Drew University on Monday announced it will require students to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before starting classes this fall. The liberal arts school in Madison joins a list that includes Fairleigh Dickinson, Montclair State, Rutgers and Princeton universities.
From Drew University:
Students planning to be on campus will be required
to present evidence of COVID-19 immunization
April 2021 – Drew University has announced a policy requiring a COVID-19 vaccination for all students planning to be on campus during the 2021–2022 academic year. This includes undergraduate and graduate students; students participating in our joint and collaborative programs with other institutions; and visiting, exchange, non-matriculated, and special-program students.
All students arriving for the fall 2021 semester will be required to present evidence of COVID-19 immunization—defined as a complete series of any COVID-19 vaccine authorized for use in the U.S. by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)—at least two weeks prior to moving into their residence hall or August 13 for commuter students.
Students will upload evidence of the U.S.-authorized immunization to their Drew University Student Health Portal upon completion of their vaccination series.
This decision follows the CDC’s recent nationwide expansion of COVID-19 vaccine eligibility to all individuals ages 16 and older. The purpose is to promote the health and safety of the Drew community and to contribute to federal, state, and local efforts to reduce and end the pandemic.
The University will allow exemptions from this requirement for medical or religious reasons. Additionally, students who will not be on campus and whose entire course of study is web-based, who are enrolled in a fully online degree program, and/or who are fully remote will be exempt from this policy.
Drew will work closely and on a case-by-case basis with international students who may not be able to obtain the vaccine prior to leaving their home country, including assisting them in obtaining the vaccine upon arrival.
The University recognizes that there may be barriers due to differing vaccine protocols throughout the world, as well as challenges surrounding visa obtainment or restrictions on travel. Drew is committed to assisting our international students navigate their safe returns to campus.
This policy is subject to change based on factors such as the progress of the COVID-19 pandemic and guidance from governmental authorities.
Visit this site for the most up-to-date information on Drew’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and this FAQ page for answers to questions regarding the vaccine policy.
