Office of Student Life

BuckID Available in Mobile Wallets

Your BuckID is now available in Apple Wallet, Google Wallet and Samsung Wallet!

The mobile BuckID will soon be available to all new incoming students on the Columbus campus. Tap your iPhone, Apple Watch, Samsung Galaxy, or other eligible Android phones at readers across campus to conveniently use your mobile BuckID. Your mobile BuckID acts just like the physical card and now you can add it to your preferred digital wallet - and it works everywhere that a physical BuckID card does!

Am I Eligible for Mobile BuckID

For summer 2026, only incoming first-year students on the Columbus campus attending orientation will be eligible to get the mobile BuckID this summer. Mobile BuckID will roll out to additional students and select Columbus campus employees this August. More details will come as Fall semester approaches.

Students that are in 100% online programs and remote employees can access a basic digital BuckID in the Ohio State App without needing to add the full mobile BuckID to their mobile wallet.

What If I Don't Have a Compatible Device or Prefer a Physical Card?

If your device is not on the list of compatible devices, you can still use and obtain a physical BuckID card. Simply visit the BuckID office to obtain a physical BuckID card.

Photo Submission

Once you have your Ohio State Name.#, please submit your photo that will be used on your mobile BuckID. You can find the photo requirements and more information on the submission process on our orientation page.  Photos will generally be reviewed and approved within 3 to 5 business days.

If you haven't done so already, set up your Ohio State Name.# and multi-factor authentication (BuckeyePass) at my.osu.edu.

Adding Your Mobile BuckID

Using Your Mobile BuckID On and Around Campus

Apple Users

Hold your iPhone or Apple Watch near a contactless reader - no need to unlock your device if Express Mode is enabled.

Android Users

Enable NFC on your phone in your settings menu. You do not need to unlock your phone, but the screen may need to be awake to use your mobile BuckID at the reader.

Where Can I Use my Mobile BuckID?

  • University Building Access (including residence hall exterior entrances, and some residence hall rooms)
  • On-Campus Dining Locations
  • Off-Campus Merchants
  • Recreational Sports Facilities

Still Have Questions?

Check out our mobile BuckID Frequently Asked Questions.