University of Georgia
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Response

Information for Students

Read about updated COVID-19 guidance from the University System of Georgia and UGA’s new COVID-19 Vaccine Incentive Program.

We know you have questions, and we are working provide the information you need. See the links below, check your email regularly and check this site often to stay informed.

News You Need

  • Daily Class Schedule

    The Daily Class Schedule has been adjusted to add five minutes between classes to allow you additional time to walk between classes, should you choose to do so. Campus Transit buses are operational with social distancing measures in place that will limit passenger capacity.

Campus Information

Instruction

  • Disability Resource Center

    The Disability Resource Center continues to support its students while instruction is online. Information about assistive technology resources, connecting with your coordinator, and accessing services from home is available on their website.

  • Division of Academic Enhancement

    The Division of Academic Enhancement has developed resources to assist in your academic success. To get ready for success in an online class, visit the DAE at a Distance page where you can learn more about adjusting to online classes, academic coaching, tutoring and more.

  • Experiential Learning

    We know the pandemic has significantly affected your ability to complete experiential learning requirements and you may have questions about non-traditional coursework. The Experiential Learning at a Distance page connects you with information about service-learning, experiential learning and CURO.

Health & Wellness

  • BeWellUGA at Home

    The trained dietitians, mindfulness instructors, wellness coaches, health educators, and clinicians at the University Health Center, as well as other campus partners, are here to support your wellbeing no matter how far from campus you are. They will share ways to stay organized; strategies to wake up feeling rested; and live virtual sessions on mindfulness, yoga, mental wellbeing, and stress reduction, among other topics.

  • Student Well-being Resources

    CAPS is your go-to, on-campus resource for emotional, social and behavioral-health support. We support students in achieving both academic and personal life goals. CAPS is committed to providing high quality, affordable and confidential services to UGA students and their eligible partners. The benefits of CAPS includes:

    • No out of pockets costs for most services.*
    • In-person appointments with options for telehealth.
    • No session limits; services focus on brief, short-term and goal-focused needs.
    • Expansion of group offerings available both in-person and virtually.
    • Psychiatry services that do not require counseling services.
    • Continued access to urgent services (all you have to do is ask).
    • An amazing case management team to assist with finding off-campus resources when CAPS is not the best match.
    • 24/7 support available by calling CAPS directly at 706-542-2273.
    • TAO Online Support is available for all students at UGA.

    *For students who pay the health fee and bill insurance.

    When it comes to your health and well-being, know that you have the support you need, any time, any place. Whether you are on campus, studying from home, or studying abroad, UGA is here for you. 

  • Recreational Sports

    Have COVID-19, quarantine and working from home caused you to be less active and more stressed? Now it is more important than ever to take care of your mental and physical wellbeing. We all know that exercise benefits our strength and cardiovascular function, but did you also know that regular exercise can boost your immune system, fight depression and anxiety, give you more energy and help you sleep better?   

    If you are ready for better health and wellness, the department of recreational sports is committed to helping you. To better serve the UGA community, new outdoor and virtual fitness options are now available in addition to our in-house options. 

    Read more about Rec Sports Fitness options.

    Follow UGA Recreational Sports on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for at-home workouts, mindful activities, fitness challenges, UGA-themed exercises, and live and pre-recorded group fitness sessions. All members of the University community are invited participate.

Campus Support

  • Student Affairs

    Student Affairs continues to provide countless learning, development, and support opportunities that inspire students to lead, discover, and serve. Student Affairs spans the student experience, including housing and residential life, health and well-being, student and cultural centers, campus activities, student organizations, accessibility, student conduct, and more.

  • Student Care & Outreach

    Student Care and Outreach is the hub of care and support at UGA, coordinating care and assistance for all students, undergraduate and graduate, by providing individualized assistance and tailored interventions. SCO helps students get connected to the resources that best address their needs, whether they are related to academics, social life, or health and wellness.

Travel & Study Abroad

  • Exchange Programs Status

    UGA Outbound Exchange Programs

    The status of Fall 2021 outbound UGA Exchange Program participation is currently undergoing a review given the COVID-19 pandemic and potential impact on international travel. Additional information regarding the program status, current immigration restrictions for students, as well as calendar changes and/or teaching format has been sought from our UGA Exchange Partner Institutions and will be taken into consideration as UGA further evaluates the feasibility of each individual program location. Should a program be canceled, OGE will work with impacted students and host universities institutions to defer participation to Spring 2022 where feasible.

    Incoming International Exchange Programs

    Incoming exchange students are still being welcomed to attend University of Georgia as long as their program has not been cancelled by their home university. Travel to the U.S. will be dependent on immigration services – for more information, click here for updated FAQ regarding immigration status and services at UGA.

