Frequently Asked Questions

Student Immunization & Health Screening Requirement

I'm not sure if the requirement applies to me, how can I determine if I should submit my immunization documentation?

All students except those in a designated "Distance Learning" program are required to submit immunization documentation. However, ALL Health Sciences students must meet the immunization requirements, even if in a Distance Learning program. 

I am an international student.  Does this requirement apply to me?

• Yes, all incoming international students are subject to immunization and health screening requirements.  
• For details go to International Vaccination Information. 

I will be a new student living off-campus. Will I still need to meet the immunization requirements?

Yes, you will be required to have the same vaccinations as all new students.   

I am at UC Blue Ash or UC Clermont. Does this requirement apply to me?

All incoming UC Blue Ash students and all incoming UC Clermont students must comply with this policy and will be required to submit immunization records to the Bearcats Health App.

How do you define “incoming”?

An incoming student is any degree-seeking student who is newly enrolled in a major/program and attending the University of Cincinnati campus, UC Blue Ash campus or UC Clermont campus. Some examples may include changing major/programs, newly enrolled graduate programs even if you were on campus as an undergraduate or transferring to main campus.

How/why did you choose these particular vaccines?

• University health officials reviewed national guidelines from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American College Health Association and consulted with medical and public health experts. 
• The UC immunization requirement is consistent with those vaccines already required by the State of Ohio for Grades K-12 students.   

Are there any exemptions/exceptions to this requirement?

UC’s non-Health science students may apply for a vaccine exemption if their provider determines that an immunization would be detrimental to their health. A note from a medical provider is required to apply. Non-Medical exemptions require a Notary Public to notarize.  Detailed instructions are available on the secure Bearcats Health App portal. 

Can a non-Health Science student or Faculty that is studying or working in an outside facility that requires Covid vaccination submit a vaccine exemption request through the Bearcats Health App? 

If the outside facility has its own Covid vaccine exemption process, a non-Health Science student or Faculty member MUST submit a Covid exemption request through that system. If the facility does not have its own Covid vaccine exemption process, you may submit a request through the Bearcats Health App. 

What happens if I can’t find my immunization records?

• First check with your current physician or health care provider for your immunization records.  
• Next check with your parents/guardians. 
• Call your high school to see if they have a record of your immunizations. 
• If you are still unable to locate your records, there are several options to consider including having blood tests to verify immunity or receiving an age-appropriate primary series or booster dose. You should discuss your specific circumstances with a health care provider. 

Can I get the required immunizations at UC?

Yes, all the vaccines and tuberculosis testing are available at University Health Services. University Health Services accepts most private insurance, in addition to the campus Student Health Insurance Plan. 

Are these immunizations covered by insurance?

Since these vaccinations are considered preventive care, all should be covered by your health insurance plan if it is Affordable Care Act (ACA) compliant. The University-sponsored Student Health Insurance Plan covers these vaccinations.  Please contact your private health insurance plan for questions regarding your benefits and coverage. 

Do Housing students have additional vaccination requirements?

No, all non-health science students have the same Immunization requirements. However, an institution of higher education shall not permit a student to reside in on-campus housing unless the student (or the student’s parent if the student is younger than 18 years of age) discloses whether the student has been vaccinated against meningococcal disease and hepatitis B by submitting a meningitis and hepatitis B vaccination status statement. Reference.

Where can I find out more information?

• About the vaccines: please refer to the CDC website 
• About tuberculosis: please refer to the CDC webpage on tuberculosis