Is the vaccine required for students?

Yes. As of August 12, 2021, Elmira College is requiring students and employees to become fully vaccinated. 

Will rapid testing be available during the academic year?

The College has, on-campus, the test kits needed to complete random sampling, symptomatic, and athletics-related testing. Students/employees will be contacted by the Clarke Health Center when/if they need to be tested. Testing occurs in the CHC and takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Those who may have had the vaccine, must still participate in the random testing if contacted.

What should I do if I feel sick or believe I have been exposed?

Students should contact the Clarke Health Center at (607)735-1750. Do not leave your room or go to class until you have talked with the Health Center. Employees should contact their primary care physician or a testing center (such as a drive-through pharmacy) before returning to work. Employees should refer to the CDC guidelines.

What measures will the College use to mitigate the spread of COVID-19?

Campus healthcare personnel will closely monitor and assess the potential spread of the virus, as well as existing policies and procedures to mitigate it. The College is working closely with the local health department, and that department will manage contact tracing, if necessary.  Students and their families can check MyEC for the latest coronavirus communications and resources.

How will classrooms be cleaned and disinfected?

Buildings and Grounds will clean high-touch areas daily in addition to the overnight cleaning of office and workspaces based on CDC guidelines for cleaning and disinfection and Occupational and Environmental Safety Office (OESO) protocols. B&G will also maintain hand-sanitizer stations at major building entrances and high-traffic areas.

In addition, it is important for faculty, staff, and students to take responsibility for practicing regular hand hygiene.

What will initiate a change in operating status?

Changes in operating status will occur when and if directed by the local Health Department or the Governor's office.

What happens if the College has to go fully online again?

As we did in Spring 2020, Elmira College is fully prepared to provide a quality education no matter what the delivery mode. All faculty are prepared to deliver classes online if needed.  

What about requirements related to internships, clinicals, student teaching, and other off-campus activities?

Students completing clinicals, student teaching and/or internships should be in regular contact with their instructor. If you cannot participate because of illness, are in quarantine or self-isolation, or if your site is closed, contact your supervisor or instructor and find out how hours can be fulfilled.

Life right now is a bit unpredictable due to the coronavirus. We understand. If you have any questions, please reach out to our Admissions staff at (800) 935-6472 or admissions@elmira.edu. We are here to help.

How will the Coronavirus Affect My Application?

Not at all! Our Admissions and Financial Aid staff are actively reviewing and processing applications and financial aid information for Fall 2022 enrollment. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to the Admissions or Financial Aid staff. Staff is available to answer questions via email, phone and video conferencing.

Can I Visit Campus?

Yes, the College is providing campus tours to interested students and their families. Please visit the Admissions Visit page for details on our visit opportunities, both in-person and virtually!

What will the year look like for student-athletes?

As of June 16, 2021, and per New York State guidelines, all state restrictions on college athletics are rolled back. Elmira College intends to fully engage in intercollegiate athletics in the 2021-2022 year. All activities will be in accordance with Empire 8, NCAA, and local health guidelines, including the NCAA guidelines which are included in the EC 2021-2022 Coronavirus Guidelines.