Do you want to vote and don't know if you're registered? Is this your first election? Does the whole process of voting by absentee ballot seem really exhausting and daunting? Are you completely lost when it comes to the political process?
Use this as a non-partisan guide to get the information you need to go out and vote this November!
Registering to Vote
If you haven't registered to vote yet, you should do so as soon as possible. Most states require you to submit your voter registration forms at least a month month prior to the election date. There are some states that are experimenting with same-day voter registration. This is where unregistered voters can show up to the polls on election day, and register to vote & submit their ballots that same day. You can find out if your state is one of those here. Most college campuses also run voter registration events, where they can help you register to vote, even if you live out of state. If your college won't be having a registration event before the deadlines for your state, here are a few websites that can help you register to vote without much hassle.
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Unsure if you're registered to vote or not? Find out here!
Voting in Person
If you live close to home and can vote in person, or will be traveling back home for election day, be sure you know where your polling place is! Check the voter ID laws for your state, and be sure to bring the required documentation with you, if it's necessary for you to vote. Check your voting status prior to showing up at your polling station: if there are any issues listed, be sure to get those resolved before election day!
If your voting district allows for early voting, take advantage of the opportunity! The polls will be much less crowded compared to election day, and you will be less stressed.
You can check the voter ID laws and required documentation for your state, as well as your personal voting status here.
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Voting by Absentee Ballot
If you're like me, you won't be able to travel home to vote in person this November. In that case you will need to request an absentee ballot. An absentee ballot is where your state election office will send you a packet including a ballot, and instructions for returning your ballot once it is completed. When voting via absentee ballot, you will need to have witnesses (two people of voting age) with you while you fill it out. This is just a precaution to help prevent voter fraud. Once completed, all you have to do is mail your ballot back in the return envelope provided for you by your state.
The process of requesting an absentee is actually fairly simple. There are several websites that will help you request an absentee ballot from your home state.
Student Voting Guide 2016
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Important Dates
It's important to know when election days are! While the presidential election in November is a big deal, state and local elections also matter. It's important to stay involved year round: remember, political change starts from the local grassroots level and works its way up to a national stage!
You can sign up for election reminders here.
Regardless of who you plan to vote for this November, recognize the importance of this election. If you have the right to vote, use it! There are millions of people in America who won't be able to vote this November for various reasons. Don't waste your opportunity to make a difference, and guide the future of our country.
Your voice matters. Your vote matters.
