Skip to main content

FAQs

General Information

What is the contact information, location, and hours for the Wildcard Office??

How do I have my first Wildcard made??

New students are required to submit their Wildcard photo online by July 1 (visit Information for New Students for more information). Please review the guidelines below and upload your photo on our Photo Submission page. In-person photos are no longer offered at the Wildcard Offices in Evanston and Chicago.

My Wildcard is lost/stolen, what do I do??

View procedures on the Replacing Your Wildcard page.

What services and accounts will I access with my Wildcard??

The overview of Wildcard features can be found on the About Your Wildcard page.

What if I want my chosen name/display name to appear on my Wildcard??

Upon request the Wildcard Office will issue a Wildcard with a chosen name/display name. Please bring the card you were initially issued to exchange for a new card in order to avoid a replacement fee.

Photo Submission

Where is the Online Photo Submission process?

The link to the online submission is on our Photo Submission page.

Who is eligible to use the Online Photo Submission process?

New incoming students are eligible to use the online photo submission process. In addition, faculty/staff with an expiring Wildcard will be able to submit a new photo within 60 days of the expiration date. (Note: photographs on file for more than 10 years must be updated in order to renew your ID).

How do I find my NetID and password?

You should have received your NU NetID and password from NUIT. For more information, visit the NUIT website.

What are the requirements for the photo submitted?

To see the list of requirements, visit the Photo Submission page.

Do I need to notify the Wildcard office once I upload my photo?

No, once you submit your photo, the office will be automatically notified. You should receive a response within two business days.

How will I know if my photo was accepted?

The Wildcard Office will send an email to your @u.northwestern.edu email address to inform you if your photo was accepted or rejected.

Where will I pick up my Wildcard during Wildcat Welcome Week?

On move-in day, Undergraduate Students who have not received their Wildcard by mail will pick up their card from their assigned Welcome Center. You must present a government-issued photo ID (e.g., your driver’s license, state photo ID, or current valid passport).

Can anyone else pick up my Wildcard for me?

Yes, please contact the Wildcard Office directly at wildcard@northwestern.edu to make arrangements if needed.

How do I pick up my Wildcard if I don’t get it during Wildcat Welcome Week?

You can make an appointment with the office at your convenience to stop by and pick-up your ID during business hours. Please see the Wildcard Office Locations page.

Can I get a Wildcard if I don’t submit a photo online?

No, all photos must be submitted online. To submit your photo and view instructions on acceptable photos to submit please see the Photo Submission page.

Why do I need to pick up my Wildcard during Wildcat Welcome Week?

Your Wildcard is your official Northwestern identification, and you need your card for a variety of reasons, including accessing your meal plans and riding the Northwestern shuttles. If you did not receive your Wildcard in the mail please visit the About Your Wildcard page.

Can I change my picture later??

Yes, but you will have to pay a replacement fee.