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 applicants are required to authenticate their identity as part of the enrollment process.
In order to be used for identity authentication, government-issued photo identification (i.e., driver's license, passport, permanent resident card, etc.) must be valid and current. Expired identification will not be accepted for authentication. The applicant's full name, date of birth and other directory information must match their student file (as applicable).
To complete authentication, applicants may complete authentication in one of the following ways:
- Photo with ID: Take a photo of themselves (i.e. selfie) holding a valid government-issued photo ID next to their face. The detailed information on their ID must be legible. A close-up image of the same ID must 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 should be used. Do not have any distracting or image-altering accessories (i.e. hats, sunglasses, etc.). Exhibit a neutral facial expression or natural smile. Ensure both eyes are open. Do not digitally alter the photo. All information on ID must be visible and readable.
- 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 applicants 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. applicants with a 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.
Some applicants 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) applicants from all branches are exempt from the authentication policy as they are verified and approved by the US Military. However, veterans, spouses, and dependents of military members need to complete identity authentication as part of enrolling with Columbia College.