COVID-19 Vaccine Information for Students
Updated: October 6, 2026
The 2026-2027 COVID-19 Vaccine is Recommended for All Students
New York City and New York State Health Departments (NYDOH) endorse 2026–2027 vaccination for respiratory virus season. Vaccination against COVID-19 remains the most effective defense to prevent severe COVID-19 disease outcomes, including long COVID. COVID-19 vaccines are covered by most insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare. In New York State, anyone who wants a COVID-19 vaccine can get one.
New immunization guidance from NYDOH indicate that anyone 6 months and older should get a COVID-19 vaccine:
- All adults ages 65 and older, and all chilren ages 6 to 23 months
- People who are pregnant or recently gave birth
- People of any age who have an underlying condition that increases their risk for severe COVID-19
- People at high risk of exposure, such as health care workers and people living or working in a nursing home or other congregate setting
- People living with someone with an underlying condition that increases their risk for severe COVID-19
- People who have never been vaccinated before
- 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.