Whether you're a first-time voter or just need a refresher, this guide will help you:
✅ Register to vote before your state's deadline.
✅ Find your polling place or request an absentee ballot.
✅ Research candidates & ballot measures to make informed choices.

Step 1: Register to Vote

✅ How to Check If You’re Already Registered

✔ Visit nass.org/can-I-vote and select "Check Voter Registration Status".

✅ How to Register to Vote

You can register online, by mail, or in person, depending on your state.

1. Online Registration (Available in most states)
✔ Visit nass.org/can-I-vote to find your state’s online voter registration link.

2. By Mail
✔ Download a voter registration form at nass.org/can-I-vote.
✔ Fill it out and mail it before your state’s deadline.

3. In-Person Registration
✔ Visit your local election office, DMV, or public library.
✔ Many college campuses hold voter registration drives—check your student union!

?️ Voter Registration Deadlines

✔ Each state has different deadlines—check yours at nass.org/can-I-vote.
✔ Some states allow same-day voter registration (e.g., CO, MN, WI).

Final Tip: If you're using a college address, check if you need extra documents (like a student ID or utility bill) to prove residency.

Step 2: Find Where & How to Vote️

Once you're registered, make a voting plan so you don’t miss your chance to cast your ballot.

✅ Where to Vote

✔ Find your polling place at nass.org/can-I-vote.
✔ Some colleges have on-campus polling stations—check with student services.

✅ Ways to Vote

1. In-Person Early Voting
✔ Many states allow early voting weeks before Election Day—avoid the crowds!

2. Mail-In Voting (Absentee Ballot)
✔ If you're studying out of state, request an absentee ballot at nass.org/can-I-vote.
✔ Mail your ballot early to avoid delays!

3. In-Person on Election Day
✔ Polls are usually open 6 AM – 8 PM (varies by state).

✅ Do You Need an ID to Vote?

✔ Some states require government-issued IDs, student IDs, or proof of residence.
✔ Check voter ID laws at nass.org/can-I-vote.

Final Tip: If you're turned away at the polls, ask for a provisional ballot and follow up on your vote’s status.

Step 3: Research Candidates & Ballot Issues️

Before you vote, take time to research the candidates, policies, and ballot measures.

✅ Best Non-Partisan Resources for Researching Candidates & Ballot Measures:

1. Ballot Ready – www.ballotready.org
✔ Provides state-by-state info on candidates & referendums.

2. Vote411 (League of Women Voters) – www.vote411.org
✔ Compare candidates’ positions & find personalized election info.

3. Rock the Vote – www.rockthevote.org
✔ Voter education & guides for young voters.

4. ProPublica's Represent – projects.propublica.org/represent/
✔ Tracks how elected officials vote on key issues.

5. FactCheck.org & Politifact – www.factcheck.org | www.politifact.com
✔ Non-partisan fact-checking of candidates & political ads.

6. Campus Election Engagement Project – campuselect.org
✔ Special guides for college students voting in local & national elections.

Final Tip: Research candidates before Election Day so you’re confident in your choices!

Step 4: Encourage Others & Get Involved

Voting is even more powerful when you help others participate!

✅ Ways to Take Action:
✔ Join voter registration drives on campus.
✔ Help classmates request absentee ballots.
✔ Offer rides to polling places for students who need transportation.
✔ Become a poll worker (Get paid! Sign up at powerthepolls.org).

Final Tip: Studies show that people are more likely to vote when a friend reminds them—send texts, share deadlines, and talk about issues that matter!

Final Thoughts: Be a Confident & Informed Voter!

Voting is your chance to shape the future—on issues like student loans, healthcare, climate change, and civil rights. By registering early, making a plan, and researching candidates, you can vote with confidence!

✅ Quick Recap – How to Vote as a Student:
✔ Register before the deadline – Check at nass.org/can-I-vote.
✔ Find your polling place – Know where & when to vote.
✔ Decide how to vote – In-person, early voting, or absentee ballot.
✔ Research candidates & ballot measures – Use Ballot Ready, Vote411, and Rock the Vote.
✔ Encourage friends to vote – Spread the word & volunteer!

Final Pro Tip: Making voting a habit now means you’re more likely to be a lifelong voter!️

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