How we use cookies to improve your experience.
Last updated: March 13, 2026
This Cookie Policy explains what cookies are, how Northstar uses them, and how you can control your cookie preferences. By using Northstar, you consent to our use of cookies in accordance with this policy.
Cookies are small text files stored on your device when you visit websites. They help websites remember your preferences, authenticate your session, and improve your experience.
Northstar uses both first-party cookies (set by us) and third-party cookies (set by our service providers) to operate and improve our platform.
These cookies verify your identity and keep you logged in as you navigate Northstar. Without them, you would need to log in on every page. Duration: Session or up to 30 days for 'Remember Me'.
Security cookies protect against cross-site request forgery (CSRF) and other malicious attacks. They cannot be disabled without breaking core functionality.
These remember your settings like notification preferences, track selection (college/precollege), and UI customizations. Duration: Up to 1 year.
We use analytics cookies to understand how users interact with Northstar — which features are popular, where users get stuck, and how we can improve. Data is aggregated and anonymized.
These cookies help us detect errors, measure page load times, and optimize performance. No personally identifiable information is collected.
You can disable analytics cookies through your browser settings or using privacy tools like the Network Advertising Initiative opt-out page without affecting core functionality.
All modern browsers allow you to view, manage, and delete cookies. You can typically find these controls in Settings > Privacy or Security. Note: Blocking essential cookies will prevent you from using Northstar.
If you've installed Northstar as a mobile app, cookie management depends on your device's browser settings (Safari on iOS, Chrome on Android).
Some third-party services we use (hosting, analytics) may set their own cookies. We do not control these cookies but require our partners to respect your privacy.
Session cookies expire when you close your browser. Persistent cookies remain until their expiration date or until you delete them manually.
| Cookie Name | Purpose | Type | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| auth_token | Authentication | Essential | 30 days |
| csrf_token | Security | Essential | Session |
| user_prefs | Preferences | Essential | 1 year |
| _ga, _gid | Analytics | Analytics | 2 years / 24 hours |
| guest_session | Guest mode | Essential | 30 days |
If you have questions about our use of cookies or this Cookie Policy, contact us:
Email: privacy@northstar.app
Support: support@northstar.app