Columbia University Health Services

Who has to submit immunization documentation?
All students registered for six (6) or more credits have to submit proof of immunity to Measles, Mumps, and Rubella.

Where is your office located?
The Immunization Office is located on the main floor of Wien Hall . We are open Monday through Friday, from 9:00am to 5:00pm .

I have additional questions. Do you provide individual responses?
Yes, you may email your questions to
hs-enrollment@columbia.edu. We usually respond within one (1) business day.

How will I be notified of my immunization compliance?
Immunization documentation is processed in the order in which we receive it. We will send you an email. You will be advised if you need to provide additional information, if you need additional inoculations, or if you are fully compliant. At the start of the academic year, this may take from four (4) to six (6) weeks from our receipt of your documentation.

How do I submit my immunization documentation?
Completed forms may be submitted in the following ways:

By mail: Immunization Office, Wien Hall – Main Floor, 411 W. 116^th Street, MC 3712, New York, NY 10027

By fax: 212 854 5078
If you fax your documentation, please make sure to include your full name, date of birth, CUID, and school you will attend on the form. It cannot be processed without this information. We cannot verify receipt of individual documents so please keep a copy of your fax confirmation. We do provide email confirmation later in the semester.

I n person: You may also drop off your immunization documentation. The Immunization Office is located in Wien Hall, Main Floor . The office is open Monday through Friday, 9:00am–5:00pm .

NOTE: Please keep a copy of your immunization documents for your records.

What is needed to complete the immunization requirement?
New York State Public Health Law requires that students born on or after January 1, 1957 provide proof of immunity to Measles, Mumps, and Rubella if they are registered for six (6) or more credits. All students are also required to document a decision regarding meningococcal meningitis vaccine. Failure to comply with the requirements may prevent students from registering for the following semester.

Proof of MMR immunity may be demonstrated by any of the following ways:

1. Documentation of two doses of measles vaccine (the first dose administered no more than 4 days prior to first birthday and second dose administered 15 months of age and at least 28 days after first dose) and one dose each of mumps (administered after first birthday) and rubella vaccine (administered after first birthday). Paperwork must show complete date of vaccine administration. The MMR combined vaccination (know as an MMR booster) fulfills the requirement for 1 measles, 1 mumps, and 1 rubella immunization; a second measles shot is required. MMR was not available in the US before 1/1/72; therefore, no immunization administered before this date is acceptable for US students.

2. Documentation from physician stating history of the disease (for measles and mumps only). Physician must enter the dates of initial diagnosis on immunization form. A diagnosis of previous rubella disease is not acceptable proof of immunity under the New York State Health Code.

3. Immunity to all of the three diseases may be proven by a blood test for antibodies. The test is known as a titer. You must provide a copy of the actual laboratory report with the immunization form in order for this information to be processed for you.

4. Copies of immunization records from another college or university may also be submitted. Attach the copies to the university’s immunization form. Complete the top portion of the form only. Since the requirements vary in different states, your documentation is reviewed to see if it meets New York State standards. You will be notified by email of your compliance status.

Meningococcal Meningitis Requirement
You may document your decision regarding the meningococcal meningitis vaccine online . You will be asked to login with your Columbia ID (known as a UNI) and password. Here you will record and submit your decision. This satisfies the requirement.

What is the deadline for new students?
It is recommended that fall entrants submit immunization documentation before arriving on campus but no later than August 31. The deadline for students arriving in the spring semester is January 31.

I have been accepted to Columbia as a graduate student. I provided MMR documentation while I was an undergraduate student. Do you still have my records?
We maintain immunization documentation for seven (7) years. If you were fully compliant during your undergraduate time, your information will carry forward, and you will not be required to provide additional MMR documentation. We recommend that you email us to verify that you were fully compliant at
hs-enrollment@columbia.edu . Please include your full name, date of birth, university identification number and the date that you entered Columbia so we can review your records.

I am a visiting student at Columbia . Do I also have to meet the immunization requirement?
Yes, it is required that all students registered for six (6) or more credits submit immunization documentation.

Is it sufficient to submit immunization documents from my undergraduate university or college?
Yes, students may submit copies of their immunization documentation from another university or college for review. Please include the university’s immunization form (with the top portion completed by the student).

How do I submit my immunization documentation?
Completed forms may be submitted in the following ways:

By mail: Immunization Office, Wien Hall – Main Floor, 411 W. 116^th Street, MC 3712, New York, NY 10027

By fax: 212 854 5078
If you fax your documentation, please make sure to include your full name, date of birth, CUID and school you will attend on the form. It cannot be processed without this information. We cannot verify receipt of individual documents so please keep a copy of your fax confirmation. We do provide email confirmation later in the semester.

In person: You may also drop off your immunization documentation. The Immunization Office is located in Wien Hall, Main Floor.

The office is open Monday through Friday, 9:00am–5:00pm.

NOTE: Please keep a copy of your immunization documents for your records.

