Identity Verification FAQs

Identity verification is essential for TESU to maintain academic integrity and program quality. It ensures the person enrolled in a course is the same individual completing the work and earning the degree, which upholds the value of the education. This process also helps us comply with federal regulations like the Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA), which mandates identity confirmation for distance learning. Furthermore, it is a critical tool for protecting you against identity theft and securing your personal data from unauthorized access. By verifying your identity, we safeguard the credibility of our institution and the value of your degree.

You will need a government-issued ID with a photo and your name. You can use a driver’s license, passport or state ID. Military ID’s, Police ID’s, and CAD cards will not be accepted. Government passports and driver’s licenses from over 190 countries are acceptable. You will need to take a live photo of the front and back of your ID as part of the process. You cannot upload a photo of the ID you may have already taken. You will also need to take a selfie during the process.

Once you submit your application to Thomas Edison State University, you will receive a text message sent to the number provided on the application. The message will include a link to be opened on your mobile device. You will be asked to take a photo of the front and back of your license or passport, as well as a biometric image (e.g., a selfie). Your camera will need to be available on your mobile device. Successful verification is required for admission to Thomas Edison State University.

If you provided an international mobile number on your application, you will not receive the text message typically used for identity verification. Instead, you will receive an email sent to the address you provided on your application once your application is submitted. This email will include a secure link to complete the identity verification process.

To complete this process, you must use a device with a working camera, such as a smartphone or computer with webcam access.

Successful identity verification is required for admission to Thomas Edison State University.

Once you open the link, it takes less than 2 minutes to complete the process to verify your identity. It is important to have your phone camera and ID ready as you will to take a live photo of it.

No, there is no special technology or software needed. If your phone can take photos and receive text messages, you can complete the process.

The link will be accessible for 7 days as long as you do not decline the request.

No, there is no delay caused by the additional step of identity verification. You will hear about the status of your application within 3 business days of submission.

Please contact us at Admissions 609-777-5680, option 2 or admissions@tesu.edu.