    Non-UGA Programs

    Please note that Non-UGA programs are external to UGA, and therefore are not affected by UGA program cancellations. If your program provider is still continuing operations (in-person or virtually), you may continue your participation with your Non-UGA program. We ask that you carefully consider your decision and consult with your program provider and the advice of the State Department and CDC, especially if you have certain respiratory or immune deficiencies.

    Any questions in regards to your program continuation, contingency plans for academics, or program refunds should be directed to your program provider.

    Please keep your Global Education Advisor up to date with any changes in your program plans or if you decide to withdraw and update your program itinerary in the StudyAway Portal with any travel changes.

Orientation

Additional Resources for Students

  • Vaccine Incentives

    You answered the call to get vaccinated: to protect yourself, your community and the Bulldog Nation. Now, you can win $1,000! Other Terms and Conditions Participation is voluntary. Senior administrators (University Cabinet and Deans) are not eligible. Family members of UGA students, faculty and staff are not eligible. Winners will be required to validate the […]

  • International Student Orientation

    The online International Student Orientation program is free to all incoming international students and covers a wide-range of topics focused on making your transition to UGA and the U.S. a successful one!

  • Campus Operations

    Throughout the University of Georgia’s (UGA) response to the COVID-19 pandemic, UGA has remained focused on the health and safety of our faculty, staff and students. This commitment has never wavered, and it remains a guiding tenet.

  • Higher Education Emergency Relief II (HEER II) Fund

    The federal Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act provided financial resources to colleges and universities. The resources available through the Higher Education Emergency Relief (HEER) Fund allow universities to distribute grants to students in need to cover expenses related to the disruption of campus operations due to COVID-19.

Frequently Asked Questions

Athletics

Campus Information

Quickly find indoor and outdoor study spaces across campus with UGA’s interactive map.

Study spaces at a glance:

Need a spot to log in to your online class while on campus? Consider using one of the Zoom Zones at the Main Library or the Miller Learning Center. The Main Library’s fourth floor study room is perfect for engaging in classes because it’s a place where talking isn’t frowned upon. At the MLC, the east side of the second and third floors (near the stadium) are designated as Zoom Zones. Headphones are encouraged, but feel free to speak up and engage in your online class in those study spots.

The standard sizes advertised and made by FMD are 24”X30”, 36”X30” and 48”X30”.  Some custom installations are also available at the units’ request based on the specific needs of their faculty, staff and students which also determines the type, size, use and location of the plexiglass barriers.

Yes. If you are being quarantined for potential exposure or if you are showing signs of illness, then we ask that you provide that information to our communications center when you contact the police department to request assistance. If possible, we will evaluate if we can provide the requested service remotely, i.e. taking a report over the phone. If not, our officers have the necessary protective equipment and training to safely respond in person to assist you.

Officers at the UGA Police Department have been adhering to social distancing and mask protocols recommended by the CDC. The department has taken significant steps to increase our sanitation standards during this outbreak and officers have been directed not to report to work if they are feeling ill. Our officers have been given guidance to self-quarantine if they have been exposed or if they are showing signs of illness.

No. As part of steps taken to prevent the spread of illness, officers have been instructed to wear protective equipment whenever they deem it is necessary to keep them and our public safe. Our officers have been instructed, when in doubt, to wear protective equipment for their safety. Protective equipment will now be part of a standard response protocol.

High quality CPR includes both chest compressions and breaths using a CPR face shield or CPR mask; however, as in any situation, if you do not have access to a shield or you do not feel comfortable providing breaths, you can provide only chest compressions (also called “Hands Only CPR”). Should someone need CPR, first call 911. Have someone call 911 for you or place your cell phone on speaker mode. Push hard and fast in the center of the chest. You should compress the chest 100 to 120 times per minute. Watch this video to see a demonstration of the Hands Only CPR method.

All individuals on campus are required to follow posted signage. Signage will communicate important information including, but not limited to:

  • Protocol reminders
  • Building entrance and exit points
  • Floor decals denoting six feet of distance for wait areas and lines
  • Occupancy limits in classrooms, conference rooms and other spaces
  • Building-specific instructions, such as for laboratory work

The university will also regularly communicate with campus community members about protocols and other changes through emails, social media posts and updates to the COVID-19 website.

The University System of Georgia encourages everyone—whether vaccinated or not—to wear a face covering while inside campus facilities. However, face coverings and social distancing are not required.

Any students who want face coverings can pick them up at no cost at Information Desks in the Tate Student Center and the Miller Learning Center.

