, spokesperson of the UC Office of the President, said the questions are voluntary and will not be used in admitting students.
"Allowing the LGBT community to self-identify also supports the university's priority of creating an inclusive and welcoming campus environment. Responses will also provide UC campuses with data that will help us better understand and meet the diverse needs of our students," she said.
These needs include allocating resources and developing programs to make sure that its campuses welcome lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) students, faculty and staff, according to the University of California Riverside Today.
One of these needs is providing gender-neutral facilities including restrooms and changing rooms.
The University of California said it is starting a two-year project on interdisciplinary study of genders and sexualities in its campuses.
"UC is working hard to ensure our campuses model inclusiveness and understanding," said President Janet Napolitano, according to UCR Today. "I'm proud of the work we've done so far, but it doesn't stop there — we must continue to look at where we can improve so everyone at UC feels respected and supported."
The changes were recommended by the UC Task Force and Implementation Team on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Climate and Inclusion last year.
