University students who plan to participate in any on-campus or University System-sponsored experience must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, as defined below in this guidance, or obtain a University System-approved exemption. Booster shots are strongly encouraged for all students as a way to prevent severe cases of COVID-19.
What do we mean by fully vaccinated?
Fully Vaccinated: This is defined as completing the primary vaccine series doses in a two-dose COVID-19 vaccine series, such as the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, or completing a single-dose COVID-19 vaccine, such as Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen vaccine.
At this time boosters are not required but are highly recommended in case the University shifts to requiring boosters at a later date in response to the changing pandemic.
How do I submit proof of vaccination?
New Students – Complete your ‘COVID Vaccine/Exemption Docs’ found in the Student Center main page under ‘To Do List’. For assistance or questions, please contact your academic advisor.
Returning Students – To upload proof of your vaccination series or submit an exemption request, please refer to the UMS COVID-19 Portal (External Site).
Are there any exemptions?
Yes, but they are limited so our best advice is for you to obtain the vaccinations if you are able.
- Medical Exemption: Fill out the downloadable UMS form provided in the UMS COVID-19 Portal (External Site), including a signature from a licensed physician, nurse practitioner or physician assistant that, in the provider’s professional judgment, immunization may be medically inadvisable.
- Religious Exemption: : Fill out the downloadable UMS form provided in the UMS COVID-19 Portal (External Site), including a physical signature from the student, or guardian if the student is a minor, that the student’s sincerely held religious beliefs are contrary to the COVID-19 vaccination requirement.
Can I get vaccinated in the US?
Yes, COVID vaccines including boosters are easily accessible at most supermarkets and pharmacies on a walk in basis. Please be sure you bring proof of any vaccines you may have received to date.
What about masks?
In general, face coverings are optional and welcomed across the University of Maine System, indoors and outdoors for all persons regardless of vaccination status. There are many important exceptions, including in classrooms, when face coverings will or may continue to be required.
Visit the UMS Covid-19 Information page for all the latest updates.