Since the requirements vary in different states, your documentation is reviewed to see if it meets New York State standards. You will be notified by email of your compliance status.

Where can I get my vaccinations ?
Students who are unable to complete their immunization requirement before arriving on campus may schedule an appointment at Health Services for immunizations. The cost of testing or immunizations is not covered by the health service fee or most medical insurance plans. Please see below for fees.

Testing for Immunity to MMR:
Blood Test for Measles, Mumps, Rubella Antibodies $80.00
Blood Test for Measles Antibodies $46.50
Blood Test for Mumps Antibodies $65.00
Blood Test for Rubella Antibodies $35.00

Once you are registered as a student, you may schedule by either calling your Practice Group or the general appointment line (for students who have not been seen at Health Services previously) at 212 854 7426. Health Services is located on the third and fourth floors of John Jay Hall.

Free immunizations are also available at: Chelsea Health Center , 303 Ninth Avenue (between 27^th & 28^th Street ), First Floor, New York , NY , 212 676 2273. Hours of Operation: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday 8:30am – 2:30pm .

Please remember to submit the documentation of your receiving the immunization to the Immunization Office on the main floor of Wien Hall so it can be recorded for you.

In my country, there is no measles, mumps, and rubella requirement. What should I do?
We recommend that you complete your immunizations before you arrive for classes. If that is not possible, you may receive the inoculations or be tested for immunity at Health Services (by appointment) for the following fees:

Fees for testing for immunity to MMR:
Blood test for Measles, Mumps, Rubella antibodies $80.00
Blood test for Measles antibodies $46.50
Blood test for Mumps antibodies $65.00
Blood test for Ruebella antibodies $35.00

Free immunizations are also available at the Chelsea Health Center . It is located at 303 Ninth Avenue (between 27^th & 28^th Streets). The hours of operation are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8:30 AM to 2:30PM . The phone number is 212 676-2273.

We recommend that you do that as soon as you arrive since there are some clinical timing indications on receiving the measles inoculation.

Where can I find the immunization forms for my physician to complete?
Immunization forms can be found online. Students should complete the top portion of the form. Once the physician or health care provider has completed Section A OR Section B. We recommend that you make a copy for your records before sending it in.

Are there exemptions to the requirement?
Yes, there are two ways to document and request exemption from the immunization requirement.

Medical exemption: You may provide the Medical Director with a letter from your physician requesting a medical exemption from further immunization. Usually, you will be asked to meet with the Medical Director to discuss your request. You will then be notified in writing if either a temporary or permanent exemption has been granted. If a temporary exemption is given, you will be expected to complete the requirement at the exemption’s expiration.

Religious exemption: Most religious groups which object to immunizations will provide you with a standard form indicating the objection. You may also submit a letter explaining the religious basis of your objection. Usually you are asked to meet with the Medical Director to discuss your request. You will be notified in writing if the exemption has been granted.
T o determine what documentation you must provide, you may email your question to hs-enrollment@columbia.edu or visit the Immunization Office in Wien Hall, Main Floor . The office is open Monday to Friday from 9:00am–5:00pm .

I lost or misplaced my immunization documentation. What should I do?
If you cannot provide documentation, we recommend that you take a blood test known as a titer to determine your immunity. If you are immune then you won’t need to take additional action. If not, you will be notified by email of the inoculations you will need to become compliant.

I’ve been advised that I need a second measles shot to become compliant. Do you offer this single measles vaccine?
We don’t offer the individual measles shot at Health Services, but we can provide you with the MMR booster shot by appointment. Free immunizations are also available at the Chelsea Health Center . It is located at 303 Ninth Avenue (between 27^th & 28^th Streets). The hours of operation are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8:30 AM to 2:30PM . The phone number is 212 676-2273.

What happens if I don’t get the second measles vaccine?
You are not compliant by New York State standards without the second measles shot. We may place a hold on your future registration if you fail to get the second measles inoculation. Please remember to provide the documentation of your second measles shot to the staff in the Immunization Office on the main floor of Wien Hall so your records are accurately updated.

I am an international student and had my vaccinations administered at home. Is this acceptable?
Health Services will review the documentation to see if you meet New York State’s Public Health requirements. Please ensure that your form is completed properly and includes the day, month year and dose(s) administered as well as the physician’s or other health care provider’s signature and stamp. Students should complete the top portion of the University’s form and attach any supporting documentation to it. Please make a copy of the completed form for your records before you submit it.

In my country there is no measles mumps and rubella requirement. What should I do?
Health Services strongly recommends that you complete your immunization requirement before you arrive for classes. If that is not possible, then you may schedule an appointment for the inoculations at Health Services once you have registered for classes.

Free immunizations are also available at the Chelsea Health Center located at 303 Ninth Avenue (between 27th and 28th Streets). The current hours of operation are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 8:30am to 2:30pm. You may call them to confirm at 212 676 2273.

