Policies
The Chief Health Office works closely with University leadership and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health to shape and implement policies that promote the health and safety of the Boston University community. Through these collaborations, the office ensures that institutional practices align with public health standards, regulatory requirements, and emerging best practices across higher education and healthcare.
BU COVID-19 Vaccination Policies
General population
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) 2025–26 COVID-19 vaccine recommendations can be found on their website. All individuals may receive one dose of the 2025–26 COVID-19 vaccine.
Healthcare personnel working in Boston University DPH-licensed healthcare facilities
DPH-licensed healthcare personnel are required to have an up-to-date COVID-19 vaccination or submit a declination after reviewing the risks and benefits of vaccination.
Medical, dental, and physician assistant students
Medical, dental, and physician assistant students are required to have an up-to-date COVID-19 vaccination or submit a declination after reviewing the risks and benefits of vaccination.
MDPH reporting measures and compliance will be closely monitored in fall 2025.
DPH-Licensed Clinic Policies
Some Boston University clinical units serve the general public, while others serve only members of the BU community. BU clinical units that are licensed through the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and serve the general public have additional policies and requirements. Learn more about these requirements on the BU Healthcare Compliance website (requires Kerberos login).
Student Excuse Note Policy
Students may experience a range of illnesses throughout the academic year that will necessitate absences from class and clemency from professors. We encourage students to prioritize their health and that of their classmates and faculty, and to proactively reach out to their professors if they are unwell for any reason, as we do not provide medical excuse letters.
As a reminder, the standing University Procedure on Clemency reads:
Disability & Access Services is the only office that may grant accommodations for students with permanent or temporary disabilities. In the absence of a disabling condition, when a student is in need of a short-term release from an academic requirement, they should request clemency from their professors.
