Your Questions Answered
Question: Do I need to complete a COVID-19 test before coming back to campus?
Answer: Residential undergraduate students moving in or returning to campus after Jan. 7 will need to conduct a rapid antigen test before arrival, as well as a PCR test when they move in no less than 24 hours after arrival. Detailed instructions can be found on the
Student Housing Safety webpage.
If you are not a residential student, you do not need to complete a COVID-19 test before coming to campus. Instead, all students and employees, regardless of vaccination status, are required to complete a PCR test on the day of their return to campus (unless they have been COVID-19 positive within the last 90 days). We also strongly recommend testing 24 to 48 hours prior to your arrival if possible. Tests are available on campus via
self-administered test kit vending machines or by appointment at the Price Center clinic. Employees conducting their first-ever COVID-19 test must make an appointment at the Price Center clinic or a drive thru testing site. You do not need to wait for a result before arriving on campus.
Question: How do I submit documentation of a COVID-19 vaccination or booster received outside of UC San Diego Health?
Question: How long does protection from a COVID-19 booster last?
Answer: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has stated that it is not certain yet how long COVID-19 vaccine protection lasts. Recent studies show that protection against the virus may decrease over time. This reduction in protection has led CDC to recommend that everyone ages 18 years and older get a booster shot after completing their primary vaccination series. At this time, only one COVID-19 booster shot is recommended. The CDC continues to review evidence and will update guidance as more information becomes available.
See more frequently asked questions from the CDC.