New York State Public Health Law 22165 requires that all undergraduate, graduate, and professional students demonstrate acceptable proof of immunity against measles, mumps and rubella to the school at the time of enrollment. This law applies only to students born on or after January 1, 1957.
Immunization Requirements at Bard
Bard College is mandated by New York State law to enforce this requirement. Bard College submits an annual report to the NYS Department of Health, and is also subject to audits by the State regarding the students' immunizations.
Providing proof of immunization is a preadmission requirement. Students found in violation of this requirement via NYS audit will be billed the fine, which is currently $2000.
Immunization and medical forms are due JULY 1st or 30 days prior to your first semester at Bard. Registration for classes may be blocked if the forms are not on file by the start of the semester.
Detailed Requirements for Immunizations
New York State and Bard College Requirements for Class Attendance. All information must be in English and certified by a medical provider.
Required Immunizations
1. Mumps, Measles, and Rubella: One of the following is required:
Proof of two measles, mumps, rubella vaccines (MMR1 and MMR2). MMR1 must be given after your first birthday (it may be given up to 4 days early), and MMR 2 must be given at least 28 days after MMR1.
A blood test showing immunity to measles, mumps and rubella.
2. Covid -19 Vaccine(s) will be a requirement for the 2021-2022 academic year (Read more about Bard College Covid-19 Vaccine Requirement - VACCINES) . Please upload into the medical portal a legible picture/screenshot of your Covid-19 Vaccination Card or Official Document.
3. Meningitis Response Form ( this form must be signed whether the student received the meningitis vaccine or not)
Immunization Exemptions
New York State permits ONLY the following exemptions from the MMR immunization requirement: If you were born after January 1, 1957
Students with a MEDICAL contraindication to a specific vaccine. Sufficient documentation must be submitted by the student's medical provider, stating the reason for the contraindication and an end date, if applicable.
Students with a strong RELIGIOUS conviction against vaccination. To request this exemption, you are required to submit a signed statement that explains in your own words why you are requesting this exemption and describes the religious principles that guide your objection to immunization. Please also indicate whether you are opposed to all immunizations, and if not all, the religious basis that prohibits particular immunizations. If the student is under 18 at the time of admission, the form will need to be signed by the parent/guardian, and the student will need to resubmit the documentation once they are 18 years old. Bard College requires that this form be notarized by a notary public, and may require additional supporting documents. This request may need to be reviewed by the NYS Department of Health prior to approval.
Health Service will notify you as to the approval or denial of your request. If the request is denied, the notification will include specific reasons for denial. You can appeal a denial to the NYS Dept of Health Immunization Program within 30 days.
New York State law does not accept PHILOSOPHICAL waivers. Under Department of Health regulation 10 NYCRR, Section 66-1.3 (d), philosophical, scientific, political, or sociological objections to immunizations do not justify an exemption.
In the event of a measles, mumps, or rubella case on campus, students who are not immunized will be required to receive the necessary vaccine, if possible, or leave campus for a period of time determined by the incubation period of the particular disease at their own expense.
PLEASE CALL TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT. Please be advised that we have a new electronic medical record system so please allow extra time for intake.
Questions? Call us at 845-758-7433 and we will get back to you today.
Appointments Students are seen by appointment only. You can schedule an appointment by calling 845-758-7433.
Reminders You must know what your current health insurance coverage is and bring a copy of your card to your appointment. 845-758-7433
Location and Hours
We are located in Robbins House Annex on North Campus with Counseling Services.
We are in the first white building on the left as you head down Robbins Road towards Manor and the Fisher Center. Find us on the campus map Phone: 845-758-7433 Fax: 845-758-7437 E-mail:healthservice@bard.edu Hours: Monday– Friday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm