For more than 16 months, our campus has navigated the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and adapted to the changing landscape. After seeing a decline in cases for three months, we are now seeing a rise in cases among members of our campus community, and more generally, a rise in cases across San Diego County, California and the nation, driven by the Delta and Delta-plus variants of the virus.
We have been able to avoid outbreaks on our campus because of our successful Return to Learn approach and the extraordinary efforts of our students, faculty, and staff. Thank you for your flexibility and patience as we continue to navigate this dynamic public health situation. It is because of you that we are able to Return to Learn.
This update to campus operations will provide the information needed to enter the Fall quarter with confidence and an emphasis on safety for our entire campus community.
Get Vaccinated
Full compliance with the policy for all campus students, faculty, and staff is required by September 6, 2021, two weeks before the start of the fall term. To meet the mandate, the campus needs to confirm that you are fully vaccinated, or have requested and been granted a medical, religious, or disability exception or deferral. Individuals are encouraged to submit documentation and requests as soon as possible. Requests for exception or deferral must be received no later than September 2, 2021. More information about the documentation process can be found on the Return to Learn website.
All UC San Diego Health employees and clinical-facing Health Sciences employees are required to be fully vaccinated and provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination or to request an exception or deferral by August 23, 2021.
Masking Policy Updated
Everyone, regardless of vaccination status, must wear a mask or face covering at all indoor locations at UC San Diego, except while eating and drinking. The exception to this rule would be for a single individual in an office with a closed door. To be effective, masks must cover both the nose and the mouth.
Students moving into campus housing must agree to Phase 1 and Phase 2 safety protocols, which include masking requirements. During Phase 1, residents will be required to wear masks in their residential units, except in their personal bedroom or while showering. Residents will be notified when campus housing moves into Phase 2, at which time residents will no longer be required to mask within their suite or apartment.
All students, faculty and staff are encouraged, but not required, to wear masks outdoors while on campus. Attendees at outdoor campus events must wear a face mask if required by the event organizer. Read the full masking policy online.
Daily Screening
Asymptomatic Testing
At the present time, asymptomatic vaccinated students, faculty, and staff are permitted, but not required, to test weekly, if they choose.
Students moving into on-campus housing are required to complete an in-person COVID-19 test prior to move-in to identify and isolate any asymptomatic individuals who could unintentionally spread the virus. Testing will be conducted in areas convenient to residence halls as part of the 10-day, staggered move-in process. Additional tests are required on Day 5 and 10 after move-in. More information about Fall Quarter move-in is available on the HDH website.
All individuals who have received an approved exemption or deferral to the mandatory vaccination policy must complete asymptomatic testing at least twice weekly. Tests must be taken not more than 5 days apart. Find locations for ongoing asymptomatic testing locations on campus on the Return to Learn website.
Special Events
Indoor Events
Indoor events are temporarily not allowed through October 31, 2021, unless by Vice Chancellor exception using the formal event approval process. Indoor events that can be convened virtually should be held online. Classes are not considered events and will be conducted primarily in person, with all individuals expected to comply with the updated masking policy.
Outdoor Events
Outdoor events, while still permitted at this time, should be considered carefully to avoid large crowds. Event organizers are encouraged to consider requiring face coverings for their outdoor events, although doing so is not required at this time.
For outdoor events where food and beverages will be served, buffets are not allowed. Boxed snacks or plated meals, and individual beverages, may be enjoyed outdoors when participants are physically-distanced from one another.
All visitors and guests at UC San Diego onsite events must be vaccinated or have a recent negative COVID-19 test and will be expected to provide proof of vaccination or provide a recent negative COVID test (within the last 48 hours) for event participation.
Thank you
We will continue to review campus protocols and adapt them based on our evolving understanding of the science and its implications. Any changes to campus safety protocols will be made thoughtfully, and guided by a commitment to the health and well-being of our community.
Our campus has been one of the safest places to be throughout this pandemic. We have consistently demonstrated our ability to successfully deliver on our mission of education, research, patient care and service to our community.
I am confident in our ability to be nimble as we navigate this most recent phase and enter into the 2021-2022 academic year. Our flexibility, resilience and optimism will continue to define us as Tritons.
I look forward to welcoming you to campus soon.
