COVID-19 Vaccination Policy

Effective July 1, 2023

As a condition of employment with Washington University and/or access to applicable facilities, the following University employees and trainees must be immunized by vaccination against COVID-19 unless granted a medical or religious exemption:

• Individuals employed in a healthcare role, including at the School of Medicine and affiliated facilities, Habif Health and Wellness Center, and Mental Health Services.
• Individuals located in School of Medicine and affiliated facilities, Habif Health and Wellness Center, and Mental Health Services, including those who are only occasionally required to perform duties in such facilities.
• Individuals employed by Washington University Police Department.

Such individuals are required to provide proof of full vaccination within 30 days of their start date.

As a condition of enrollment in and/or access to the School of Medicine and affiliated facilities,  students must be fully vaccinated before they arrive on campus.  For students who are unable to obtain a vaccine before arrival, the University will assist them in obtaining a vaccine locally. 

COVID-19 vaccination is provided to all University employees, trainees, and students. Those who obtain vaccination through other providers will be required to provide documentation as required by the University. Only COVID-19 vaccines authorized for use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the World Health Organization (WHO) are acceptable.  (Currently FDA-approved vaccines are listed here; currently WHO-approved vaccines are listed here.) The COVID-19 vaccines currently available in the United States are highly effective at decreasing the likelihood of contracting COVID-19, preventing serious illness in vaccinated individuals who contract COVID-19, and mitigating spread of the disease.

Exemptions

Exemptions to mandatory vaccination may be granted based on certain medical contraindications or on sincerely held religious beliefs, practices or observances. Individuals seeking an exemption must submit the appropriate exemption request form by the applicable vaccination deadline. If an individual who has received a medical exemption subsequently chooses to receive vaccination, they must provide acceptable documentation of medical clearance before receiving vaccination from the University.

In order to protect the University community, individuals granted an exemption will be subject to conditions or restrictions related to their job or educational responsibilities, facility access, and/or safety requirements (e.g., masking).

Compliance

Faculty, staff and trainees who fail to meet applicable deadlines will be prohibited from accessing applicable facilities and will be subject to unpaid suspension for up to 30 days. If vaccination or exemption has not been obtained by the end of the 30-day period, the individual will be subject to further measures, including termination of employment.  

Students who fail to meet applicable deadlines will be prohibited from accessing applicable facilities and participating in applicable activities or programs. Students will be administratively withdrawn from their courses and will not be permitted to register for classes.