IU lifts most COVID-19 health restrictions lifted for fall 2021 semester

Indiana University announced the fall 2021 semester will be a return to more normal operations with the elimination of masking and social distancing for fully vaccinated students and staff.

The new guidance will be effective August 1 at all campuses, including Indiana University South Bend.

The new guidelines include

• Masks will be optional for students, faculty and staff who are fully vaccinated.
• Those who are exempt from the vaccine requirement or are in the process of becoming fully vaccinated should wear a mask on campus.
• Classrooms, labs, housing, dining, recreation and other facilities will return to pre-pandemic capacities.
• Classes will be held in person.
• The university will continue cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces and sanitizer stations will be available in high-traffic areas.
• Those who are fully vaccinated will not be required to participate in mitigation testing, but will be asked to participate in surveillance testing.
• Those who are exempt from the vaccine requirement or are not fully vaccinated will participate in mitigation testing.

The university has also adjusted its vaccine verification and exemption process.

A form for requesting a vaccination exemption will be available on June 2.

No documentation is required to show proof of vaccination, but students, faculty and staff can certify their status in a form available on June 2. Incentives will be offered to those who upload documentation.

“Requiring the COVID-19 vaccine for IU students, faculty and staff with appropriate exemptions continues the university's comprehensive science and public health-driven approach to managing and mitigating the pandemic on our campuses,” IU President Michael A. McRobbie, said. “Throughout the pandemic our paramount concern has been ensuring the health and safety of the IU community. This requirement will make a 'return to normal' a reality for the fall semester.”