Ball State University recognizes that it collects and maintains confidential information relating to its students, employees, and individuals associated with the University and is dedicated to ensuring the privacy and proper handling of this information.

In December 2002 a taskforce was formed by the Vice President for Student Affairs. The taskforce had representatives from Student Affairs, Academic Affairs, Business Affairs and computing services. Their charge was to explore the possibility of moving away from using the social security number as the primary means for identifying students and staff in the university's computer system.

During the next four months the committee reviewed similar projects at other universities. Ball State systems and procedures were reviewed. Draft copies of a policy regarding social security number usage and a set of guidelines were developed. 

In March of 2003 the taskforce recommended to Senior Staff that the university should proceed with development and implementation of a BSU-ID number for all students and employees. Senior staff approved the project in the summer of 2003.

In September 2003 the BSU-ID committee was formed to coordinate the implementation of the new BSU-ID number. The new ID cards will be distributed starting April 26, and the cards will be made active starting May 13.