COVID-19 Student FAQs

What are the vaccination requirements on campus?

Bard requires all students, faculty, and staff to have up-to-date immunization against COVID-19 as per current CDC guidelines. Updated vaccines are now available and are recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The updated vaccines target current COVID variants and are also designed to strengthen your defenses against severe COVID.  

Students must enter the dates of all COVID vaccinations and submit proof of vaccination via the Student Health Portal at bard.medicatconnect.com (if you are unable to access the portal, students may send this information to [email protected]).

How can I request a medical or religious exemption?

To request an exemption for vaccine or booster requirements for religious or medical reasons, please complete the form found on the Health Services website. Please note that if you were previously approved for an exemption, your exemption extends to the booster requirement and you do not need to reapply.

I’m vaccinated and up to date. Do I still need to wear a mask?

Bard College is a “mask-friendly” campus. With this policy, we have lifted the indoor mask mandate, but encourage anyone who wishes to wear a mask to do so.

In accordance with CDC guidelines and based on current community transmission levels, everyone must continue to be masked when visiting Bard Health Services. The College asks all students, faculty, and staff to remember to keep a mask on them to be ready for various situations you may encounter throughout the day.

Who should I contact about classroom accommodations during the pandemic?

If you require classroom accommodations, please contact the Office of Disability Access Services at [email protected]. 

What should I do if I test positive for COVID-19?

What should I do if I learn that I've been exposed to COVID-19?

If you have been exposed to COVID-19, please follow the CDC guidelines for exposure, which state that if you are a close contact of someone who has COVID, you are required to wear a mask when around others for 10 days from your last day of exposure to that person, and test on day five after exposure. Close contacts are not required to isolate, and may continue with normal activities while wearing a mask as long as they remain symptom-free. We continue to recommend frequent hand washing as a key preventive measure.

I'm vaccinated and up to date. Can I still get a COVID infection?

It is important to remember that vaccination is not a guarantee against infection. The purpose and power of vaccines comes from their ability to teach and strengthen our immune systems to more effectively identify and fight viruses, in this case the virus that causes COVID, thereby avoiding serious illness despite potential exposure. Vaccination is the best way to minimize exposure and prevent serious illness and community spread.

Are tests available on campus?

Yes. Free at-home tests are available for students at the front entrance to Health and Counseling Services in Robbins Annex. Students who would like to be seen by a provider can schedule an appointment through the Student Health Portal or by calling Bard Health Services. Students who test positive should email [email protected] or call Health Services at 845-758-7433.

What support services are available for students who are struggling around COVID-19?

Bard College remains cognizant and concerned about the disparate impact of this pandemic on people of color and individuals from financially challenged backgrounds, and the additional stress and anxiety during these difficult times.
 

May I host visitors on campus?

Yes, you may host visitors on campus, including in the residence halls. 

We expect all visitors on campus to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Prospective visitors who are unvaccinated may visit campus facilities, providing they test negative for COVID within 24 hours before coming to campus. Anyone experiencing COVID symptoms should refrain from coming to campus.

Is the main campus open to the public?

Yes, the Bard College campus in Annandale is now open to the community. Bard College performances, exhibitions, and academic events are also open.

We expect all visitors on campus to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Prospective visitors who are unvaccinated may visit campus facilities, providing they test negative for COVID within 24 hours before coming to campus. Anyone experiencing COVID symptoms should refrain from coming to campus.

Bard College is a “mask-friendly” campus. With this policy, we have lifted the indoor mask mandate, but encourage anyone who wishes to wear a mask to do so.