Each Harvard student ID card will feature an embedded computer chip that can be read when the card is tapped against a reader. This triggers a mutual authentications process. If the reader is able to match the card data, access is granted. Students, faculty, resident tutors, dining workers, and vendors will all carry the cards to gain access to campus buildings.

On the front of each Harvard University ID card is the cardholder's photo along with text and graphical elements. The back of each card features an iCLASS external identification number, and HID iCLASS copyright line, plus a wide magnetic stripe along with a second, thinner mag stripe for additional applications. Embedded in the card is a thin antenna coil which is used to transmit card information to wall-mounted readers.