As shared in a Nov. 6 NinerNotice, the University will require COVID-19 entry testing for students, faculty and staff living, learning and working on campus for the spring 2021 semester. While some details and logistics are still being finalized, we wanted to provide you an update on what you can expect.
Why the University is doing this testing
It is expected that cases of COVID-19 will surge after the winter break. To ensure we are beginning the semester as safely as possible, we are requiring individuals who will be on campus to be tested for the virus before the start of classes.
Who is required to be tested
All students living on campus
All students taking on-campus classes
All students working on campus
All students with a meal plan
All faculty teaching on-campus classes
All faculty and staff with jobs that require them to be regularly on campus
How you will know if you have to be tested
If you are required to be tested, you will receive an email by Friday, Dec. 18, with detailed information on your testing options and how to report test results if you choose not to be tested on campus.
Where and when you can be tested
The University will offer free on-campus COVID-19 testing.
You may choose to get tested on campus or from any other health care provider offering the test.
If you choose to be tested off-campus, you will be required to provide proof of your results from a molecular, PCR test prior to returning to campus. The test will need to be administered within 72 hours of the start of classes or your return to your residence hall to be valid.
The dates of on-campus testing and location are being evaluated based on expected demand and housing move-in, but testing will begin several days before the start of classes on Jan. 20.
More details will be provided no later than Friday, Dec. 18.
What happens if you test positive
If you test positive, you will be instructed to enter isolation for 10 days.
The University has housing available for that purpose if you are an on-campus student.
If you are an off-campus student or employee, you will isolate in your private residence.
The University’s contact tracing team will also work with anyone who tests positive to notify close contacts to begin the CDC-recommended quarantine period.
When you will know more
Additional details will be finalized and shared no later than Friday, Dec. 18.