What is the Census?

According to the Constitution, the population of the United States must be counted every ten years. Every person is thus required by law to complete a Census form. People from many walks of life also use Census data to advocate for causes, rescue disaster victims, prevent diseases, research markets, locate pools of skilled workers, and more.

Can my parents fill out the Census for me at home?

No. By law, students living at college in the Spring must fill out forms where they attend college. Technically, you must fill out a Census form where you were in residence on April 1, 2010.

But I’m registered to vote, file my taxes, have my driver’s license from, etc. the place where my parents live.

Census data is not shared with and is completely separate from all other government services, including voter registration, taxes, drivers licenses, etc. If you attend Yale in the Spring of 2010 you must fill out your Census form in New Haven. This will have no impact on any other government service or program in which you participate.

Why is the Census important?

Because most government programs are funded on the basis of population, your completion of a Census form will bring over $9,000 dollars in federal funding to New Haven. Filling out a Census form is one of the most important things you can do for New Haven.

Okay. How do I participate?

If you are an undergraduate and live on campus, you must go to your residential college Master’s office on Census day - Tuesday, April 6. Your Master will send you more instructions shortly. If you are a graduate student living on campus, you must go to your dormitory on Tuesday, April 6 to complete your Census form.

I live off campus. What do I do?

The U.S. Census Bureau will mail you a form or come to your door, just as with any household in the U.S.

I’m busy. How long does it take?

7 questions = 60 seconds = $9,000 for the City of New Haven.

What happens if I don’t fill it out?

We hope that you understand how important it is for the community that you fill out the Census. You will have ample opportunity to ask questions by e-mailing census@yale.edu. We will be very happy to address any concern that you may have. Under U.S. law, you may also be fined up to $5,000 if you do not complete a Census form.

I’m an international student. Do I need to complete the Census?

Yes. Under United States law, every person who is living in the U.S. on Census day must complete the Census, regardless of their immigration status. The Census is completely confidential and will not in any way impact your legal status.

   If you have any further questions, just e-mail census@yale.edu.