Your Vote, Your Voice: A Guide to Voting in NYC

Whether you're voting for the first time or have participated in elections for years, making your voice heard starts with knowing where to go and what resources are available. Depending on where you live, this election will determine governor and lieutenant governor, state senator, state comptroller, attorney general, U.S. House representative, and more.

With Election Day approaching on Tuesday, November 3, here's what you should know before heading to the polls!

Know Your Registration Status

Before making a plan to vote, check that you're registered and confirm your current registration address. You can do so through the New York State voter lookup tool.

If you're a U.S. citizen attending college away from home, you may have the option to vote in your home state or register at your college address, depending on residency requirements. You can only vote in one location per election. If you're already registered in another state, be sure to review its voting requirements and absentee ballot deadlines.

Columbia University also contracts with TurboVote, an online platform that helps residents from all 50 states register to vote, request a mail-in ballot, and sign up for election reminders.

Note: The New York registration deadline for the November 3, 2026, general election was October 24. If you missed it, you can still register for future elections.

Know When and Where to Vote

Election Day is Tuesday, November 3! Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. and if you're registered in NYC, you can take advantage of early voting, which runs until this Sunday, November 1.

Your early voting location may differ from your Election Day polling place, so be sure to look up your assigned polling location before heading out.

Explore Your Voting Options

Can't make it to the polls? New York offers early mail voting for any registered voter, as well as absentee voting for those who qualify. If you're registered in NYC and need a mail ballot, visit the NYC Board of Elections for application and return instructions.

Note: The last day to apply online was October 24, 2026. You may still apply in person at your county board of elections through November 2, 2026.

Get Informed Before You Vote

Not sure what's on your ballot? Take some time to research the candidates and issues you'll be voting on. The New York State Board of Elections and NYC Board of Elections are useful starting points for election information, voter resources, and official updates.

You can also review a sample ballot ahead of time to get a better idea! 

While your schedule may be full of classes, extracurriculars, and everything in between, staying informed and making a plan to vote doesn't have to be complicated! A little preparation can go a long way toward making your voice heard.

Looking for more information or other resources to help your voting plan? Check out our CU Engage page for more information, and be sure to read Columbia Neighbors’ recent November 3 General Election guide.

If you’re ineligible to vote or an international student, there are many ways you can still practice civic engagement. You can volunteer, practice advocacy for an issue you believe in, and follow local, national, and international news. See our CU Engage page for more.