FAQs - Immunizations

Read more FAQs for HEALTH SCIENCES students.

Submitting Your Vaccine Records

1. How do I submit my immunization documentation?

The preferred method for submitting documentation is through the VCU Student Health Web Portal.  Please refer to our detailed Web Portal Instructions for Submitting Vaccine Records.  Please do not send records multiple times as this delays the data entry process.

You may also email, fax, or mail completed forms and documentation to:

University Student Health Services: Immunizations Department
PO Box 842022
Richmond, VA 23284-2022
Phone: (804) 827-8047
Fax: (804) 828-1093
Email: ushsimmuniz@vcu.edu
 

2. I don't have my records from childhood.  Where can I obtain them?  

If you don't have a copy of your immunization records, contact any previous medical providers to see if they have documentation.  Prior high schools, universities, or your local health department may also have a copy of your vaccine record. If you were in the military and are having trouble obtaining your shot record, contact VCU Military Student Services for assistance.  Click on the link for more tips for locating old immunization records.

3. Do I need to fill out VCU's Certificate of Immunization?

You are not required to fill out the VCU Certificate of Immunization specifically.  You may choose to submit official documentation from your health care provider or another reputable source.

4. I sent my records to a different department a long time ago.  Why don't you have my records on file?

Different departments within VCU do not necessarily use the same database to store student information.  To ensure that your VCU electronic health record has been updated, you must submit your immunization records directly to VCU Student Health's Immunization Department by Web Portal upload, fax, email, mail, or in person.

5. I have attended another state university.  Am I still required to submit vaccine records?

Yes.  VCU requires records of immunizations.  Please submit documentation through the VCU Student Health Web Portal.  We also accept faxes, emails, mail, or hand delivery of records to Student Health Services.  You may also contact your previous school and ask them to send it on your behalf.

6. I received many vaccines when I served in the military.  Do I still need proof of my immunizations?

Yes.  If you are having trouble obtaining documentation, VCU Military Student Services may be able to assist you.

7. I was full-time this past semester and never submitted any records.  Now I have a hold on my account and cannot register for next semester.  Why was I allowed to register previously, but not now?

Per the Code of Virginia, all full-time students are required to submit immunization records for compliance.  You are given a grace period to ensure adequate time to submit your records.  Once this period has ended, you will be prohibited from registering for classes until all required documents have been submitted.

8. How do I know if you have received my records?

Log on to the VCU Student Health Web Portal to see if your immunization records have been updated.  Type in your VCU EID and password.  Then click on the "My Profile" tab to view/print a copy of your Immunization History.

Getting Your Vaccines Updated

1. Are all of the required immunizations available at Student Health?

Yes.  We offer all of the vaccines and blood titers necessary to meet the state and Health Sciences requirements.  Vaccine and titer fees are self-pay, as Student Health does not accept health insurance.  

2. Do I need a TB skin test?

Many students who have lived or traveled outside of the country for extended periods are required to have a tuberculosis (TB) test.  To determine where or not a TB test is required, complete the tuberculosis screening questions on page 2 of the VCU Certificate of Immunization.  All students, regardless of enrollment status, are required to complete this screening.

3. Will my health insurance pay for my immunizations or lab titers?

VCU Student Health does not process insurance claims at our facilities.  If you do not want to pay out-of-pocket through Student Health, you can update your vaccines and titers with an outside provider who accepts your insurance.  You must still submit documentation of vaccines or lab tests completed with that provider.

4. I am not a student at VCU yet.  Can I use your clinic to get vaccines or have lab titers drawn?

No.  Only current students can receive care at Student Health.

5. Can I waive any vaccines?

Yes.  Although it is recommended to receive the vaccines, you have the option of waiving the Hepatitis B and Meningococcal vaccines.  Please be sure to read the waiver information on page 5 of the before signing.  

Accessing Your VCU Immunization Records

1. Can you email me a copy of my immunization records?

No.  It is against our policy to send immunization records via email since it is not considered a secure form of communication.

2. I have attended VCU in the past and need a copy of my immunization records.  How might I obtain them?

If you still have access to the VCU Student Health Web Portal, you can log in and print or save a copy of your Immunization History.  If you no longer have access, please call our office at (804) 827- 8047 for assistance.