International Students And Voting: Who Can Participate?

International students in the United States cannot vote in the general elections. However, they are eligible to vote in elections for student governments at some universities. International students with sensitive immigration status should be cautious about off-campus engagement activities that require registration with identification documentation. They can participate in other ways, such as educating themselves about the U.S. election systems, learning about the issues and candidates, and reminding their friends who can vote to exercise their franchise.

Can an international student vote?

International students cannot vote in US general elections

International students are not eligible to vote in US general elections. Only US citizens are permitted to vote in these elections, which means that most international students are unable to do so. However, there are other ways for international students to get involved in the electoral process and US politics. For example, international students can familiarise themselves with campus-based voting initiatives and encourage their US friends to vote. They can also attend events and talks on campus to learn about the different candidates and how their policies might affect them as students.

It is important to note that while international students cannot vote in US general elections, they may be eligible to vote in elections for student government or campus organisations. These elections provide an opportunity for international students to have a say in the activities, policies, and climate of their university. Additionally, international students can run for elected positions within these student organisations, allowing them to actively shape the university's environment.

To deepen their understanding of US politics and culture, international students can educate themselves about the US election system, the purpose of general elections, and the significance of voting in US democracy. They can also connect with their American peers by sharing information about the leadership selection process in their home countries. By engaging in conversations about the election, international students can gain valuable insights into the issues that affect higher education and international students specifically.

While international students may not have the right to vote in US general elections, they can still make their voices heard by getting involved in community-engaged learning programs, on-and-off-campus offerings, and democratic processes within their schools or communities. Additionally, they can encourage their student peers, friends, and family members who are eligible to register and vote. By staying informed and actively participating in these alternative ways, international students can still contribute to the democratic process and make a positive impact during the election season.

International students can vote in student government elections

International students in the United States cannot vote in national elections, as this right is reserved for US citizens only. However, international students can vote in student government elections at their respective universities. For instance, international students at the University of Michigan can vote in elections for the Central Student Government and Rackham Student Government. Similarly, international students at the University of South Florida (USF) are eligible to vote in elections for student government.

USF actively encourages international students to be civically engaged and get involved in community-engaged learning programs, on-and-off-campus offerings, and democratic processes in the school community. The University of Michigan also encourages international students to get involved in campus-based voting efforts, such as the Big Ten Voting Challenge.

By participating in student government elections, international students can influence the activities, policies, and climate at their university. They can also run for office within student organizations and play a role in shaping university life.

While international students cannot vote in national elections, they can still engage with the political process in other ways. For example, they can educate themselves about the US election system, learn about the candidates and ballot issues, and remind their friends who are eligible to vote to cast their ballots. International students can also join politically-oriented student organizations on campus and participate in on-campus conversations about the election to deepen their understanding of US politics and culture.

International students can run for campus office

International students in the United States on an F-1 visa are generally allowed to work on campus. This includes working up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and up to 40 hours per week during academic breaks, such as summer, winter, and spring breaks. This flexibility in work hours during breaks provides international students with an opportunity to gain valuable experience and contribute more extensively to campus life.

To run for campus office, international students should consult their institution's international student services office. This office can provide guidance on eligibility requirements, immigration regulations, and any specific rules pertaining to on-campus employment. Additionally, international students can explore campus resources like career services, which can assist with resume preparation, application processes, and interview skills development.

It is advisable for international students to start their research early and be well-informed about the requirements and procedures. They can also leverage university-specific job platforms, career centers, networking events, and job fairs to explore opportunities for campus leadership roles. By actively seeking information and utilizing the available resources, international students can effectively navigate the process of running for campus office and contribute their unique perspectives to student governance.

International students can volunteer for campaigns or political parties

International students in the US cannot vote in general elections, as this is limited to US citizens. However, international students can still participate in other ways. One way to get involved is to volunteer for campaigns or political parties. According to the US Federal Elections Commission, foreign nationals cannot make campaign contributions or expenditures, but they can serve as uncompensated volunteers for a campaign or political party. This means that international students can attend campaign strategy meetings and events but cannot be involved in the management of the committee.

International students at St. Olaf College, for example, are required to maintain their F-1 status while in the US. To do this, they must be enrolled full-time, make progress towards their degree, and follow all F-1 rules and regulations. F-1 students do not need employment authorization to volunteer if they are not being paid and are performing services for a non-profit organization for public service, religious, or humanitarian objectives. However, it is important for international students to be cautious about their immigration status and understand the regulations and risks involved in off-campus activities.

There are also other ways for international students to get involved in the political process. For example, students can educate themselves about the US election system, the timeline of elections, and why voting is essential to US democracy. They can seek out legitimate, non-partisan news sources and engage in conversations with classmates and friends about their views on candidates and issues. Additionally, international students can get involved in on-campus politically oriented student organizations and encourage their peers to register to vote.

At the University of Michigan, there are resources available for international students to learn more about the US political system and get engaged during the electoral season. For instance, international students can get to know the candidates in Michigan and ballot issues by visiting candidate websites and general sites. They can also connect with their American peers by sharing information about elections and leadership selection processes in their home countries.

While international students may not be able to vote in general elections, there are still many opportunities to participate in the political process, gain a deeper understanding of US politics and culture, and make their voices heard.

International students can encourage others to vote

International students in the US cannot vote in general elections, as this is limited to US citizens. However, international students can still participate in other ways and encourage others to vote.

Firstly, international students can familiarise themselves with the US political system and the election process. They can learn about the candidates, their policies, and the issues at stake. By doing so, they can engage in meaningful conversations with their peers and remind their friends, classmates, and family members who are eligible to vote to do so. They can also educate themselves on the US election system, the purpose of general elections, and the importance of voting in a democracy.

Secondly, international students can get involved in campus-based initiatives and student organisations. Many universities have resources and programs dedicated to promoting political engagement among students, such as the UMICH Votes website and the Big Ten Voting Challenge. They can also join politically-oriented student groups, run for positions within these organisations, and vote in student elections, which directly impact university policies and the campus climate.

Thirdly, international students can connect with their home country's political processes and share this knowledge with their American peers. They can explain the leadership selection process, the duration of terms, and the systems of government in their country. This not only helps international students learn about the US political system but also contributes to their peers' understanding of politics and leadership worldwide.

Lastly, international students with sensitive immigration statuses should be cautious about off-campus engagement activities. While they cannot make campaign contributions, they can volunteer for a campaign or political party as long as it is an uncompensated position and they do not serve in a decision-making capacity. International students can discuss these opportunities with the relevant university departments to ensure they comply with regulations and avoid any risks.

By actively engaging in these activities, international students can encourage others to vote and play a valuable role in promoting political participation and civic engagement within their communities.

Frequently asked questions