Florida State University
Office of Trademark Licensing

FAQ

What is a Trademark?

A trademark (or mark) is any logo, symbol, nickname, letter(s), word, slogan, or derivative used by an organization, company or institution to identify its goods/services and distinguish them from other entities or competitors.

Any reference to the University or trademarks adopted hereafter and used or approved for use by Florida State University shall be subject to the policies and procedures of the Office of Trademark Licensing. Additionally, any derivations of the University marks which would cause consumers to erroneously believe that the product originated from or was sponsored or authorized by the University shall also be covered by the trademark licensing program policies and procedures.

Who Needs a License?

Licenses must be obtained for the use of any FSU trademark, image, or photograph used on any packaging (including hangtags, stickers), signage, or product sold to the general public or to campus departments and organizations. In addition, promotional licenses must be obtained by companies or organizations wanting to associate with the University through any use of its trademarks.

If you or your business/organization wishes to use any of FSU’s trademarks in any type of advertisement to promote the sale of your goods or services (print advertisements, radio spots, TV spots) or if you or your business/organization wishes to use any of FSU’s trademarks to drive business to your organization in other ways, please contact Seminole IMG at 850-645-7862.

How do I know if it is licensed?

To ensure that a product is licensed, look for the “Officially Licensed Collegiate Products” label and/or hologram sticker. Other signs of unlicensed or infringing merchandise may be:

  • Product appears to be very poor quality
  • Florida State University images and logos are distorted or manipulated, sometimes in a distasteful manner
  • Trademark designations - (R) or TM, are missing from some or all Florida State logos and verbiage.

Florida State University does NOT approve or endorse the use of its marks in conjunction with alcohol or tobacco related products, illegal or illicit activities or substances, firearms, religious affiliation, or political affiliation. Florida State University does NOT approve designs on behalf of any third party right's holder.