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UCLA Immunization Requirement

Frequently Asked Questions Related to COVID-19

Which COVID-19 vaccines are accepted?

Pfizer or Moderna Bivalent vaccines given after September 1, 2022 or you can wait to receive the 2023-2024 updated Pfizer or Moderna (XBB.1.5) monovalent COVID-19 vaccine. The updated vaccine is anticipated to be available for use at the end of September 2023.

You may also complete a declination to opt out of the vaccine requirement for COVID-19. No medical/religious waivers are needed.

Where can I find current COVID-19 vaccine recommendations?

The CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and the CDC update COVID-19 vaccination recommendations frequently. All ACIP COVID-19 vaccine recommendations that have been published by CDC in MMWR can be accessed via the CDC website.

I recently recovered from COVID-19. Should I wait to get a vaccine?

If you recently tested positive for COVID-19, UCLA is following CDC guidelines which recommend taking the vaccine once your symptoms have resolved and you've met the criteria to end isolation.

I am abroad and the vaccine is not available. Can I get vaccinated when I arrive?

International students that cannot obtain a COVID vaccine are encouraged to plan ahead and schedule an appointment for a COVID vaccine upon arrival in the US. Once vaccinated, upload your COVID vaccine information on The Ashe Center Patient Portal by clicking on the Medical Clearance tab.

What if I already received a COVID-19 vaccine not authorized in the United States, do I need to get revaccinated?

You must submit documentation of a Pfizer or Moderna bivalent vaccine or you can wait to receive the 2023-2024 updated Pfizer or Moderna (XBB.1.5) monovalent COVID-19 vaccine. The updated vaccine is anticipated to be available for use at the end of September 2023.

You may also complete a declination to opt out of the vaccine requirement for COVID-19. No medical/religious waivers are needed.

I am an international student. Where should I submit my documentation for my COVID-19 bivalent vaccination for clearance/ compliance?

Students can upload their COVID-19 vaccine information on The Ashe Center Patient Portal by clicking on the Medical Clearance tab.

Are medical exceptions or disability or religious accommodations allowed?

A medical, disability or religious exception is not needed for the COVID-19 bivalent vaccine. If you need to opt out of the COVID-19 bivalent vaccine, simply submit a declination on The Ashe Center Patient Portal by clicking on the Medical Clearance tab. The declination option is at the bottom of the screen.