Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to define the identity authentication process as part of enrollment with Columbia College.
Scope
This policy applies to all students at Columbia College.
Policy
All Columbia College students are required to authenticate their identity as part of the enrollment process.
In order to be used for identity authentication, government-issued photo identification (e.g. driver's license, passport, permanent resident card, etc.) must be valid and current. Expired identification will not be accepted for authentication. The student's full name, date of birth, and other directory information must match their student file (as applicable).
Some students may be exempt from authentication. However, proof of citizenship status (i.e. permanent resident card, naturalized citizen certificate, etc.) is still required for admission review, including applicants who are exempt from authentication. Military service members (active duty, guard, and reserve) from all branches are exempt from the Admissions Authentication Policy as they are verified and approved by the U.S. Military. Veterans, spouses, and dependents of military members, however, still need to complete identity authentication as part of enrolling with Columbia College.
To complete authentication, students must show a government-issued photo identification and verify their identity. Students may complete authentication in one of the following ways:
- Photo with ID: Students can take a photo (i.e. selfie) with their government-issued, photo ID, with their ID next to their face in the photograph. The detailed information on their ID must be legible. It is recommended that in addition to this photo, an image of the ID also be submitted for review. Photos can be submitted to admissions@ccis.edu for verification.
Photo Guidelines: Submit a color photo taken within the last month. Take a clear image of your face. No shadows or filters commonly used on social media should be used. Do not have any distracting or image-altering accessories (i.e. hats, sunglasses, etc.). Exhibit neutral face expression or natural smile. Ensure both eyes are open. Do not digitally alter your photo.
- Video Session: Students not located near a Location may show their government-issued photo ID to their Admissions Counselor, Recruiter, or Advisor in a scheduled video meeting via webcam (i.e. Skype or Zoom).
- At Location: Students with access to a Columbia College Nationwide Location may show their government-issued photo ID to a full-time staff member at their Location.
- Notary Form: A Notary Public will confirm the student's identity by making a copy of the student applicant's government-issued photo ID and providing their signature (and notary stamp as applicable) on the Notary Public ID Authentication Form. The signed and completed form must be submitted to admissions@ccis.edu for verification.
New students with recent changes to their legal name must provide a government-issued photo ID with updated name or provide documentation (i.e. marriage license) to verify their recent name change. Applicants seeking readmission to Columbia College (i.e. student applicants with an existing student record) must also complete the Name Change Request Form with the Office of the Registrar in order to update their student record with Columbia College.