Requiring vaccines, a primary strategy in the UO’s return to in-person instruction, will help the university reach the highest level of protection possible.

“The science is clear,” wrote UO President Michael H. Schill in announcing the requirement. “The COVID‑19 vaccine effectively significantly reduces the chances of death or serious illness in nearly all COVID‑19 infections. Requiring vaccinations will help us reduce infections, limit many of the disruptions of COVID-19, and safeguard the community we live in. It will also allow our campus community to return to the in-person and on-campus experience that is the cornerstone of academic success, student experience, and research innovation.”

University leaders consulted with experts and stakeholders, including students, faculty members and staff, in creating the vaccine requirements, regulations and resources, including the answers to these most frequently asked questions.

Are UO students and employees required to be vaccinated for COVID-19?

Yes. The UO requires students and employees who learn, work or live on UO campuses and property to be fully vaccinated prior to the start of the fall 2021 academic term. The UO will recognize exemption requests. Full details on the process for complying with the UO’s COVID-19 vaccination requirement are available on the student vaccination webpage and the employee vaccination webpage.

How many students and UO employees are vaccinated?

A weekly dashboard shows the number of responses and the percentage of those who attest to being vaccinated.

How do I submit my proof of COVID-19 vaccination or request an exemption?

UO students: Submit your information to UO Health Services by using the myUOHealth student portal. Additional information is available on the student vaccination webpage.

UO Employees: Submit your information using this web form. Additional information is available on the employee vaccination webpage.

What are the deadlines for completing the COVID-19 vaccination requirement process?

• Residence hall students: upon move-in but no later than Sept. 14.
• All employees outside of the Law School: Sept. 17.
• All other students: Sept. 27.

Is vaccination proof required at events?

The UO is requiring proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test at large public events like games, concerts or conferences.

Will the UO accept vaccines other than those approved for use in the U.S.?

The UO will accept any COVID-19 vaccine that has been approved by the World Health Organization. In keeping with the clinical considerations guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, those who have received a vaccine that has not been approved by the WHO will be offered a U.S.-approved vaccine.

Where can I get a vaccine?

You can receive a free COVID-19 vaccine through a county public health agency, pharmacy or health care provider. Those living in Lane County can go to a Lane County Public Health clinic.

Am I completely immune from COVID-19 after I receive both doses of the vaccine?

No. Treat this vaccine like any other. You are never completely immune, but studies show that with COVID-19 vaccines, you have a significantly higher chance of fighting targeted viruses that attempt to enter your body two weeks after your second, or final, dose.

Where can I get more information about the COVID-19 vaccines?

See the UO’s vaccines page. And the CDC has published extensive information about COVID-19 vaccines.

For more about plans for the new school year, see the main #ForwardTogether page.