If you plan to vote absentee by mail, be sure to request your ballot early.
In Madison, the recommendation is to request your ballot at least two weeks before Election Day.
How do I vote absentee by mail?
Step 1: Request an absentee ballot
Request your absentee ballot early!
Online: Visit myvote.wi.gov.
By mail: Download the Application For Absentee Ballot from the Wisconsin Elections Commission.
Step 2: Complete your absentee ballot and have a witness
First, find a friend, family member or neighbor who can verify that you filled out your own ballot. Make sure that they are an adult U.S. citizen who is not a candidate for office in the upcoming election.
Next, carefully complete your ballot. You do not have to show your witness the contents of your selections!
Once you’re done, place your ballot in the certified envelope. Seal and sign the envelope.
Make sure your witness adds their full address and signature, too.
If you make a mistake or change your mind about a selection, contact your municipal clerk’s office for help.
The Madison City Clerk’s Office has tips for making sure your absentee ballot counts.
Step 3: Return your absentee ballot
When you receive your ballot, fill it out and return it back as soon as possible.
If you’re voting in Madison, you can consult the City of Madison Clerk’s list of ballot drop-off locations, or you can return it by mail.
The U.S. Postal Service recommends mailing it at least one week in advance of Election Day.
I'm studying abroad. Can I vote absentee?
Yes! Study abroad students should plan ahead to vote absentee.
Please note all deadlines so that you can get your absentee ballot submitted in time.
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Be sure to register to vote well in advance and have access to valid photo ID.
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The State of Wisconsin considers study abroad students to be “Temporary Overseas Citizens” and provides additional guidance at MyVote Wisconsin. The process is very similar to voting absentee by mail, but you should be sure to note deadlines and budget extra time for requesting, receiving, and mailing your ballot.
- The Madison City Clerk’s Office has tips for making sure your Wisconsin absentee ballot counts.
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If you’re not a Wisconsin voter, contact your local election officials to register and to request your absentee ballot. Check out the Federal Voting Assistance Program’s (FVAP) Voting Assistance Guide for more information.
The BadgersVote Coalition is a non-partisan, educational initiative of the University of Wisconsin–Madison, whose mission is to equip students with the knowledge and resources necessary to be active participants in democracy.
For more information on Wisconsin elections and voting, visit the Wisconsin Elections Commission.