A vanity alias is a short, easy-to-remember web address (e.g., research.gatech.edu) that redirects to your full site URL. Institute Communications (IC) reviews all vanity alias requests to ensure they meet Georgia Tech’s naming and brand standards.
Do this early:
Submit your vanity alias request as early as possible to avoid delays to your site launch. Approval is based on established standards, not build status. Follow the steps below to get started.
Step 1: Identify Your Site Type
If your website is funded or sponsored by Georgia Tech, it must use a gatech.edu URL. The vanity alias format depends on the type of site you manage.
| Type of Website | Vanity Alias Format | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Institute-level unit or collaboration | [name].gatech.edu | Used for official Institute-level departments or multi-unit collaborations that represent Georgia Tech as a whole (for example, catalog.gatech.edu or neuroscience.gatech.edu). Not used for individual labs, even if multi-unit. |
| College, school, or department | [name].[unit].gatech.edu | Used for any site managed by a specific school, college, or department, including labs and faculty sites. |
| Registered Student Organization (RSO/DRSO) | [name].gtorg.gatech.edu | Used for approved student organizations only. |
Step 2: Follow the Naming Standards
Your proposed name must:
- Use short, clear, descriptive words.
- Avoid unnecessary abbreviations/acronyms (unless officially recognized).
- Use lowercase letters only.
- Be unique and not easily confused with an existing site (e.g., career vs. careers).
If your name includes a Georgia Tech trademark, the Licensing & Trademarks team will review it.
Need help? Vanity-URLs@office365.gatech.edu.
Step 3: Submit Your Request
Choose the form that matches your hosting:
GT Account login required
Step 4: Respond to Any Follow-ups
IC may contact you for clarification. Reply promptly to keep things moving.
Step 5: Get a Decision
You’ll receive approval or denial within seven business days (some reviews take longer).
If approved:
- OIT processes the request.
- The DNS team creates the alias.
- You or your web team add the alias to your site.
If denied:
- IC will suggest an alternate name.
- You can proceed with a subdomain via OIT.
- You may appeal by submitting additional information.
At a Glance
What Institute Communications Looks For
- The site type matches the domain format (top-level vs subdomain).
- The name is clear, lowercase, and non-conflicting.
- Institute-wide scope is required for [name].gatech.edu.
- Trademark usage is approved (when applicable).
Related Policy
These requirements support the Institute’s Brand Identity Standards Policy.
Questions?
If you don’t yet have a campus-hosted site, or have questions about a Vanity Alias, email Vanity-URLs@office365.gatech.edu.