New Student Photo Submission

Follow these steps to get your first Cougar Card.

Welcome to the College of Charleston! You will need an official College of Charleston ID card, known as the Cougar Card, to access a range of services and benefits across campus. Submit your photo at least five business days before your orientation. We’ll have your new Cougar Card ready to pick up during your session. (Make sure to bring proper ID for pickup - read below for examples.)

Photo Requirements

We need a recent color photo with a plain, neutral background (white, off-white, cream, beige, light gray).

  • No group photos - you must be the only person in the photo.
  • Face and hair should be clearly visible, with your face centered and facing forward. No hats, please.
  • Wear prescription glasses if you normally do so, but do not wear sunglasses. Your eyes should be clearly visible.
  • A natural smile or neutral facial expression is best.
  • Use proper lighting.
  • Do not use filters or AI-enhanced photos.
  • Crop the photo from just above your head to your collarbone.
  • Save the photo in .jpg format.

Photo Dos and Don'ts

photo of person with forehead tilted forward for a portrait and another person on the right wearing a hat and posing
 
 

Don't get denied. Check out examples of acceptable photos to help you submit your best shot!

How to submit a photo

First, make sure your photo meets the requirements.
  • Go to the Cougar Card Portal.
  • Click Login. You will be directed to a Microsoft Sign-in (use your CofC login) or it will automatically sign you in if you have recently signed into MyPortal or other College of Charleston resources online. If you are unable to log in, Get Login Assistance.
  • Click on the Profile tab and then the "Click to submit a new photo" link. There is no need to fill out the personal information on the Profile page.
  • Before you are able to submit your photo, you must accept the Cougar Card Agreement.
  • After accepting the terms and conditions, follow the instructions to upload and submit your photo online.
  • Campus Services will email you with approval or next steps if your photo cannot be used.

Once your photo is submitted and approved, you cannot submit another photo. If you would like a different photo on your Cougar Card, visit Campus Services HQ at 162 Calhoun St. (ground floor of Berry Hall) to have a new photo taken and pay the replacement fee.

Card Pickup

Once your photo is accepted you will get a confirmation email from Campus Services. If you are attending orientation, you will pick up your Cougar Card during your session. Otherwise, your Cougar Card will be available for pickup at Campus Services HQ (162 Calhoun St.) Be sure to have a valid government issued identification to get your Cougar Card. Acceptable forms of identification include a Driver’s License or Non-driver ID Card issued by the DMV, U.S. Green Card, Passport book or card, or a U.S. Military ID Card.