FAQs

Below is a list of common questions. The health and safety of our students, faculty, and staff is our top priority. Continue to check this page for updates.

Harrisonburg campus students should call or text 540-421-3406 to report if you are symptomic, have been exposed or have tested positive for COVID-19. For all emergencies, please contact 911.

Harrisonburg campus employees only need to call to report a positive test or if they have questions regarding COVID.

Vaccination Athletics Admissions Lancaster Employees

Harrisonburg Campus Spring Semester 2022 Updates

What is EMU's current policy on masking? [updated 3/7/22]

Masking are optional in indoor spaces at EMU. Any person who feels more comfortable wearing a mask is encouraged to do so.

All students, faculty, staff and visitors are expected to have a mask with them at all times. Masks will still be available in all campus buildings.

Instructors may require students to wear masks in their classes. Instructors are responsible for notifying students if they will require masks before classes resume after spring break. Students are expected to comply with the instructor’s mask direction as their decision is informed by what is best for them in maintaining a healthy classroom learning environment. Students and staff may ask the same of one another when meeting together.

This change comes in part from new CDC guidelines on masking (issued Feb. 25).

EMU will continue to adapt campus protocols with continued monitoring of COVID trends on campus and in the Harrisonburg/Rockingham community.

Updated 3/7/2022
What is EMU's policy about COVID-19 vaccinations and booster shots for students? [updated 1/22]

Notification of vaccination status was required though EMU Health Services prior to the start of fall 2021 classes and for new students beginning their studies in spring semester 2022. Note that some services and activities may be unavailable to unvaccinated students.

For those who are vaccinated, getting the booster shot is highly recommended.

Send a copy of your vaccination card or updated vaccination card with booster shot information to covidhotline@emu.edu or upload to https://emu.medicatconnect.com/.

Visit the CDC website for information about vaccines or to locate vaccine availability where you live, follow this link to a CDC webpage that searches by zipcode.

EMU EMPLOYEES, please see more information in the Employee section.

Updated 1/3/2022
What do I do if I am symptomatic for COVID-19? [updated 1/22]
Harrisonburg campus students should call or text 540-421-3406 to report if you are symptomic, have been exposed or have tested positive for COVID-19.

Harrisonburg campus employees only need to call to report a positive test or if they have questions regarding COVID.

If you are vaccinated:
- Call or text the COVID hotline at 540-421-3406.
- Get tested. EMU students may be tested at EMU Health Services or use a rapid-antigen self test. Employees may use a rapid-antigen self-test (free through Health Services) or get tested at a local facility.
- Report positive results to the COVID hotline, including a picture of the positive test if using one of the rapid-antigen self-tests offered by EMU.
- Isolate for 5 days.
- On the morning of Day 6, re-test. Negative antigen test result must be emailed to covidhotline@emu.edu and acknowledged before release from isolation.
- If still positive, re-test on Day 8.
- Continue to wear a mask at all times for a total of 10 days.
If you are not vaccinated:
- Call or text the COVID hotline at 540-421-3406.
- Get tested. EMU students may be tested at EMU Health Services or use one of the rapid-antigen self-tests available outside of the Student Life Suite in University Commons. Employees may use a rapid-antigen self-test or get tested at a local facility.
- Report positive results to the COVID hotline, including a picture of the positive test.
- Isolate for 5 days.
- Retest with a rapid antigen test on the morning of Day 6. A negative antigen test result must be emailed to covidhotline@emu.edu and acknowledged before release from isolation.
- If still positive, re-test on Day 8.
- Continue to wear a mask in public, indoor and outdoor spaces for 10 days.
Updated 1/3/2022
What if I am exposed to COVID-19? [updated 1/22]
Harrisonburg campus students should call or text 540-421-3406 to report if you are symptomic, have been exposed or have tested positive for COVID-19.

Harrisonburg campus employees only need to call to report a positive test or if they have questions regarding COVID.

If you are vaccinated:
- Wear a mask indoors and outdoors at all times for 10 days regardless of whether you are symptomatic or asymptomatic. You do not need to quarantine, unless you are symptomatic.
- On Day 3 after exposure, complete a rapid antigen test.
- Students may be tested at EMU Health Services or use a rapid antigen self-test provided by EMU. Employees may use a rapid-antigen self-test or get tested at a local facility.
- If symptomatic before Day 3 after exposure, get a rapid antigen test. If positive, follow the instructions for testing positive.
- If you experience symptoms after an initial negative test result, repeat the test.
If you are unvaccinated:
- You are required to quarantine for 10 days as soon as you know you have been exposed. Residential students will be notified about quarantine procedures when you call the COVID hotline.
- Get a rapid antigen test on Day 3 after exposure and again on Day 5 after exposure. Students may be tested at EMU Health Services. Employees may use a rapid-antigen self-test or get tested at a local facility.
- If the rapid antigen test is positive at any time during the 10 days of quarantine, then the isolation protocol for unvaccinated is followed.
- If you test negative and are asymptomatic, you may be released from quarantine on Day 10.
Updated 1/2/22
How can I get a test for COVID-19?

