There are local council elections taking place in Kent and Medway on 4 May. In order to be eligible to vote you need to be registered by 17 April. The right to vote ensures that your voice is heard in the decisions that affect your life.

Students are able to register to vote at both their home and term-time addresses. If your home and uni address are in two different local authority areas, you can vote in local elections at both. However, in general elections, you’ll only be able to vote in one.

Register to vote

Here are our top reasons why students should register to vote:

  1. You have the power to make a difference
    As a student, you are part of a generation that has the power to shape the future of the country and the local area you study in. The policies that are made today will have a direct impact on your life, and the future of the generations to come. Whatever your views don’t miss out on having your say!

  2. It's your right to vote
    Many people throughout the world are denied the right to vote. We feel that it is important that if you’re able to vote, you exercise that right. By registering to vote, you are fulfilling your civic duty, playing your part in the community and contributing to the functioning of democracy.

  3. You can have a say in issues that matter to you
    By registering to vote, you have the opportunity to have a say in the issues that matter to you. Local councils are responsible for recycling, housing, parking, local events and much more - voting gives you the chance to voice your opinion and make a difference in the policies that are made.

  4. Other benefits from being on the electoral roll
    As well as having your say on a range of local issues if you want to rent, get a mobile contract, or sign up for a credit card, it really helps if you’re on the electoral roll.

  5. It's easy to register to vote
    Registering to vote in the UK is a simple process that can be done online in just a few minutes. All you need is your National Insurance number, date of birth, and address.
Register to vote

How can I register to vote?

You can register to vote online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote.

You must be over 18, a UK or Irish Citizen, a qualifying Commonwealth citizen living in the UK or an EU citizen living in the UK

You will need your National Insurance number - you’ll find it on a payslip, your P60 form, on any letters about your tax, pension or benefits. You can apply for a National Insurance number if you do not have one or find your National Insurance number if you’ve lost it.

Voter ID

Voter ID

From 4 May 2023, voters in England will need to show photo ID to vote at polling stations in some elections. Check out what are the accepted forms of photo ID so you don’t miss out.

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