Whittier College takes a strong stance on immunizations in order to protect the health and well-being of students, staff, and faculty.
Immunization requirements have been instituted in order to eliminate or reduce the likelihood of communicable diseases on campus. Please refer to the student health requirements for more information.
The immunization policy is strictly enforced and only limited exceptions are permitted. The College will consider a request for exemption under the following circumstances.
Medical Necessity/Contraindication
A Medical Exemption Form must be completed and signed by a health care provider which identifies the specific immunization(s) that could be detrimental to the student’s health.
Religious Objection
A Religious Exemption Form must be completed. The College will consider granting an exemption based on a written statement by the student stating the specific religious belief on which the opposition to the required vaccinations is based and the theological basis for such belief.
The TB skin test or QuantiFERON Gold Test cannot be waived for any reason.
Requesting an Exemption
The College will consider each exemption on a case-by-case basis. Students who are granted exemption must execute the College’s Immunization Waiver. Students who are denied exemption will need to complete all the required vaccinations in order to remain at Whittier College.
If a student requests an immunization waiver due to religion conviction or a
medical contraindication, the appropriate Immunization Waiver(s) must be completed and signed 30 days prior to the 1st day of classes for the semester. For students enrolling within 1-2 weeks prior to the start of school, a 2-week extension will be provided. Consequences exist if immunization(s) is/are waived by the student including quarantine in the event of outbreak of any disease.
Quarantine Policy
Under the quarantine policy, students suffering from an outbreak of any disease for which they are not immunized as required by the College will be required to leave campus until two incubation periods have passed from the last diagnosed case. Students quarantined from campus are not eligible for tuition, room, or board refunds and they may suffer academic consequences if class or lab attendance is necessary to meet course requirements.
