(DePaul University/Jeff Carrion)
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, DePaul has focused on promoting the health and safety of the university community while being responsive to the changing nature of the virus and its spread. In light of current guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and federal and state government actions, DePaul will no longer require the COVID-19 vaccination for students, faculty and staff, effective Friday, May 12. Students entering DePaul beginning Summer Session 1 (June 12) and later will not be required to submit proof of COVID-19 vaccination.
This decision is based on several factors, including but not limited to the following:
- The federal government ended the national public health emergency for coronavirus on Thursday, May 11. This included vaccine requirements for federal workers and contractors, as well as foreign air travelers to the United States.
- Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker has announced that the state's public health emergency would also end May 11, to align with the federal government.
Accommodations
In making this decision we recognize that there may be community members who are at greater risk for COVID-19 illness and complications. The university's regular processes to offer accommodations through Human Resources and the Center for Students with Disabilities will continue to be in place for those with medical conditions that pose risks.
Take Care DePaul
While DePaul no longer requires the vaccine, we recognize that COVID-19 persists and that we must continue to take measures to protect ourselves and our community. To continue to Take Care DePaul, we encourage the community to:
- Stay up-to-date with your COVID vaccination, including boosters;
- Remain a mask-friendly campus;
- Follow CDC guidance after exposure to COVID-19, including wearing a mask and getting tested;
- Stay home when sick; and
- Practice good hygiene, including hand washing, to limit the spread of COVID-19 and other illnesses.
COVID-19 Testing
Free, rapid COVID-19 tests will continue to be available through the end of the academic year (Friday, June 9) for those individuals who do not have access to testing. The tests are available at both Office of Health Promotion and Wellness locations:
- Lincoln Park Student Center room 302
- Loop, DePaul Center suite 11016
After June 9, please speak with your health-care and insurance providers for any testing needs, including COVID-19. As always, please consult with your health-care provider with questions on testing recommendations, symptoms, and treatment.
DePaul will continue to look to the CDC, the Chicago Department of Public Health and other state and federal public health agencies for COVID-19 information and policy recommendations, and we will always Take Care of Ourselves. Take Care of Each Other. Take Care DePaul.