The 2024 presidential election is fast approaching, which means now is the time to prepare to vote. 

If you haven’t already registered to vote, you’ll need to do so. Where you register is based on your address. This can be your current address on or around campus or your permanent address.

As a college student who may move frequently, it will take a little effort to plan where you want to register and where or how you plan to cast your vote.

We’re here to help you figure it all out by answering burning questions you may have.

I have to ask: Why should I vote? 
Although you are not required to vote by law in the U.S., voting is a very important part of any democracy. By casting your vote for the leaders you feel best represent your ideas and interests, you ensure that your voice is heard. When thinking about different political decisions that have directly impacted you, you’ll likely come up with good reasons to vote.

Why register? 
You can’t vote if you’re not registered. Registering is easy and only takes about two minutes. You can register here. 

I’m living in Philly now, but my hometown is elsewhere. How do I know where I should register? 
This is a common question for college students. As a Pennsylvania college student, you have many options to vote, including registering where you live while attending college in Pennsylvania. Not attending school in Pennsylvania? Visit the Campus Vote Project’s state student voting guide. Keep in mind that the deadlines and options are different depending on your state.

What information do I need to register? 
Pretty much the basics, like your name and address. The only info that may be tricky for some is your driver’s license number—make sure you have that on hand. If you don’t have a license, the last four digits of your social security number also work.

What is the deadline for registering? 
That depends on the state you register to vote in. Different states have different deadlines. The deadline for registering in Pennsylvania for the November 2024 general election is Oct. 21, 2024. You can find your state’s deadline in the state-by-state voting guide. 

I think I already registered. Is there a way to check? 
You can confirm your registration status here.

I’m registered to vote at my Temple address. How do I find my polling place? 
There are several polling locations within walking distance of campus, but the one you go to is determined by your address at the time of registration. Type in your address to find your polling place. On Election Day, that’s where you go to vote.

I’ve heard a lot about voting by mail. Can I do that? 
Many states are allowing voters to mail in their ballots in advance of Election Day. Your state may require you to have a valid excuse to vote by mail, such as being unable to get to your polling place due to illness, injury or disability, or being an out-of-state college student. Acceptable excuses vary by state, as do the deadlines by which you need to apply for a mail-in ballot.

All Pennsylvania voters can vote by mail. The 2024 deadline to apply for a mail-in ballot in Pennsylvania is Oct. 29, but we recommend doing it earlier. Your completed ballot must be received by 8 p.m. on Election Day. It can be returned by mail or in person at your County Election Office. Find out about your state’s requirements and deadlines.

I’m an international student and I’m not eligible to vote. How can I get involved?   
Learn more about the process and encourage your friends to vote. You can also let them know about issues that are important to you.

For more information, visit Temple Votes. Happy registering!