The George Washington University is addressing frequently asked questions about the return to campus for the spring 2022 semester, vaccine requirements and more.
Q: Will virtual learning continue past Jan. 18?
A: At this time, we do not anticipate any changes to the guidance provided prior to winter break. However, our Medical Advisory Group is monitoring the trajectory of COVID-19 transmission in the D.C. region. Students should plan to return to campus by the dates previously communicated. We expect that in-person courses will commence as planned on Jan. 18, and only those limited courses designated for hybrid or online modalities will have a guaranteed remote component past that date. Students who have COVID-19 should contact their professors to make arrangements for instructional continuity.
Q: Am I required to take a PCR or antigen COVID-19 test prior to returning to campus this spring?
A: We strongly encourage you to test yourself so that you may isolate at home if you test positive rather than coming to campus. However, we know testing can be difficult to find so this is not an absolute requirement.
Q: How do I report an external positive COVID-19 test?
A: GW students, faculty or staff should upload a positive COVID-19 test result received from outside of a university testing site to the medical portal. Detailed instructions are available.
Q: If I test at home before I come to campus, can this count as my required surveillance test?
A: If your non-GW test is a PCR, and you upload the results to the medical portal, it will remove any testing hold and you will be in testing compliance.
Q: Has GW changed its quarantine and isolation guidance based on CDC’s recommendations?
A: We are aware that the CDC has shortened its quarantine and isolation guidance for the general population. GW follows guidance issued by DC Health, which has not changed its protocol at this time for University settings. Therefore, there are no changes to GW’s current 10-day quarantine and isolation protocols. Only the Colonial Health Center (students) and Occupational Health (faculty and staff) can release a GW community member from isolation and clear you to resume in-person campus activities. We will continue to monitor guidance from DC Health and will update the community if changes are necessary.
Q: What is GW's booster requirement?
A: GW will require a COVID-19 vaccination booster dose for all eligible students, faculty and staff in university-owned or -operated facilities. Booster documentation must be uploaded to the medical portal by today, Jan. 10.
Q: Can I get a booster dose if I tested positive for COVID?
A: If you are eligible for a booster, you can receive a COVID-19 booster dose as soon as you are out of your 10-day isolation and are symptom-free. If you received monoclonal antibodies, you must wait 90 days.
Q: How do I request a temporary extension from the booster mandate?
A: If you need a temporary extension due to a recent COVID infection, recent treatment with monoclonal antibodies or booster availability, contact the Colonial Health Center (students) or Occupational Health (faculty and staff) by today, Jan. 10
For more information and other Frequently Asked Questions, visit GW’s Onward website