Changes to Covid Vaccine Religious Exemption Process

Dear students,

The Biden administration recently issued an executive order and related guidance requiring that employees of federal contractors be fully vaccinated against Covid-19 by December 8, with limited exceptions. Although our campus community has already achieved a 98% vaccination rate, as a federal contractor, MIT must comply with this new federal mandate. A communication about this new mandate went out yesterday to staff, faculty, postdocs, and others in Covid Pass. As explained in that communication, MIT is modifying its religious exemption process in response to the new executive order.

Because many of our students work on federally funded projects (including UROPs and research assistants), and in order to maintain a consistent approach for all community members who regularly access campus, we are modifying the religious exemption process for all students as well. 

Our records indicate that you have received a religious exemption from the Covid-19 vaccination requirement. To maintain this exemption, you must complete a new form and provide additional information supporting your request. This information will be reviewed by MIT Medical. Please complete this form by October 29. 

If you decide instead to pursue vaccination, or if your religious exemption request is denied, you must be fully vaccinated by December 8, 2021. Individuals are considered fully vaccinated two weeks after they receive their final shot. The timeline for full vaccination varies depending on vaccine manufacturer:

• Moderna: First dose must be administered at least six weeks ahead, which is October 27, and second dose by November 24.
• Pfizer: First dose must be administered at least five weeks ahead, which is November 3, and second dose by November 24.
• Johnson & Johnson: Only one dose required, which must be administered by November 24.

Vaccinations are free and widely available at local pharmacies. You can locate a vaccine provider in Massachusetts on the Vaccine Finder website.

If you have any questions, please contact MIT Medical.

Sincerely,
Melissa Nobles, Chancellor
Cecilia Stuopis, M.D., Medical Director, MIT Medical