COVID-19 Vaccine Information for Students

Updated: September 19, 2025

The 2025-2026 COVID-19 Vaccine is Recommended for All Students

The currently available guidance from the New York Department of Public Health (NYDOH) on 2025-2026 COVID-19 Immunization Guidance for Adults indicates that vaccination against COVID-19 remains the most effective defense to prevent severe COVID-19 disease outcomes.

  • All adults 65 years and older should be vaccinated
  • Adults 19-64 years with risk factors for severe COVID-19 disease (e.g., chronic conditions, immunocompromised status) should be vaccinated 
  • Adults 19-64 years at higher risk of exposure (e.g., healthcare workers, congregate care settings) should be vaccinated
  • Adults 19-64 who are who are household contacts of persons at high risk of severe disease should be vaccinated
  • For adults without underlying conditions, vaccination remains recommended as it reduces the risk of symptomatic infection, severe illness, and death.

On September 5, 2025, Governor Hochul signed an Executive Order to ensure all New Yorkers can easily receive the updated 2025-26 COVID-19 vaccine without a prescription. The Executive Order declares an emergency that overrides recent federal actions that restrict vaccine access.

For Students Enrolled in Clinical Programs

Clinical sites where students are placed may require proof of a primary series of the COVID-19 vaccine or an approved medical exemption. To streamline the medical clearance process, clinical students may submit proof of vaccination so Student Health on Haven can assist with clinical site compliance requirements. All vaccine documentation must be uploaded to our Student Health Portal.

Vaccines Received from Other Sites

COVID-19 vaccine appointments can be made via vaccinetogetherny.org or through your Connect account (if you use ColumbiaDoctors providers).

Additionally, the COVID-19 vaccine is available at many pharmacies and other locations in the metropolitan New York City area. COVID Vaccine Finder by State can help you find a convenient location in your community.

If you received a COVID vaccine from any site other than Student Health on Haven (including any other University-run vaccination site), you may upload your vaccine documentation in the ‘Medical Clearances’ section of the Student Health Portal. Acceptable proof of vaccination includes, but is not limited, to the following:

  • CDC COVID-19 Vaccine Card
  • WHO Vaccine Booklet
  • Documentation provided by a health care professional/organization/country

You must submit all documentation in English or accompanied by a certified translation (at the student’s expense).

Verification of documentation is at the sole discretion of Student Health on Haven. Additional information or documentation may be requested and must be provided to verify a submission.

Uploading Your Documentation

All CUIMC students should use our Student Health Portal to upload vaccination documentation. Student Health on Haven will review the documentation and reach out to students if additional information is needed or if the documentation submitted is insufficient.

Download Instructions on How to Upload Your Vaccination Documentation (PDF).

All records must include the following:

  • Student Name
  • Date of Birth
  • Name of vaccine received
  • Date of vaccination(s)
  • Provider name, signature, or stamp

Privacy Policy

Student Health on Haven makes every effort to protect the privacy of submitted information. Please review our Vaccination Status Privacy Notice for more details.