Students may be tested at Health Services.

Employees, please look for this question in the employee section.

Updated 1/7/2022
How do I report results of a positive rapid antigen self-test?

Send a photo of your results via email to covidhotline@emu.edu and text to the COVID hotline at 540-421-3406.

Updated 1/7/2022
What information should I include when I leave a message on the COVID Hotline?
- Your full name
- Your call back number
- If reporting a positive test - the date and time you tested
Updated 1/7/2022
What happens if a residential student gets sick during the spring semester with COVID? [updated 1/22]

EMU will provide testing for students who are sick. If a residential student is unable to return home, isolation space will be provided for the required period of time. EMU's Covid Care Team will continue to support students in quarantine or isolation.

Updated 1/7/2022
How is EMU tracking COVID-19 on campus?

Monitoring of the health of our community is required by the VDH. Health Services, HR and Student Life are active partners in the monitoring.

The COVID-19 dashboard provides information about current case numbers.

Harrisonburg campus students should call or text 540-421-3406 to report if you are symptomic, have been exposed or have tested positive for COVID-19.

Harrisonburg campus employees only need to call to report a positive test or if they have questions regarding COVID. If you are tested at a facility outside of EMU and you test positive, you will need to report it to your supervisor and to the COVID Hotline.

Updated 1/17/2022
What cleaning/disinfection measures are in place?
Custodial services will return to pre-COVID cleaning routines Monday-Friday, 6 a.m.-3 p.m. Priority will be given to classrooms, restrooms, and public spaces.
- Restrooms and public spaces in residence halls will be cleaned daily, Monday through Friday.
- Classroom spaces will be cleaned based upon 25Live reservations.
- Disinfectant wipes are available in classrooms for student and faculty use.
- Office service will be limited to trash removal and vacuuming on a weekly basis. Additional trash bags are provided in the bottom of office trash cans. If trash needs to be emptied in the interim, it may be placed in a hall waste can.
- Cleaning supplies will be provided to offices as requested.
- Cleaning logs will be maintained in all public restrooms.
- Handwashing facilities and access to alcohol-based hand sanitizers are available in all buildings.
Updated 12/15/21

Vaccination Information for Harrisonburg Students

For more information on why we are requiring vaccination and what resources are available to you visit emu.edu/coronavirus/vaccination

How do I get a vaccine?

To locate vaccine availability where you live, follow this link to a CDC webpage that searches by zipcode.

If you live in Virginia, the Virginia Department of Health has a website to register for vaccination.
How do I share my vaccination status with EMU?

Notification of vaccination status will be required through EMU Health Services by August 2.

Copies of vaccination cards to update your EMU health record can be emailed to covidhotline@emu.edu or https://emu.medicatconnect. com/.
When do I need to be vaccinated by?

Students who will attend in-person classes on the Harrisonburg campus must share your proof of vaccination by August 2. To be considered fully vaccinated you will need to obtain your second Pfizer or Moderna vaccination or your shot of the J&J vaccine at least two weeks prior to coming to campus.
What happens if a residential student misses the vaccination deadline or is not completely vaccinated by the time he/she moves onto campus?

You will need to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result within 48 hours of entering campus.

If you intend to get vaccinated, we will help you find a vaccination clinic.
If I choose not to get the vaccine, can I still live on campus?

You must fill out a waiver and provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result within 48 hours of entering campus.
Will I need to be vaccinated in order to participate in athletics?

Athletes will either need to be vaccinated or will be required to participate in regular testing for COVID-19.

In the event of an outbreak of COVID-19 or exposure to COVID-19, isolation and quarantine protocol will be in place for athletes who are not vaccinated.
Who will see my vaccination status?

Your vaccination information will be a part of your electronic medical record in Health Services and will only be made available to those you have given permission to have access to your medical record.
I already had COVID-19. Do I still need to be vaccinated?

Studies have shown that you do develop immunity after having had COVID-19 but the degree of immunity varies from person to person. To ensure adequate protection, obtaining the COVID-19 vaccination is still recommended by the CDC.
How do I get a waiver for vaccinations?

If you choose to obtain an exemption, a waiver is required.

Here is the link to our waiver form and instructions: https://emu.edu/studentlife/health/docs/vaccine-waiver.pdf
What happens if a residential student gets sick during the semester with COVID?

