The Census is an official count of every person who lives in the United States and its territories. It takes place every 10 years. Data collected in the Census may include information about age, gender, and living arrangements. You can view the questions that will be on the 2020 Census at: https://2020census.gov/en/about-questions.html. 

Census data informs federal funding for many programs and services that you use in the community. Approximately $675 billion dollars in federal funds is distributed based on information collected in the Census. These funds support community needs, such as schools, transportation, housing, health clinics, libraries, and more. By completing the Census, you fulfill your civic duty and help your community get the funding that it needs to support its population.  Census counts are also used to redraw legislative districts and determine the number of seats your state has in the U.S. House of Representatives. 

As a college student, it's important to note that Census data also informs the following funding:

• Federal student loans and grants
• Federal research funds
• Campus improvement funds
• Future career opportunities, as many professions rely heavily on federal funding
  

Yes! The U.S. Census Bureau identifies college students as one of the most difficult populations to count.  You should be counted where you live or sleep most of the time. Examples:

• If you live in an apartment or temporary housing away from your parents most of the year, then you should be counted at your apartment or temporary housing location.
• If you are an international student who lives in and attends college in the United States, then you should be counted at the residence you are staying at in the U.S.

Note: An American student who is living and attending college outside of the United States most of the year would not be counted in the Census. 

Are you looking for additional information about the Census? Here are some resources to check out: