How are college/university students living on campus counted by the Census Bureau?

If you live in a dormitory, residence hall, sorority or fraternity house, notices will be mailed to you that will provide three options for self-responding; electronically by the Internet, or calling in by phone, or by mailing in a paper form.

How are students living in off-campus housing counted by the Census Bureau?

A 2020 Census notice will be delivered or mailed to your house or apartment in March 2020. All students living at the address are considered one household, so only one form should be completed that includes information about all the people living at that address. Return the form in the U.S. mail envelope provided.

How are students who live with parents or guardians counted by the Census Bureau?

If you commute to school and reside full-time at your parents’ or guardians’ household, you should be accounted for on your parents’ or guardians’ household form.

What if I am an international student or not a U.S. citizen? Do I participate in the 2020 Census?

Yes. Everyone in the United States must be counted. This includes people of all ages, races, ethnic groups, citizens and noncitizens.

I will be studying abroad during the 2020 spring semester. How do I participate in the 2020 Census?

The 2020 Census is a count of everyone in the United States on April 1, 2020. If you are studying or living abroad at this time, you will not be counted in the 2020 Census.

Will the Census Bureau share my information with anyone?

No. By law, the Census Bureau cannot share respondents’ answers with anyone, including other federal agencies and law enforcement entities. All Census Bureau employees take an oath of nondisclosure and are sworn for life to protect the confidentiality of the data. The penalty for unlawful disclosure is a fine of up to $250,000 or imprisonment of up to five years, or both.

How can I get involved with the 2020 Census?

There are numerous ways to get involved. Participate in on-campus activities, spread the word about the 2020 Census or pursue a temporary census job.

Are there temporary 2020 job opportunities?

The Census Bureau is hiring more than a million employees to help execute the 2020 Census. A variety of temporary jobs, which are perfect for college students, are available. Census jobs pay competitive wages based on current pay rates in your area. For information about census jobs, visit 2020census.gov/jobs.