College Voter Prep Guide Tips for Registering & Voting on Campus

Each state has different voter registration deadlines and eligibility requirements, so students should give themselves time to check these requirements and make sure they are eligible before starting the registration process. There are a few requirements, however, that will likely apply to most students.

• Must be 18 years old to vote. Age requirements for registration can vary.

• Must be a United States citizen

• Must meet state residency requirements

• Must complete the voter registration form by a specified deadline

• Must provide ID on voting day

When registering to vote, you can select a political party affiliation. While students may choose not to affiliate with any of the major political parties, it may prevent them from being able to participate in caucuses and primary elections. Closed primaries, for instance, are generally reserved for members of the Democratic and Republican parties to determine the candidate that will represent each group in the main election.

It’s important to note that “Independent” and “nonpartisan” are not one in the same. The American Independent Party is a large third party that people often register under, assuming it means they will be unaffiliated with a political party. Those who do not want to declare a political party should choose “nonpartisan” or “unaffiliated”.

If you’re undecided on your affiliation, it may be helpful to research the various parties and their stands on current issues. See “Before You Vote: Getting Educated on the Issues” for more information.

Registering to vote is a relatively simple process, and can be done in a few different ways. In general, registrants will need to fill out a form and provide some type of approved ID, like a driver’s license. A social security card or number may also be required.

• In person

  Especially during election season, students will find plenty of opportunities to register to vote in person. Often, canvassers walk around campus with registration forms and can help students fill them out. Student government representatives may stop by classrooms to hand out forms, as well. Otherwise, students can register to vote at their state or local election office, the DMV, armed services recruitment centers or public assistance offices.

• Online

  Online registration is available in 31 states and the District of Columbia. Vote.gov can help students determine if online registration is available in their state and, if so, direct them to the right form.

• By mail

  Students can pick up a registration form in person or download one from their state’s voting webpage, fill it out and mail it in with any other necessary documents.

Out-of-state students who register to vote in their home state will need to request an absentee ballot in order to vote. Some states allow mail-in voting without requiring a reason, while others will need proof that a student is unable to make it to a local polling station. Many nonprofit organizations make it easy to request an absentee ballot online, or students can go through their state’s voting page.

After placing the request, a ballot should arrive in the mail before election day. Students will need to send their completed ballot through the mail before the date listed on the ballot.

When election day rolls around, it’s time to go vote! Before that, though, students should check polling locations and times if they plan to vote in person. They should plan to set aside a few hours, as polling stations can be very busy. To smooth the process, students should make sure they have their voter registration card, any necessary ID and their practice ballot, where they can have all their votes written down for easy reference.

Those who mail in their votes can prepare their ballots early to be sure they get them postmarked by the designated deadline. Students should be careful to follow all instructions and make sure their ballot is complete before mailing it in.