The .edu domain is reserved for accredited U.S. post‑secondary institutions and signals trust and authority. Here’s the updated 2026 process for registering one.
Updated January 18, 2026.
Who Can Register a .edu Domain?
- U.S.-based post‑secondary institutions.
- Accredited by a U.S. Department of Education–recognized agency.
Documents You’ll Need
- Accreditation proof.
- Institution legal name and address.
- Administrative contact details.
Step‑by‑Step Registration
- Visit EDUCAUSE: net.educause.edu/edu-domain
- Confirm eligibility.
- Submit the application and documents.
- Pay registration fee.
- Wait for approval and configure DNS.
Why a .edu Domain Matters
- Higher trust and credibility.
- Clear educational identity.
- Stronger perception in search and public visibility.
If You’re Not Eligible
Consider alternatives like .org or country‑specific education domains (e.g., .ac.uk, .edu.in).
Final Thought
A .edu domain is a credibility signal that benefits long‑term reputation. If your institution qualifies, it’s worth the effort.
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