Early College Vaccine Requirement Information
The University of Maine System will require COVID-19 vaccination of all students, including Early College students, engaged in courses that take place at a University campus. Students who verify their status or get their first shot toward full immunity by Aug. 20 will remain eligible to participate in on-campus activities in the fall semester. Students who do not verify their vaccination status or receive an exemption will exclude themselves from participation in on-campus activities this fall. Additional information about the new vaccine requirement can be found on the University of Maine System news site.
As noted in the student agreement and parent consent form in ExplorEC, students agree to abide by the guidelines of the Early College Program as well as the University policies and procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do students share their vaccination records?
- Students will use the Pointnclick Web App to verify their immunization status. Please note it may take 24-72 hours for the status to be updated after submission. As long as the thumbnail is visible the student will be all set. Please visit our vaccination verification page for a guide to vaccine verification.
- Students will need access to their MaineStreet account. For help logging into MaineStreet or submitting vaccine documents, contact the Information Technology (IT) Help Desk.
Will there be an option for students to take the course via zoom if they are unable to attend in person?
- No, if the class is listed as an on-campus course, students must follow vaccine protocols and attend all in-person classes. In a small number of cases there may be an equivalent online course. The campus early college office will reach out to you if there is an online alternative.
Are there any exemptions?
- Students who participate in courses located only at their high school and taught by their high school teacher are exempt.
- Students who participate solely in remote learning (i.e. fully online or web synchronous) will be exempt from the vaccination requirement.
- Students may receive an exemption to the vaccine requirement for a documented medical contraindication or a sincerely held religious belief. Exempted students and those individuals in the process of becoming fully vaccinated will be required to participate in asymptomatic screening, face covering requirements, and other safety practices to participate in on-campus activities.
How do students apply for a medical or religious exemption?
- Directions can be found at the Vaccine Exemption Request page. Students will need access to their University of Maine System account. If you need assistance with your account or the Pointnclick Web App, please contact the IT Help Desk.
What do students need to do if they can no longer participate in their in-person course?
- Students may log-in to their account in ExplorEC and select Drop/WD requests. There will be no penalty for students who withdraw during the add/drop period. Students may apply for an online course, but UMS cannot guarantee availability as courses fill quickly.
Who do I contact if I have questions about the new vaccine requirement?
- The University of Maine has a comprehensive website with additional vaccine information (External Site). This information applies to all Early College students at all campuses.
- Additionally, those in a higher risk category or with severe illness or underlying health conditions or other applicable circumstances that may impact their ability to be vaccinated or comply with any pandemic protocols may contact the University of Maine System American with Disabilities Act coordinator at: 101 North Stevens Hall, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469-5754; 207.581.1226, TTY 711 (Maine Relay System); adacoordinator@maine.edu.