EMU will provide isolation space for residential students and provide the services those students need for the required isolation period.
What is your policy about rooming with an unvaccinated person?

We are working out details of housing for 2021-22 and plan to have an answer to this question soon.
If I don’t get the vaccine, are there certain programs I can’t participate in?

Showing a proof of vaccination may be a requirement to participate in off-campus experiences such as practica, internships, and mentorships. In some cases, these experiences are required by pre-professional programs (for example, nursing, social work and education all require interaction with external partners at off-campus sites).

Some cross-cultural programs must conform to international travel and in-country restrictions, which now include vaccination for COVID-19 in addition to other required or recommended vaccinations and immunizations.

We plan to work with each individual student.
Does EMU recommend a booster shot?

The COVID booster shot is strongly encouraged for all students and employees; submit photos of your updated vaccine card to covidhotline@emu.edu

Athletics

What is the spectator policy for athletics competitions?

Spectators are welcome at all sporting events. Masks are required in all campus buildings at all times regardless of vaccination status. Spectators are expected to respect the wishes of those who want to practice distancing. Fans are expected to comply with host school's protocols. View a list of ODAC members' COVID protocols for visitors.

Updated 12/15/21
Is a vaccination required to participate in athletics?

Student athletes are required to submit proof of vaccination or waiver in order to participate in athletics. For more specific information, visit https://emu.edu/coronavirus/vaccination.

Updated 9/1/2021
What health protocols are in place for student-athletes?

Unvaccinated student-athletes and athletic staff will be tested with rapid antigen tests three times per week. Testing will be administered by the athletic trainers in the athletic training room. Individuals testing positive will be placed in isolation for 10 days and all unvaccinated athletes and staff associated with the team will be placed in quarantine for 14 days through contact tracing.

The athletic training room is considered a healthcare facility. As per state order, all persons entering the facility must wear a mask.

Current policies and practices may be altered based on increased positivity rates in the local community and recommendations from the Virginia Department of Health and Centers for Disease Control.

Updated 3/7/2022

Admissions

Does EMU have a deposit deadline? Is it extended due to the COVID-19 outbreak?

EMU has a rolling admissions process and does not have a deadline for students to make a college decision.

Updated 5/3/21

Is EMU’s campus open for a tour before I make a decision?

There are many ways to visit EMU that are designed to account for a wide variety of scenarios and meet prospective students/families where they are at. For more details, please see www.emu.edu/visit. In addition to an in-person visit, we invite you to explore alternative visit opportunities:

Virtual Daily Visit - schedule a meeting with your admissions counselor, financial assistance representative, professor, or coach.

Virtual Tour

Updated 12/15/21

The SAT/ACT I signed up for was canceled and I do not have a previous score. Will EMU accept my application?

Yes, EMU waived its test score requirement for fall 2020 admission and is making this a permanent change for subsequent enrollment semesters (including spring 2022 and fall 2022). EMU will continue to thoroughly review a student’s application, transcript(s), and any additional supporting application materials to make an admission decision. If more information is needed, your admissions counselor will reach out to you and let you know about the additional steps. Students may still submit SAT/ACT scores for consideration in the application review process through the test source or by emailing a PDF copy of your score report to admiss@emu.edu or your admissions counselor.

Updated 5/3/21

I am having issues getting my transcript sent. Can I submit an unofficial transcript to EMU for my application?

Yes, you may submit an unofficial transcript for initial admission review to admiss@emu.edu or your admissions counselor. Students are required to submit official transcripts prior to starting classes as an EMU student.

Reviewed 5/3/21

Will pass/no pass courses satisfy any requirement EMU has for admissions?

Yes, courses that are pass/no pass will be accepted by the school for admission review. Confirmation of graduation is required prior to starting classes as an EMU student.

Reviewed 5/3/21

Will my pass/fail courses from community college/dual enrollment classes be accepted?

Yes, they will be accepted as long as the “pass” equals a C or higher. If you have any questions, please contact your admissions counselor for more information.

Reviewed 5/3/21

I have been admitted to EMU and received a financial aid notification. However my financial situation has changed because of COVID-19, is there any additional help?

Please contact your admissions counselor or the financial assistance office to talk about options available to your specific situation.

Reviewed 5/3/21

How is class registration and summer orientation taking place?

Orientation and class registration are available both virtually and on campus. Please find more information and select a registration option at www.emu.edu/soar.

Updated 12/15/21

Are there any additional resources for parents of incoming students?

We know the college selection process is often a family decision. We invite you to visit the EMU Parents page here

Updated 12/15/21

I am planning to be a varsity athlete at EMU. How has COVID-19 impacted athletics?

Please see the athletics FAQ section.

