As the 2024 election approaches, college students in Ohio face important decisions about where and how to vote, depending on whether they are attending school in-state or out-of-state. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the process.
Voting Scenarios for Ohio College Students
1. Voting While Attending an In-State College: If you’re attending college within Ohio but in a different city from your home address, you can choose to vote using either your home address or your school address. To vote using your school address, ensure you meet Ohio’s 30-day residency requirement and register using the street address of your college residence, not your campus mailbox. If you prefer to keep your registration at your home address, you can request an absentee ballot to vote by mail.
2. Voting While Attending an Out-of-State College: If you are attending an out-of-state college, you have two options: maintain your voter registration in Ohio and vote by mail, or register to vote in the state where your college is located. Remember, you can only vote in one state for a single election. Consider which state your vote will have the most impact, especially if your college is in a swing state like Michigan, Pennsylvania, or Wisconsin. Be sure to check the registration deadlines and absentee voting rules for both states.
3. Voting While Commuting Locally: If you’re attending a local college and commuting from home, voting should be straightforward. You can vote in person on Election Day or take advantage of early voting options. If you prefer to vote by mail, apply for an absentee ballot in advance.
Key Deadlines for Ohio Voters in 2024
- Voter Registration Deadline: October 7, 2024. Ohio’s registration deadline is 30 days before the election.
- Early In-Person Voting Begins: October 8, 2024.
- Absentee Ballot Application Deadline: October 29, 2024. Applications must be received by this date.
- Absentee Ballots Postmark Deadline: November 4, 2024. Make sure your ballot is postmarked by this date to be counted.
- Election Day: November 5, 2024. Polls will be open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Considerations for Absentee Voting
When voting by mail, consider the time it takes for ballots to be sent and returned, especially if you’re out of state. Apply for your absentee ballot as early as possible, and factor in mailing times to ensure your vote is counted. If you’re voting from out of state, make sure to comply with both Ohio’s deadlines and the deadlines of your college state.
For further details on voter registration, deadlines, and absentee voting in other states, visit iwillvote.com or vote.org.
By planning ahead and understanding your options, you can ensure your voice is heard in the 2024 election, no matter where you are studying.
