The immunization documentation is a part of the requirements for new international students in institutions in the United States or Canada. Regardless of your academic level or student status, you are required to submit documents (test reports or vaccine cards) that show your vaccination history. This documentation is compulsory to make sure incoming students are healthy and ensure the health of other students on campus.
Below are some ways to provide immunization/vaccination records:
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Photocopy of your immunization records from your healthcare provider.
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Immunization records from another university.
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Primary (elementary) / secondary (high school) records of vaccinations.
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State, international, or government-issued records of vaccination.
The following are required to meet immunization requirements:
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Two doses of Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccinations after your first birthday or results of a blood test (titer) showing you have immunity.
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One dose of Tdap (tetanus, toxoid, reduced diphtheria toxoid, and acellular pertussis) and Td (tetanus toxoid) booster if it has exceeded 10 years.
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Three doses of hepatitis B or a blood test showing immunity.
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Two doses of varicella (chickenpox) or a blood test showing immunity.
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Meningococcal (meningitis), MC4, and Serogroup B for individuals under 23 years.
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Tuberculosis screening via PPD skin testing, Quantiferon TB Gold or T-spot, and/or chest X-ray, on arrival to the United States/ Canada.
Optional vaccines may include:
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COVID-19
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HPV
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Flu
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Polio
You are required to get the immunizations done in your home country except in situations where you can’t get vaccinated for reasons of availability or not enough time to complete the required doses. Although vaccination is important, not fulfilling all the requirements may not necessarily stop you from resuming school. Universities typically have a student health services department, and you can reach out to them and explain your particular situation. They may make some adjustments like waiving the ones that are not required for travel and allow you to schedule appointments to complete the requirements before school resumes.