Brandeis ID Card Replacement
[Photo of Louis Sachar’s Card-New Design]
Brandeis University is upgrading its campus access system by introducing tap-enabled technology to Brandeis ID cards as part of an enhanced focus on campus safety and security. With this upgrade, students, faculty, and staff will be able to tap or swipe their ID cards for entry, supporting reliable identification and requiring community members to carry their ID with them at all times while moving about campus.
The new system uses encrypted smart-chip technology to provide secure, contactless access by holding your card near a tap reader. Tap access will be introduced gradually, and all existing swipe readers will remain active during the transition. No location will become tap-only until every community member has received a new card, and departments will receive advance notice of any reader upgrades.
This cross-departmental initiative, led by Public Safety, the Campus Card Office, and Information Technology Services, reflects Brandeis’s continued commitment to modernization, accessibility, and a safe campus environment. Distribution of new tap-enabled ID cards will begin in Spring 2026, with additional details shared as rollout progresses.
Why Your Card Matters
Your Brandeis ID verifies your identity, helps keep campus secure, and connects you to the services you use every day. It allows you to move around campus efficiently and ensures fast access to buildings, dining, academic spaces, recreation, and events. Carrying your card with you at all times helps keep your experience smooth and safe.
Your card provides access to:
- Residence halls
- Dining halls and Retail dining
- Academic and Administrative buildings
- Brandeis Library services
- Gosman Sports and Fitness Center
- Campus events and programs that require check-in
- Purchases with WhoCash
- Printing and copying services
Your card is much more than identification. It is your daily connection to Brandeis.
Types of Card Readers on Campus
As Brandeis transitions to tap-enabled ID cards, you will encounter two kinds of readers.
Tap Readers (Smart Readers)
- Use encrypted smart-chip technology
- Allow contactless access by holding your card near the reader
- Provide improved security and faster entry
- Will be introduced gradually across campus
Swipe Readers (Magstripe Readers)
- Use the magnetic stripe on the back of the card
- Require inserting or swiping the card
- Will remain active throughout the entire transition
- No door will switch to tap-only until all community members have new cards
Many building entrances will offer tap or swipe depending on the reader installed. During the rollout, all swipe readers will remain available and accessible.
Key Information
What is Changing
Brandeis is adding tap-enabled functionality through an embedded smart chip. The new cards will support both tap and swipe access and will provide faster and more secure entry.
Why Brandeis is Upgrading the System
The upgrade enhances security, convenience, and accessibility through modern encrypted technology and contactless entry options.
Distribution Timeline
New tap-enabled ID cards will begin being distributed in Spring, 2026. The Campus Card Office will share pickup instructions and timelines before rollout begins.
Replacing Your Card
All community members, including students, staff, faculty, contractors, and affiliates, will receive a new tap-enabled card. The first new card is provided at no cost. The standard replacement fee is $50 if your card is lost or damaged after distribution.
Photo Requirements
You are encouraged to take a new photo if your current picture is more than five years old or no longer reflects your appearance. You will be able to upload a new photo through an online submission portal - GET. Please go here for further instructions on how to upload your new photo in GET.
Card Design
The new ID card will feature an updated design and include the embedded chip that enables tap access.
What your Brandeis Campus Card Does
Your Brandeis Campus Card is your official university ID and the tool you will use every day to access campus buildings, services, and resources essential to your daily life at Brandeis.
Residence Halls
Tap your card to enter your assigned residence hall, giving you secure, convenient access to your living space without needing to carry extra keys or worry about lost locks.
Dining Halls
Swipe your card into Sherman and Usdan to enjoy meals included in your dining plan, making it easy to track your plan usage and access a variety of dining options on campus.
Retail Dining Meal Exchanges
Redeem eligible Meal Exchanges at participating campus dining locations, allowing you to enjoy meals or snacks at multiple venues while making the most of your dining plan benefits.
Academic and Campus Buildings
Use your card to access academic and administrative buildings where you have assigned permission, ensuring that only authorized students, staff, and faculty can enter these spaces.
Brandeis Library
Your card lets you borrow books, media, and other materials, as well as access library computers, study spaces, and research resources throughout the Brandeis Library system.
Gosman Sports and Fitness Center
Swipe your card to gain entry to recreation and fitness facilities, giving you convenient access to equipment, workout classes, and athletic programs offered on campus.
Campus Events and Programs
Many campus events, workshops, and student programs require card check-in, making your Brandeis ID essential for participation and attendance tracking.
WhoCash Purchases
Use WhoCash for on-campus dining, bookstore transactions, printing, or copying services, providing a prepaid, convenient account linked directly to your ID for everyday campus spending.
Daily Tips
- Keep your card in a protective holder to prevent scratches and damage.
- Report a lost card in GET Mobile right away so your meal plan, Points, and WhoCash remain protected.
- Carry your card with you at all times for the fastest service, even if you use mobile ordering for dining.
Using your Card: Quick Facts
Meal Plan Basics
- Meal Exchanges reset weekly, and do not roll over
- Block Meals expire at the end of the semester
- Dining Points roll over from Fall to Spring only
- Points expire at the end of the academic year
- Housing changes may update your meal plan eligibility
WhoCash
- Prepaid campus account linked to your ID
- Can be used at dining locations, the bookstore, printing and copying services, and public printers
- Works like a debit-style account
- Separate from Dining Points and Meal Exchanges
GET and Card Management
- Check Meal Exchange usage and balances
- View Dining Points and WhoCash
- Manage your card online
- Report a lost card instantly
If Your Card Is Not Working
- Tap or swipe failures may indicate card damage
- Door access may need to be synced or your card may need replacement
Lost cards should be deactivated immediately in GET and then replaced at the Card Office