Voting Resources
Voting is one important aspect of becoming an actively engaged citizen. At Simmons University, we encourage the members of our community to be involved in civic life, including voting in elections, if they are eligible.
Important Dates and Deadlines for the 2024 Presidential Election | |
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October 26 | Voter Registration Deadline for November Elections in Massachusetts |
October 29 | Last Day to request a mail-in ballot in Massachusetts |
November 5 | Election Day |
The Voting Process
If you have any questions about voting or ways to get involved reach out to [email protected].
College students can register to vote in the state where they go to school or where they are from, but can only be registered in one state. If you want to register in Massachusetts but are from a different state use your Simmons Address when you register to vote.
- If you are a Massachusetts resident and a U.S. citizen, you can register to vote online, by mail, or in person.
- If you are not a Massachusetts resident but would like to register to vote in Massachusetts
- You can register to vote online in Massachusetts if you have a Massachusetts State ID.
- To register to vote without an ID, fill out the Mail-In Application and send the form to your local election office. For Boston residents mail the signed application to Elections Department One City Hall Square, Room 241 Boston, MA 02201
- Registration methods and requirements vary by state: Register to Vote Nationally
You will automatically be registered to vote in Massachusetts if you do any of the following, but be sure to check your registration status to ensure that the automatic registration went through:
- Apply for or renew your driver’s license at the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV).
- Apply for or renew a learner's permit.
- Apply for or renew a state ID.
- Apply for MassHealth benefits online, in person, or by phone.
- Apply for health insurance through the Commonwealth Health Connector.
- If you registered in Massachusetts you can check your voter registration status online using the Massachusetts voter registration portal.
- For other states use All-In’s voting tool to check your registration status.
- Visit the Massachusetts voting website to view a sample Massachusetts ballot.
- If you are voting outside of Massachusetts, you can look up your ballot on Ballotpedia.
Even though this year is a presidential election, remember to keep yourself informed on local elections and ballot initiatives. Often we have a greater impact on our local elections and feel the impact of local politics every day. Some local elections will be decided by just five votes - make your voice in your community heard!
Studies have shown that those with a plan to vote are more likely to. Think about how you will vote. How are you getting to the polls, if you are voting in person? When are you sending in your ballot, if you are voting by mail? Mark your calendars for election day and consider what voting method works best for you and your schedule. Use our plan to vote form to make a plan and have a copy sent right to your inbox.
You can choose to vote by mail or in person. Be sure to indicate your vote for every question on your ballot.
Voting by Mail
- All states will mail voters absentee ballots if conditions are met, deadlines and requirements vary by state.
- All registered voters in Massachusetts can vote by mail without an excuse.
- Learn about Absentee Ballots in your State
- Request your Mail-In Ballot
Voting in Person
On election day you can vote at your local polling place. Make sure to look up the hours and location in advance. Massachusetts has early voting and no-excuse vote by mail for those who cannot make it to the polls on election day.
There is a polling location at Simmons at Lefavour Hall, Kotzen Room E-001/E-002. If you are registered using your using the Simmons residence hall address, this is your polling place.
Make sure to bring proper ID to the polling location. ID requirements vary by state.
Check voting ID requirements for any state
Voting from Abroad
All US citizens eligible to vote can, even when abroad. Use Vote from Abroad’s tool to get more information about voting from abroad in your state. Make sure to request your ballot early, global mailing times vary.
Voting and Accessibility
The American Association of People with Disabilities has created voting guides containing accessibility information for all 50 states.
Voting Resources for Trans and Non-Binary Voters
Anyone eligible to vote can regardless of race, gender, or sexuality. That doesn’t mean, however, that it's easy for everyone to vote. Some states have strict voter ID laws that can affect trans and non-binary voters. Headcount and VoteRiders have created a guide for trans and non-binary voters to make sure they have the tools they need to vote and have their voices heard!
For free Voter-ID help call or text 866-ID-2-VOTE
Voting Resources for Faculty
“Strategies to Support Challenging Conversations in the Classroom” (University of Minnesota)
Teaching During Turbulent Times (Northwestern)
Teaching Around the Election: Flexibility, Acknowledgement, and Other Strategies (Georgetown)
Civic Literacy
Elections can be overwhelming, especially with the spread of misinformation. Join Professor of Library Science Laura Saunders as she discusses ways to combat false information and develop a healthy relationship with the news.
Developing a Healthy News Diet
Fact Checking Like a Pro
Sift-ing for Facts
Contact Us
Center for Community Engagement and Social Justice
The Stephen D. London Center for Community Engagement and Social Justice facilitates and promotes community-based learning and develops strategic partnerships to advance learning, promote civic engagement, and enhance community leadership in order to create a more just society.