The 2026 California Student Mock Election Fact Sheet (PDF) should answer many of the questions teachers, school administrators and others may have about the Student Mock Election.

The 2026 California Student Mock Election is on Tuesday, October 6!

Join Us!

The 2026 California Student Mock Election helps young people discover the importance of elections and the power of their vote in our democracy. It gives high school and middle school students firsthand experience with the electoral process by giving them a chance to make their voices heard on the candidates and issues important to them and their families.

Here’s How

Each school needs to select a Mock Election Coordinator and register their school. The coordinator serves as the school’s primary contact to receive and distribute updates on the mock election to participating teachers and reports the final schoolwide vote tally to the Secretary of State’s office.

The mock election could become a project for the student government by itself, or with other student groups. It might involve a broader committee of students, teachers, parents, and community volunteers. Participation in the mock election can take place online, in classrooms, or at one central location on campus. Schools can add their own creative touches to make their mock election a rewarding experience.

Tools and Resources

Mock election resources will be available on the 2026 California Student Mock Election Tools for Success page in the Spring of 2026. All schools that register by September 9 will receive a welcome packet in the mail containing an informational letter, “Save the Date” posters, “I Voted” stickers, Pre-registration brochures and High School Poll Worker recruitment flyers.

New for 2026: The 2026 Student Mock Election will once again offer two electronic voting options. This year, we will be using Microsoft Forms for electronic voting and will again offer interactive PDF ballots. Electronic ballots and instructions for electronic voting will be emailed to schools that opt for an electronic supply kit when they register.

2026 Key Dates