Just because you are studying abroad, doesn’t mean you can’t and shouldn’t vote. If you are going to be studying abroad during the election, you can vote by absentee ballot! And it couldn’t be easier.

Here are the steps to vote in the US elections while studying abroad:

*This is for US citizens only*

Step 1: Register to Vote

Register to vote in your state, check if you are registered, and/or update your registration.

Remember: Not every state has online voter registration so if your state requires you to register in person, make sure you do so before you head abroad!

Pro Tip: Include your email address and ask for an electronic ballot if your registered state allows.

You are able to vote if you are:

• You are a US Citizen
• Meet your state’s residency requirements
• Are 18 years old on or before Election Day
• Are registered to vote

You can learn more on who can and cannot vote here

You can register to vote here

Step 2: Request an Absentee Ballot

The absolute best way to vote while you are abroad is to do so by absentee ballot. That way you can complete it and mail it in before to Election Day. Some states do require you to mail in a request for an absentee ballot.

Make sure you find out the Election Dates and Deadlines. This will allow you to know when you need to send in your ballot and what dates they need to be returned by. Make sure you mail it out, no later than 1 week before the Absentee Ballot Deadline

You can request an absentee ballot here

45 days before the November elections, you will get a blank ballot – either electronically or via mail.

Step 3: Vote From Abroad

Once you receive your ballot, you can complete it and mail it back in.

If you do need any help filling out your ballot, contact or take a trip to your local US Consulate or Embassy.

There are many options on how to mail in your ballot: local mail, US Embassy Diplomatic Pouch, Fax, Email, Electronically, or by Express Courier Service.

For information regarding your specific state, visit the Federal Voting Assistance Program’s Voting Assistance Guide or the Overseas Vote Foundation website. The Overseas Vote Foundation is a non-partisan voter advocacy organization.

For more information, you can learn more from Travel.State.Gov or from The US Embassy in Italy.

Written by: Katie Chappelle, SAI Programs Digital Marketing & Social Media