StudentID

A student ID is a unique identifier assigned by an educational institution to individuals enrolled or seeking enrollment. It may be issued as a card or stored digitally and is used to identify a student within the institution's information systems, records, and services.

Student IDs serve multiple purposes: verification of identity, access to academic records, class registration, library services, campus facilities, meal plans, housing, exams, and online portals. The ID often appears as a number or alphanumeric code and is sometimes linked to a username or email address.

Issuance and management: Typically issued after enrollment or application, sometimes requiring picture ID and a photo for a card. The number may be generated by the institution and remains constant through enrollment. Cards may include a barcode or magnetic stripe and may be replaced if lost. Some systems use a separate login credential alongside the ID.

Security and privacy: The student ID is sensitive personal information. It should be protected to prevent identity theft or unauthorized access to records. Institutions implement access controls and privacy policies under applicable laws (for example FERPA in the United States, GDPR in the EU). Lost IDs should be reported and cards deactivated or replaced.

Variations and scope: Practices vary by country and institution. Some use a single ID for many services; others separate numbers for academics, library, and campus life. In some contexts, 'student ID' also refers to a physical identification card used for entry to campus facilities.