ISO Number:
The 16-digit number printed on the front of your card is also encoded on the magnetic stripe on the back of your card. It is an identification number used when scanning your card for services and activities on campus. This number also becomes important if you decide to attach a free checking account from Commerce to your card. If a card must be replaced, the cardholder will be issued a new ISO Number.
ID Number:
On March 24, 2003, the Card Center began issuing the KU Card with a 7-digit ID number printed on the front of the card. This 7-digit number is your KUID number. It is used to identify you as a student at the University of Kansas and is referenced by many campus departments when providing service and support to students. Prior to March 24, 2003, the KU Card was issued with a 6-digit number. The 6-digit number serves the same purpose as the 7-digit number.
Magnetic Stripe:
The magnetic stripe carries information about your status at the University. If you are enrolled for the current semester (students), or have an active job status (staff/faculty), you will have access to the library and recreational facilities. Students who live in the residence halls can use their KU Card to gain access to their residence hall after 11:00pm. Students with meal plans will use their cards to eat in the residence hall dining centers. The magnetic stripe is also used for Beak ‘Em Bucks, which can be used at the food courts in the KU Memorial Unions, the Underground at Wescoe Hall, residence hall dining centers, campus snack bars and convenience stores, pizza delivery, and at select off-campus merchant locations. It can also be used for photocopying in the Libraries, printing in the labs, and laundry. You can also attach a free checking account from Commerce onto your magnetic stripe.
Commerce Account:
You can use your KU Card as an ATM card and limited debit card by opening a free checking account with Commerce. A Commerce branch is conveniently located on the 4th level of the Kansas Union. For more details, click here.
