Last update : August 27, 2021
The new academic year is rapidly approaching and we're excitedly preparing to welcome many of you back on campus. The health and safety of our community is very important to us — that's why we've made COVID-19 vaccination mandatory for students, faculty, staff and all visitors on our campuses.
We've received many questions about the health measures in place for the return to classes this fall. Our COVID-19 FAQ for students on the return to classes is comprehensive.
For now, here is some information to address common questions.
Public health guidelines
The University will continue to follow public health guidelines. This means that physical distancing is required at all times and mask wearing is mandatory inside buildings and classrooms.
Moreover, as announced on August 10, COVID-19 vaccination will be mandatory for all persons (students, faculty, staff and visitors) on uOttawa campuses starting September 7. You must have your first dose by September 7 and your second by October 15.
Following a recommendation issued by the Council of Ontario Medical Officers of Health (PDF, 206 KB), the University will require proof of vaccination for all individuals present on campus or anyone participating in academic activities in person.
You are required to certify your vaccination status between September 1 to 7, 2021, through the COVID‑19 Vaccination Declaration online tool (available as of September 1). Visit our FAQ page for more information.
For information on how to obtain your proof of vaccination in every province and territory, visit this Government of Canada website.
Anyone who can’t be vaccinated for medical reasons or for other reasons specified under Ontario’s Human Rights Code can request an accommodation through the COVID-19 Assessment tool as of September 1.
If you still have questions about the health measures in place, speak to our campus ambassadors, who will be wearing yellow T-shirts. They’ll be able to answer your questions and give you advice.
Access to buildings
The Dining Hall will be open starting August 31, from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. You’ll of course have to be seated, to comply with physical distancing measures. You’ll need to wear a mask, except when you’re seated at your table. Learn more about the Dining Hall, including COVID-19 health and safety measures.
The first floor of the Morisset Library and 50 study spaces with computers are currently accessible to students. For more information, see the library service updates.
Services
We’re continuing to offer in-person services (academic support, wellness, administration) on campus, in addition to online services.
Our fitness centres are open and you can register for paid courses, as well as have access to drop-in sports and swimming, while following the public health measures in place. Intramural sports, group fitness classes and individual personal training sessions will be offered in person and online.
Welcome Week activities will be offered in person and online. See our campus activities calendar.
The “Services and resources” page has a list of open campus buildings.
Residences
You’ll find answers to most of your questions in our COVID-19 housing information.
Please note that no one from outside a residence, including students living in other residences, will be allowed to enter a residence during the first three weeks of September. If provincial and municipal public health guidelines allow, you’ll be able to host people living in other residences starting September 20.
No one from outside the campus will be allowed to enter the residences as long as COVID-19 restrictions are in place. Residents and their guests must show their student cards and residence keys if requested by a staff member (security guard, ambassador, student Residence Life staff, reception, etc.), who may check whether they are indeed current University residents.
International students
For measures and restrictions that apply to current and newly-admitted international students, see the International Office immigration FAQs.