Students Count in the 2010 Census
Counting every person in America is no easy feat. That’s why the U.S. Census Bureau needs your help.
This month, every household will receive a census form. The census is a count of everyone in the United States, including citizens, non-U.S. students, and international students. The data determines a state’s number of seats in the House of Representatives and guides the distribution of $400 billion to state, local and tribal governments.
To ensure an accurate count, it’s important that everyone fills it out – including college students. Consider this:
- Census data determine college and university tuition grant and loan programs.
- Businesses use census data to determine recruitment efforts, to locate retail stores, new housing and other facilities.
- Scientific research depends on census data. College and university students and faculty use census information for reports, statistical profiles and other research.
- Student participation in the census will help Minnesota keep its eight congressional seats in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Depending on your living situation, here’s how you’ll be counted:
- Living on campus: If you live in a dormitory, residence hall, sorority or fraternity house, you’ll receive a 2010 Census form in April or May 2010 for you to fill out individually. No need to mail the form. Simply complete it and turn it in to a designated site on campus. It’s that easy.
- Living off campus: If you live off campus, 2010 Census forms will be delivered or mailed to your house or apartment in March 2010. All students living at the address are considered one household, so only one form should be completed per domicile with information about all the people living at that address. Return the form in the U.S. mail envelope provided.
- Living with parents or guardians: If you commute to school and reside full-time at your parents’ or guardians’ household, no need to fill out a form. You should be accounted for on your parents’ or guardians’ household form.
- Studying abroad in April 2010: If students are studying or living abroad in the spring of 2010 and not in the United States on April 1, 2010, they will not be counted in the 2010 Census. Census Day, April 1, 2010, is the official day of the population’s count when all 2010 Census responses should represent the household as it exists on this day.
It’s easy: With only 10 questions, the 2010 Census is the shortest form in history. It only takes 10 minutes to complete.
It’s important: Census information helps determine school grant and loan programs, locations for new schools, roads and hospitals, and provides important data for research conducted by students and faculty.
It’s confidential: By law, the Census Bureau cannot share respondents’ answers with anyone, including other federal agencies and law enforcement entities. The penalty for lawful disclosure is up to $250,000 or imprisonment of up to five years or both.
For more information, visit www.2010census.gov or www.mn2010census.gov