Who is required to submit immunization information and what immunizations are required?
Any student under the age of 26 attending school in the District of Columbia is required to submit proof that they have been immunized against:

• two vaccinations against Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR), given after 1 year of age and at least 30 days apart,
• one Diphtheria/Tetanus booster given within the past ten years,
• two doses of Varicella (Chicken Pox) vaccine 60 days apart or titer results indicating immunity,
• a series of three Hepatitis B immunizations administered over a 6 month period. The second dose should have been administered 30 days after dose one, and the third dose should have been administered 4 months after dose two. Students who received the Hepatitis B vaccination under a different administration schedule should provide titer results proving immunity.
• Students residing on campus must also be immunized against meningocccal meningitis or sign a waiver stating that they are aware of the risks of meningitis and do not wish to be immunized against the disease.
• Students under the age of 18 must also show proof of being vaccinated against polio.

Does the University require an entrance physical?
No, American University does not require a physical for newly admitted students.  

What additional vaccines are recommended?
The Student Health Center recommends that all female students receive the HPV vaccination. The Student Health Center also recommends that resident students, students who will be volunteering in the community, or students who have traveled abroad receive a TB test prior to coming to American University.

If I am in the process of completing any of the vaccines that require multiple doses, will I be permitted to register for classes?
Yes. As long as you are in the process of completing the immunization requirements you will be able to register for classes. However, a stop will be put on your account if you do not complete the immunization series.

If I have my own copy of health and immunization records, is it still necessary to complete the Mandatory Immunization form?
Yes. The Mandatory Immunization Form must be submitted in its original format. You must complete the form and have it signed and stamped by a medical provider.  

Is the Meningococcal (Meningitis) vaccine required?
The Meningococcal vaccine is required for all first year students living in university sponsored housing. If you do not wish to be vaccinated against meningitis you must sign a waiver stating that you are aware of the risks of meningitis.  

What can I do if I cannot access my prior immunization records?
If you do not have access to your prior immunization records, you will need to have a blood test called a blood titer. A blood titer will show if you have either had the disease in the past, or have immunity based on prior vaccination.

I did not have the varicella (chicken pox) vaccination because I contracted the chicken pox. What do I need to do?
If you did not have the varicella (chicken pox) vaccination, but had the disease, you will need to present blood titer results for varicella (chicken pox).

Are all of the required immunizations available at the Student Health Center?
Yes, all of the required immunizations can be administered at the Student Health Center. Please refer to our fee schedule for the costs of each immunization.  

What do I need to do if I wish to be exempted from receiving immunizations due to my medical history or religious beliefs?
You can be granted an exemption from the mandatory immunization requirement due to medical reasons or your religious beliefs. To be granted an exemption:

• Provide a letter from your medical provider or religious leader stating the reason you wish to be exempted
• Provide copies of titer results for MMR and Varicella (chicken pox)

How can I submit my immunization records?
Completed immunization forms can be entered online by following these instructions or mailed to the address below. The Student Health Center does not accept faxed immunization forms as they often become illegible during transmission.

American University
Student Health Center
McCabe Hall – 1st Floor
4400 Massachusetts Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20016-8036