Mandatory Immunization FAQs
Why is there a vaccination requirement?
- For the health and safety of our campus community, Kent State University intends to be as proactive as possible in preventing disease outbreaks. Although vaccinations alone cannot stop outbreaks, medical evidence shows that higher levels of vaccination among a population lead to greater protection and less severe symptoms should an outbreak occur. The Ohio Revised Code Rule 3342-4-02.6 also states “all students enrolling for classes at Kent campus, and born after 01/01/1957, are required to provide documentation of immunity against measles, mumps, and rubella.”
How do I obtain my vaccination records?
- You may contact your current physician or your childhood healthcare provider. In the event they do not have your records, contact your high school for the documentation. If you were/are in the armed forces, you should have access to your vaccination records through Veterans Affairs.
When should I submit my vaccination documentation?
- You should have your vaccination documentation submitted to the DeWeese Health Center Patient Portal before your first semester at Kent State.
I have moral or medical reasons for not being vaccinated. What can I do?
- Exemption forms can be found at the links below. Medical exemption forms must be signed by a healthcare provider. General exemptions for religious, philosophical, and moral convictions must be notarized by a notary public.
Medical Exemption Form (PDF) General (Non-Medical) Exemption Form (PDF)
How will I know if I have met the vaccination requirements?
- Once you have successfully entered your vaccination dates AND uploaded your vaccination documentation in the DeWeese Health Center Patient Portal, our team will review your submission. If you are compliant, you will receive a checkmark on your student checklist in Flashline. You will also see a green “verified” note at the top of your vaccination page in the patient portal.
Are the regional campuses covered by this requirement?
- No. The vaccination requirements apply only to students attending Kent State University's Kent campus.
I am only taking Distanced Learning classes. Does the vaccination requirement apply to me?
- No. Students who are only enrolled in Distanced Learning courses will be exempt from this requirement.
What happens if I don’t submit my vaccination documentation?
- Failure to provide your vaccination documentation or exemption documents may result in a hold being placed on your student account. This hold could prohibit you from scheduling future classes.