How New Jersey College Students Can Register to Vote and Why It Matters

With the 2024 elections approaching, Montclair State University and colleges across New Jersey are stepping up efforts to get students registered and committed to voting. Through non-partisan voter registration events and engagement competitions like the Ballot Bowl, students are encouraged to take part in civic engagement and make their voices heard.

These efforts are crucial. The 18 to 29-year-old age group is one of the fastest-growing voting blocs in the country. Younger voters had a notable impact in recent elections, with over 50% of those aged 18 to 29 turning out to vote in the 2020 presidential election, according to the U.S. Elections Project.

“I look back to 2020 when New Jersey led the nation in youth voter turnout,” said Lieutenant Governor Tahesha L. Way. “The goal is not only to match that turnout, but to surpass those numbers.”

Way was speaking during the Ballot Bowl contest launch, held on September 16 at William Paterson University to tap into the competitive spirit of New Jersey’s colleges and universities. Campuses compete to register the most voters and secure voting pledges for Election Day.

Playfully dancing with college mascots, including Montclair’s Rocky and Roxy, and Bloomfield College’s Deacon the Bear, Way added, “More importantly, we want to ensure that college students understand their power to influence society by making their voices heard.”

The Ballot Bowl launch coincided with National Voter Registration Day, where a giant patriotic slide, music and games on Montclair’s campus attracted hundreds of students to register and pledge to vote. Assemblyman Al Barlas (R-District 40) and Assemblywoman Andrea Katz (D-District 8) talked with students on the importance of voting.

“We aim to empower every student to have a voice,” said Montclair President Jonathan Koppell. “This isn’t just about voter registration; it’s about shaping the future of our communities, state and country.”

Montclair Campus ‘Focused’ on Election 2024

Montclair’s student media outlets are also supporting the initiative. Students are covering issues that resonate with Gen Z voters, such as climate change, student debt and reproductive rights as part of their #FOCUS Democracy: Our Election series to stream on Hawk+.

Many Montclair students are also volunteering and interning for various candidates in the field.

Beyond voter registration, Montclair_Votes aims to foster nonpartisan discussions. “The challenge with elections is that you’re either engaged or you’re not,” says Warren Rigby ’23, ’24 MA, coordinator for Montclair’s Office of Civic and Voter Engagement, which sponsors the Montclair_Votes events. “My role is to spark conversations about why some students don’t feel confident enough to make an informed voting decision.”

Rigby also stresses the importance of creating a voting plan, whether that means voting by mail, participating in early voting or showing up at the polls on Election Day. 

Montclair spans two congressional districts, which can be confusing for students living on campus who choose to vote locally. To address this, Rigby’s office will provide detailed information about polling locations, ballot options and voting procedures based on each student’s residence. Insight into Diversity highlighted Montclair among colleges that have earned the Voter Friendly Campus designation.

How Do I Register to Vote?

Montclair uses an online voter registration system that makes it easier than ever to get registered. Register before the deadline of Tuesday, October 15.

The “Last Chance Voter Registration” event will be held on Monday, October 14 and will be your last chance to make sure your voice is heard in the general election on Tuesday, November 5.

Not Sure Where You Are Registered?

Visit the Andrew Goodman Foundation website to find out what address you are registered with and where your ballot will be mailed. If it turns out you are registered at your home address and you live on campus, you can either update your voter registration to Montclair, Bloomfield or plan a trip home before Election Day.

How Do I Vote by Mail?

Any registered voter may apply for vote-by-mail by completing the Application for Vote-By-Mail Ballot and returning the application to their County Clerk and should be received sometime in early to mid-October.

If you would like to receive your ballot by mail, you must request your ballot at least seven (7) days before the election. Once you receive your ballot, fill it out according to the instructions and mail it in. The ballots will have free postage and must be postmarked by Tuesday, November 3 and received by the Board of Elections by Tuesday, November 10 for your vote to count.

What Should I Do if I’m Studying Abroad During Election Season?

To request a ballot from overseas, visit the Federal Voter Assistance Program, a U.S. government website for overseas American military and citizen voters.

What If I’m Not Eligible to Vote?

Even if you’re not eligible to vote, it’s important to stay informed about the issues that affect you as a student. Engage in conversations with friends to help make voting and civil discourse a regular part of your life.

Montclair is now part of Unify America, a nonpartisan organization that brings together college students with different perspectives to foster civil and productive discussions. By joining, you can take part in meaningful conversations. Sign up for Unify America to participate in these critical discussions.

Learn more about voting as a college student with the vote.gov guide.

Learn more about civic issues and voter registration by following Montclair_Votes on Instagram.

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