PROVO -- Brigham Young University has clarified its beard policy to make formal exceptions to the rule that male students are to be clean shaven.

“Although exceptions have been given in the past, BYU has now formally identified three areas where exceptions to BYU’s beard policy may be considered,” said Carri Jenkins, BYU spokeswoman.

The three areas are for students with a medical condition, involved in a theatrical production or for religious observance or practice, like Muslims or Sikhs.