The abbreviation "PWE" may carry a negative connotation compared with the labels "person with epilepsy" and "epileptic".

Purpose: Ways of labeling a person with epilepsy (PWE) may have an impact on public position towards affected persons. This study analyzed college students position changes, influenced by three different labels of PWE.

Methods: Observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study. Students of three schools answered one of three questionnaires whose content changed in the labeling form: person with epilepsy, epileptic or PWE. Proportions were compared with Chi square test or Fisher's exact test to explore considering age, gender, religion practicing, socioeconomic status, knowing an affected person and by faculty.

Results: A total of 273 questionnaires were included were distributed in medicine 133 (48.7 %), engineering 108 (39.6 %) and law 32 (11.7 %) schools. Labeling type distribution was person with epilepsy 94 (34.4 %), epileptic 93 (34.1 %) and PWE 86 (31.5 %. No statistical differences were found according the labels person with epilepsy and epileptic. The abbreviation PWE had statistical significant connotation in aspects of academic achievement p = 0,007, selecting a PWE in your work team p = 0,009, self control p < 0,000, being dangerous p < 0,000 and having any disturbance in thought or behavior p = 0,05. Religion practicing, socioeconomic status and knowing a person with epilepsy did not impact in attitude related to labeling. Engineering and law students expressed their concern in employability.

Conclusion: The abbreviation PWE may have negative connotations when used in written questionnaires. No differences were found with the labels person with epilepsy and epileptic in college students. More studies are needed to explore the stigmatizing or destigmatizing effects of labeling a person with epilepsy on different populations.