To Register to Vote
Federal law requires that voters be at least 18years of age by the time of the general election and citizens of the United States.  Specific state eligibility requirements and information on registering are available from local election boards.

In New York

For New York City residents:
New York City Board of Elections
DORM RESIDENTS:  Be sure to use the postal address of your dorm building as your home address, not your campus mail box (see www.columbia.edu/about_columbia/map/Addresses.pdf).

“WhosOnTheBallot.org is a quick and easy-to-use website that provides New York City residents with information on polling places, candidates, voter registration and sample ballots.

Others in New York State:
New York State Board of Elections

Not sure if you're registered to vote in new York State? Click HERE to find out your voter registration status!

Residents of Other States
Most states allow voters to submit a National Mail Voter Registration form.  Registration forms, state requirements and information on candidates and issues are available from a number of sites, including  Congress.org 

For a state by state listing of voter registration deadlines and requirements for both primary and general elections, please go to Project Vote Smart and select your home state from the voter registration drop down menu.

Absentee Ballots & Early Voting
Students living away from home can register either at their home or school address, depending on state law.  If you have already registered at home, and you want to register at your school address, you must fill out a local registration form and make note that it is a change of address.  It is important to update your registration each time you move.

If you are registered at your home address while you're at school, and wish to cast your ballot in your home district, remember to request an absentee ballot at least 30 days before the election. Check with your state election board for the exact deadline.

For information on early voting, please visit Longdistancevoter.org

If you have any questions regarding voter registration, please call the office at 212 854-3117.

General Voter Education

·         League of Women Voters

·         Rock the Vote

·         Federal Election Commission

For those new to the voting process, Columbia Turbo Vote is a tool that makes it easier to register and vote for hometown issues while away at College.