I am considering taking a gap semester or gap year. What is EMU’s policy for deferring admission?

Students have the option to defer their admission to the following spring or fall semester. Please contact your admissions counselor or the financial assistance office to discuss any possible implications for making an informed decision. In some instances, certain grants or scholarships might be specific to a particular term.

Reviewed 12/15/21

Employees

What testing servies are available for employees?

The BinaxNow self-tests in packs of two are available to employees (one per person) at the Human Resources office on the first floor of the Campus Center. We encourage you to pick up a test now and keep it at home so that if you experience symptoms, you do not come into work or into the HR office to obtain a test. If you use one of these self-tests and test positive, please take a picture of the positive test and email a copy of the test to covidhotline@emu.edu including the date and time the test was done.

Because of limited resources, Health Services requests that employees make use of the self-test first. They will also provide testing for employees by appointment. Note that this option means that you will be seen by the medical provider and the visit will be billed to your insurance. The test is free.

Testing is also available locally at Walgreens (599 Mt. Clinton Pike), Medicap (https://www.medicap42.com/ and 2091 Pro Pointe Lane), CVS (various locations), Valley Urgent Care (119B University Ave.) and MedExpress Urgen Care (1840 E. Market St). A phone call ahead of time is suggested.

Updated 1/7/2022
What about vaccinations and booster shots for employees? [updated 1/22]

We strongly recommend that faculty and staff get vaccinated and get a booster shot. Send a copy of your vaccination card or updated vaccination card with booster shot information to covidhotline@emu.edu or upload to https://emu.medicatconnect.com/.

To locate vaccine availability where you live, follow this link to a CDC webpage that searches by zipcode.

If you are on the EMU Health Plan, a COVID vaccination is a covered expense. The booster shot is also free. More info is here.

For information about students and vaccinations, see the "Health and Safety" section or the "Fall Semester Updates" section.

Updated 1/3/22
What is EMU’s current policy regarding masking?

Masking are optional in indoor spaces at EMU. Any person who feels more comfortable wearing a mask is encouraged to do so.

All students, faculty, staff and visitors are expected to have a mask with them at all times. Masks will still be available in all campus buildings.

Instructors may require students to wear masks in their classes. Instructors are responsible for notifying students if they will require masks before classes resume after spring break. Students are expected to comply with the instructor’s mask direction as their decision is informed by what is best for them in maintaining a healthy classroom learning environment. Students and staff may ask the same of one another when meeting together.

This change comes in part from new CDC guidelines on masking (issued Feb. 25).

EMU will continue to adapt campus protocols with continued monitoring of COVID trends on campus and in the Harrisonburg/Rockingham community.

Updated 3/7/2022
What steps are supervisors taking to address workplace harassment related to COVID-19?

EMU will not tolerate the harassment of employees for any stigma surrounding COVID-19. Harassment against any employee or student who is diagnosed with COVID-19, lives with someone who is diagnosed, or is exposed, should be stopped immediately. Supervisors should establish this expectation with their employees as soon as they return to campus. Address harassment quickly and directly. Seek advice from your supervisor and Human Resources as needed.

Updated 8/16/20
Who should employees contact if they have questions not addressed in the FAQs?

Contact HR (hr@emu.edu) if you have additional questions or specific questions related to your work.

Updated 5/11/21

EMU at Lancaster

Promoting a Community of Care [reviewed and updated 3/3/22]

MITIGATION

In light of the consistent downward trend in cases and transmission levels of the COVID-19 virus in our region and beyond and CDC adjusted recommendations, EMU at Lancaster will no longer require masks in our facility. While masking will not be required, please continue to honor each other and uphold our Community of Care practices.

Mask Optional: Faculty, staff and students are invited to wear a mask and/or ask others to wear a mask in light of individual risk factors. Please have a mask available to accommodate these requests. Our facilities will remain configured to meet social distance requirements. (Beginning March 7, 2022)

If you are symptomatic, exposed, or test positive, EMU at Lancaster faculty, staff, and students should call or text the LANCASTER COVID hotline (717-844-1675) or email covid.lancaster@emu.edu.

REPORTING : Call or text the COVID hotline at 717-844-1675

What if I am symptomatic for COVID-19?

Get tested and stay home.
Follow, EMU at Lancaster COVID-19 procedures.

What if I am exposed to someone positive with COVID-19?

If fully vaccinated,

Get tested on day 3 after exposure and wear a mask around others for 10 days.
Follow EMU at Lancaster COVID-19 procedures.

If you are not fully vaccinated (not boosted) or unvaccinated,

- Quarantine at home for 5 days and test on day 5 after exposure.
- Follow EMU at Lancaster COVID-19 procedures.