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Identity Verification

OHIO Student Identity Verification for OHIO Online and Regional Campus Students

51ĀŅĀ× is dedicated to creating a secure and trusted environment for every student. Protecting your personal information and ensuring the integrity of our academic systems is a top priority. Identity verification is a critical step in safeguarding your account against unauthorized access and maintaining compliance with federal and institutional standards. In accordance with 51ĀŅĀ×’s Verification of Student Identity policy, identity verification is required before you can enroll in courses, receive financial aid or access University systems. By completing this process, you help us uphold the values of security, privacy and academic integrity that define the OHIO experience.

Beginning with the spring 2026 semester, 51ĀŅĀ× will utilize Stripe for student identity verification with students intending to enroll in OHIO Online or as a degree-seeking student at any of OHIO’s five regional campuses. 

Please note: Some students receiving financial aid may also be required to complete an additional federally-required Identity Verification Process.

Begin your OHIO Student Identity Verification

The OHIO Student Identity Verification is available in your . Log in using your activated OHIO ID and password. If you haven’t yet activated your OHIO ID, visit . You will need your PID number and birthday. Allow up to 24 hours for ID activation. 


Identity Verification FAQ:

How will students enrolling in OHIO Online or degree-seeking at a regional campus complete the identity verification process?

Students will complete the ID verification process asynchronously through a platform called Stripe. This quick and user-friendly process can be accessed through your .

Is verifying my identity required?

Yes, please refer to 51ĀŅĀ×’s Verification of Student Identity policy for more information. Students who do not verify their identification will not be allowed to enroll in courses or receive financial aid until the verification is complete.

How often will I need to verify my identity?

Students are required to verify their identity at the beginning of their academic career at 51ĀŅĀ× or when 51ĀŅĀ× believes the student account has been compromised for any reason. Student identities are also verified in an ongoing way through methods such as proctored exams and other pedagogical and related processes.

Does 51ĀŅĀ× retain my biometric information as part of the ID verification process?

Yes, please refer to our privacy policy for information on how 51ĀŅĀ× collects, retains and safeguards biometric information. 

What happens if I choose not to participate in the OHIO Student Identity Verification process?

Failure to complete the OHIO Student Identity Verification process will prevent access to 51ĀŅĀ× systems. If you previously had access to 51ĀŅĀ× systems, you will no longer be able to enroll in courses and financial aid will not be disbursed to your student account until the process is complete.

What if I encounter technical problems during the OHIO Student Identity Verification process?

Stripe has developed a on their website for individuals navigating the process.

Do I need to be located in the United States while completing the OHIO Student Identity Verification process?

You can be located outside of the United States while using the Stripe platform to complete the student identity process.

I am not a U.S. Citizen; can I utilize Stripe to complete the OHIO Student Identity Verification process?

Yes. Stripe can complete the .

What documents do I need to verify my identity?

You will need a government ID.

How do I ensure that I can successfully complete the identity verification process?

To complete the OHIO Student Identity Verification process successfully, follow these guidelines:

  • Use a valid government-issued photo ID
    • ID must not be expired, redacted, altered or damaged.
    • All edges of the ID must be visible.
    • .
  • Ensure image meets requirements
    • Upload color images in .png or .jpg format.
    • Use a mobile device camera for higher-quality photos.
    • Ensure the image is clear, well-lit and free of glare or shadows.
    • Do not block any part of your ID or your face. Remove sunglasses, masks or accessories.
  • Note lighting and positioning tips
    • Find a location with ambient lighting (avoid harsh overhead lights or bright backlighting).
    • Lay your ID on a flat surface and hold your camera steady to avoid blurry photos.

A high-quality image dramatically increases your chance of successful verification.

I was unable to successfully complete the online OHIO Student Identity Verification process, what now?

Per 51ĀŅĀ×'s Verification of Student Identity policy, students must verify their identity prior to initial enrollment. If you were unable to resolve a technical issue through Stripe's support or believe you have a unique circumstance, please contact Undergraduate Admissions at admissions@ohio.edu or the Graduate College at graduate@ohio.edu

I have already completed an identity verification process for my federal financial aid. Do I still need to complete the OHIO Student Identity Verification?

Yes. The OHIO Student Identity Verification process is still required. This process is separate from the federal Identity Verification required for some students who complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). 

I believe someone used my identity to apply to 51ĀŅĀ×. What should I do?

If you suspect your personal information was used fraudulently to apply to 51ĀŅĀ×, act immediately to protect your identity. Contact Undergraduate Admissions at admissions@ohio.edu or the Graduate College at graduate@ohio.edu to report the concern and initiate an investigation. You should also consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze through the major credit bureaus and review resources from the for additional guidance.

Does completing the OHIO Student Identity Verification process through Stripe affect my credit score?

No, Stripe's identity verification process does not affect your credit score. Stripe verifies your identity but does not a complete a credit check.

Does the OHIO Student Identity Verification process involve a background check?

No, Stripe's identity verification process does not involve a traditional background check.