2020-21 Academic Year

Reminder: Vaccine Compliance Deadline is Monday, August 2

July 29, 2021

Dear Students,

I write as a friendly reminder that the deadline to submit your proof of vaccination - Monday, August 2 - is rapidly approaching. It is also the deadline for receiving either a one-dose vaccine or the final shot of a two-dose vaccine.

If you would like further instructions on submitting your vaccine documentation, visit Vaccine Documentation Upload Instructions. Please note that Columbia makes every effort to ensure the privacy of all health-related information. Read more details on our privacy policy.

International students who were unable to complete the required COVID-19 vaccination with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or World Health Organization (WHO) authorized vaccines before campus arrival will be offered an FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccine upon arrival.
 
Timeline to Comply with the Columbia Community Health Compact
Please ensure that you complete the following checklist and meet the corresponding deadlines.

  • August 2: Comply with University’s COVID-19 vaccination requirement and upload your vaccine documentation.
  • August 16: Sign the compact. You can do this now on the ReOpen CU app or online.
  • September 1: Complete your training, which will be available in the ReOpen CU app or online. Student training will be accessible in August.
  • September 9: Meet the University’s COVID-19 testing requirements.
    • Complete your gateway test when you arrive on campus. This can be on day 1 if you are fully vaccinated or on day 3-5 if you are not fully vaccinated.

Updated Questions and Answers about COVID-19 and the Campus Return
I know that many of you have questions about the requirements surrounding the August 2 compliance deadline, as well as the return to campus. Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions.

  • If I got my vaccine at Columbia, do I need to upload my vaccine documentation?
    • No, if you got your vaccine at Columbia Health and CUIMC Student Health on Haven, you do not need to upload the documentation.
  • Do international students need to come to campus early to get their vaccine if they have not been able to get vaccinated in their home country?
    • No, international students will be able to receive their vaccine once they arrive on campus. They should plan to get it shortly after arrival. Students will have access to campus following quarantine and testing requirements while they get their vaccine, but they will have additional restrictions in place until fully vaccinated (i.e. travel quarantine, face coverings, testing and physical distancing).
  • If I am traveling from abroad, will I be able to participate in class and events while I get my vaccine regimen?
    • Students who are not fully vaccinated with a Food & Drug Administration (FDA) or World Health Organization (WHO) approved vaccine must quarantine for 7 days after arriving in the US from international travel. This will also include a test on day 3-5 after return. You will not be able to attend class or other events in person until the quarantine is completed and the results of the gateway test on day 3-5 are received.
    • Students who are fully vaccinated with an FDA or WHO approved vaccine are required to test on day 3-5 after arriving in the US from international travel, but are not required to quarantine. They are required to get a gateway test but are able to attend class and other events.

Reminder: Upcoming Vaccine Forums
Join one of these information panels to ask your specific questions and learn more about what to expect as you arrive this fall.

If your question was not answered here, please check the University’s COVID-19 Resource Guide and FAQs Regarding COVID-19 Vaccination website first as many of your questions will likely be answered there. If you have specific questions related to your personal situation, you can email the following:

As always, we welcome your general questions and concerns at [email protected].

We thank you for your continued support in ensuring a safe return to campus.

Take care,

Joseph Defraine Greenwell, Ed.D.
Vice President for Student Affairs
Office of University Life
Gender Pronouns: He/Him/His