We recommend that you complete this as soon as you arrive since there are some clinical timing indications on receiving the measles inoculation.

Please keep in mind that the deadline for completing this requirement is August 31 for fall entrants and January 31 for spring entrants.

I think that I have been immunized but I don’t have documentation to prove this. What can I do?
Health Services recommends that you visit your local provider or physician and request a blood test known as a titer. This test determines your immunity to measles, mumps and rubella. If you are not immune you should be vaccinated before you arrive on campus. Your physician should complete the University’s immunization form for you to submit.

What is a Columbia University identification number or UNI?
Your UNI or University Network ID is the key to accessing computer services and electronic resources at Columbia. Every student is assigned one of these unique identifiers consisting of your initials plus an arbitrary number. You can establish your UNI through the CUIT website. The will also allow Health Services to record you immunization documentation.

How can I document my immunization information?
Immunization forms can be found online at the Health Services website. Students should complete the top portion of the form. Your physician or provider should complete Section A or B. Health Services recommends that you make a copy for your records before submitting the form.

My spouse and children will be joining me while I study at Columbia. Does my family need to submit immunization information to the university?
No they do not. The University is responsible only for documenting and reporting on students’ immunization compliance.

Should I document my nine digit university identification number on the immunization form?
No. The University recommends that students do not record this Number either on forms or in email. Please use your Columbia University UNI.

I lost or misplaced my immunization documentation. What should I do?
If you cannot provide documentation, Health Services recommends that you take a blood test known as a titer to determine your immunity. If you are immune then you won’t need to take additional action. The laboratory documentation must be attached to your immunization form if you prove your immunity in this manner. The test can be performed by your local physician or at Primary Care Medical Services for a fee once you have registered.  If your test results indicate that you are not immune, you will be notified by email of the inoculations you will need to become compliant.

Do I also need to submit documentation for Meningitis?
No. The meningitis vaccine is optional for all students. Please note that the University is required by New York State to record a meningitis decision for you.

I attended or graduated from Columbia   University and would like to get copies of my immunization records.
Students are provided with a screen shot copy of their MMR records. The Immunization Office can fax or mail a copy to the student only. This is to protect the confidentiality of your health care information. You will be asked to provide information on the dates when you attended Columbia , your date of birth and Columbia   University identification number. We maintain records for seven (7) years. We also recommend that students maintain a copy for their records before submitting it to their new school. 

Students who have received email regarding partial and non-compliant status.
Once the deadline for providing documentation has passed, Health Services sends a mass email to students notifying them if they are not fully compliant. We also notify your Dean who may then contact you. These messages are intended to prevent you from having a registration hold placed on your account.

I thought that I submitted all the documents for my immunization requirement however, I received an email asking for this information. Why?
If you have already submitted documentation of immunity, it is likely that the information does not fulfill all of New York   State 's requirements.  Many students who have received a single dose of either the Measles or MMR vaccine are unaware that the NY state public health law requires two doses of the measles vaccine. Students in this category must obtain a second dose of the MMR vaccine to be fully compliant. If you are not sure why you are not compliant, you may contact us at 
hs-enrollment@columbia.edu or you may leave a message at 212 854 7210. Please include your name and university identification number so we can review your records. We usually respond within one (1) business day.

I am going to have my records faxed to health services. How do I make sure that I do this correctly?
Our recommendation is that you have the records sent to you and that you make a copy before you submit them. Often, we are unable to process documentation because the student’s name is not included. Please make sure that your full name, date of birth, and Social Security Number or Columbia University Identification is included on the documentation that is submitted.

I have already attended another school in New York City , and provided immunization documentation. Why should I resubmit forms?
New York   State has very strict public health laws that apply to students at colleges and universities across the state. Because of past experience with outbreaks of certain infectious illnesses on college campuses, the law states that you may not attend school unless you adequately document immunity to measles, mumps and rubella, and document your decision regarding the meningococcal meningitis vaccine. Students must provide documentation of immunization at every university and college attended in New York   State .

Will I be notified if there is a problem with my record?
Yes, we notify all students of their immunization compliance by email.

What happens if I don’t provide measles, mumps, and rubella information?
To ensure that the University is at minimum risk for an outbreak, we are required to enforce New York   State immunization requirements. Students who fail to comply will not be permitted to register for the following semester.

If I am in the process of completing the vaccinations, will I be permitted to register before having the second dose?
Yes, you may register after receiving the first dose. Since it is medically necessary that you wait for at least 28 days between MMR vaccines, you are granted temporary compliance for 28 days from the date on which the first vaccine was administered. You will become fully compliant after having and submitting proof of the second dose.

I was told that the hold on my account would be lifted. I am still blocked from registering for my courses. Why?
A registration hold on your account usually takes up to 24 hours to be removed after the Immunization Office has verified your vaccination compliance. You also should check that you have properly completed the online meningococcal meningitis requirement.  Please allow this time for the hold to be released.