#fordschoolvotes
Vote early or on election day
In our community dedicated to the public good, we believe that participating in democracy is an irreplaceable way to strengthen it. We welcome everyone in our community into that work, and we strongly encourage all eligible citizens to vote in the upcoming election, and in all elections.
Particularly amid the pandemic, public health and election officials highly recommend that voters cast their ballots early or by absentee/mail. Those casting their ballots in person on election day should follow public health guidance, including wearing masks and maintaining at least 6 feet of distance from others inside polling locations.

Michigan voter checklist and deadlines
Voting in Ann Arbor
If you're voting in Ann Arbor, the easiest thing to do is to go to the Ann Arbor City Clerk's office, where you can register, request a ballot, fill it out, and submit it all at the same time.
Registration
You can still register to vote in Michigan up to and including election day in person at your local clerk's office with proof of residency.
Absentee voting
Requesting your ballot from your local clerk
If you're requesting an absentee/mail-in ballot, do it as soon as you can. You can request one online with a Michigan driver's license, or fill out a form and email it back to your local clerk. If you're mailing in the request, be sure it will be received by the deadline for that election—it is best to request your ballot as early as possible. You can request an absentee ballot in person at your local clerk's office 4:00pm the day before the election.
Returning your absentee ballot
Return your absentee ballot as soon as possible. The easiest thing to do is to drop it off with your local clerk or in an official ballot drop box by 8:00 pm on election day. If you're mailing it in, the Michigan Secretary of State strongly recommends mailing your ballot at least two weeks ahead, and it must be postmarked by the day before the election.
In person at your polling place
The polls are open from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm for all Michigan elections. Find your polling location →
Resources for registering and voting
From registration to submitting your vote, knowing the election process in your state and making a specific plan to cast your ballot are important steps that'll make your voice heard. As you look at your voting checklist above, here are the places that'll help you make that happen.
International students
International students, while ineligible to vote in U.S. elections, so enrich our community and contribute to democracy here and abroad. We welcome all our students in efforts to register voters, educate themselves and others on election topics, and advocate for issues that are important to them.
- Understanding the U.S. elections as an international student
Tips from the University of Michigan International Center - Host a SparkVotes Party, part of the Creative Campus Voting Project
- Enter a Democracy Café, part of the Democracy & Debate theme semester
- Serve as a Michigan election worker
- Share your election, debate, or democracy-related, socially-distant activities on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram using #fordschoolvotes
Vote-themed Zoom virtual backgrounds
Promote the vote on your Zoom calls. Remind others to cast their ballots and share that you've voted with one (or all!) of our limited-edition, Ford School-branded Zoom virtual backgrounds.
U-M resources
Voting FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Canvas
Democracy Café directory
Speak. Act. Vote.
Democracy & Debate theme semester
Service opportunities
On campus
Sign up to be an election worker at U-M
Michigan
Sign up to be an election worker in Michigan
Other states
Sign up to work elections in other states
“Remember that none of us are more than caretakers of this great country. Remember that the more freedom you give to others, the more you will have for yourself. Remember that without law there can be no liberty. And remember, as well, the rich treasures you brought from whence you came, and let us share your pride in them.”
President Gerald R. Ford
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Make sure your voice is heard this election! Vote Nov 2, 2020
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#B1GVotes: Unmute yourself and let your voice be heard Oct 26, 2020
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Covering the campaign: A conversation with national political reporters Oct 12, 2020
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Jocelyn Benson and Frank LaRose on Voter Turnout and Access in Ohio and Michigan Oct 9, 2020
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#B1GVotes: Will You Vote? Voter Registration PSA Sep 28, 2020
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A conversation with David Miliband Oct 16, 2020
Have any questions?
