Voting is one of the best ways to express your voice during college, which is a period for fresh ideas, experiences, and self-discovery. Voting gives you the ability to change things, regardless of whether you’re studying far from home or in your home state. Here are several ways to get involved on your university campus, stay politically active, and register to vote.
Voting While Away at College
If you’re a college student living out of state, you have two main options for voting:
- Register to Vote in Your Home State: Request an absentee ballot to vote by mail.
- Register to Vote in Your College State: Cast your ballot in person at your campus polling location or nearby precinct.
Both options are legal, and the choice depends on where you feel your vote matters most—your home community or your college town.
How to Register to Vote Out-of-State
- Check Voter Registration Deadlines: Every state has different rules. Use a reliable resource like nass.org/can-I-vote to find your state’s deadlines.
- Gather Required Documents: You may need identification or proof of residency, such as a college ID or utility bill.
- Register Online or by Mail: Many states allow online registration, while others require forms to be mailed.
- Request an Absentee Ballot (If Needed): If voting in your home state, request a ballot early to ensure you can vote on time.
“The future of this republic is in the hands of the American voter.”
— Dwight D. Eisenhower
Getting Politically Involved on Campus
Voting is just the beginning. Here are ways to stay engaged:
- Join Political Clubs: Many universities have organizations for all political viewpoints, providing opportunities to discuss issues, volunteer for campaigns, or advocate for causes.
- Attend Local Candidate Events: Many candidates visit college campuses to connect with young voters. Attend debates, rallies, or town halls to learn more.
- Volunteer at the Polls: Help your peers navigate the voting process by signing up as a poll worker or student voting ambassador.
- Advocate for Voter Education: Partner with campus organizations to host voter registration drives and spread awareness about deadlines and voting procedures.
Why Your Voice Matters
College students make up a significant portion of the electorate, yet voter turnout among young adults is often low. By registering to vote and staying politically involved, you can help address issues like student loan debt, climate change, and social justice—topics that directly impact your generation.
Your vote is your voice, and your participation can inspire others to take action. Let your college years be a time of both learning and leading.
For more resources on registering to vote, finding polling places, and staying informed, check out the Resources page on FutureVotersSchroder.com.
Together, let’s make our voices heard—starting on campus!
Future Voters! 
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