Follow this link to learn more about proper masks and masking behaviors.

Campus Operations

There is not sufficient time between classes for FMD staff to disinfect every classroom effectively between classes. However, all classrooms will be thoroughly disinfected daily.  

In addition, disposable disinfectant wipes are being placed at central locations in campus buildings so that commonly used hard surfaces and objects (e.g., desktops, classroom chairs, study tables, doorknobs, etc.) can be wiped down before use. These wipe stations offer an opportunity for immediate cleaning/disinfection between custodial routine cleaning of campus spaces, including classrooms, as a student or faculty member can obtain a wipe as they enter and wipe down their immediate touch surfaces.

The stations will typically be positioned outside the classrooms so that they can be readily available to students and faculty. In addition, they will be routinely checked and refilled to maintain availability.

The active ingredient in these wipes, which is approved by the CDC and EPA, provides campus stakeholders a mild form of chemical disinfection that is comparable to Clorox and Lysol household disinfecting wipes (but without chlorine bleach) and is effective against a broad spectrum of viruses and bacteria. More information about these stations and the disinfectant is available on the FMD website.

To notify FMD staff about special cleaning requests related to COVID-19 exposures (or suspected exposures), please submit a sanitization work request.

For more information, visit fmd.uga.edu/FAQ.

Commencement

COVID-19

Guidance for UGA Students:

You are required to report the positive test through DawgCheck and isolate for 10 days per CDC/GDPH guidelines. The system will prompt you to provide information on others with whom you may have been in close contact. It will also trigger notifications to Student Care & Outreach (SCO) and the Facilities Management Division (FMD). Case managers in SCO will notify your professors and contact you to coordinate any support or assistance you may require, and FMD will coordinate cleaning and sanitation of spaces where you have been.

If you are a resident of on-campus housing, you will not be allowed to stay in your residence hall during the 10-day isolation period and will be encouraged to return home. If this is not a viable option, SCO can arrange for other housing and meal delivery on an individual basis.

We also strongly encourage you to share your test results with those you believe you were in close contact with. Those contacts should:

  • If unvaccinated, go into quarantine for 10 days.
  • If vaccinated, be alert to new symptoms and seek a surveillance test on day 3 to 5.

Guidance for UGA Employees:

You are required to report the positive test through DawgCheck and isolate for 10 days per CDC/GDPH guidelines. The system will prompt you to provide information on others with whom you may have been in close contact. It will also trigger notifications to the Facilities Management Division (FMD) and to your hiring authority (dean/vice president or designated supervisor).

Anyone who tests positive is required to isolate for 10 days, even if you are not experiencing any symptoms, per the CDC. Fully vaccinated people can still contract COVID-19, although such break-through infections are very rare.

According to the University System of Georgia, telework may be possible, depending upon the nature of the work to be performed:

  • Faculty may temporarily transition the modality of their class, with the approval of the Provost’s Office. Change in modality is subject to an end date correlated to isolation guidelines. Department chairs will make arrangements for class coverage when faculty are unable to teach due to illness.
  • Staff members should consult with their supervisor to determine whether teleworking is an appropriate option under the “Occasional Teleworker” provision of UGA’s Telework Policy.

Provisions for special paid leave associated with COVID-19, other than Vaccine Leave, have expired. Those who are unable to telework must take accrued leave [Sick or Annual Leave or Leave Without Pay (LWOP)] during the 10-day period of isolation.

We also strongly encourage you to share your test results with those you believe you were in close contact with. Those contacts should:

  • If unvaccinated, go into quarantine for 10 days.
  • If vaccinated, be alert to new symptoms and seek a surveillance test on day 3 to 5.

The University Health Center offers Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson vaccines to the campus community. Appointments may be scheduled via the UHC Patient Portal. Being vaccinated offers your strongest defense against COVID-19. The latest guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes that vaccinated individuals are not at high risk of symptomatic or severe infection, but new research has shown a vaccinated individual may be able to pass the virus to another individual. The University of Georgia and University System of Georgia strongly encourage all faculty, staff and students to be vaccinated and encourage all vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals to wear a mask inside in public areas.

Students who are showing symptoms should seek care from the University Health Center. Please do not walk in. Make an appointment via telehealth or in person by calling 706-542-1162 or your primary care team’s number.

Employees who are showing symptoms should seek care and testing from a healthcare provider and may be required to self-quarantine.

Free COVID-19 testing will continue to be offered to asymptomatic faculty, staff and students at the University Health Center, regardless of vaccination status. For the safety of your family and friends, please consider getting tested if you are not fully vaccinated. Appointments can be booked via the Vet View scheduling process.

An appropriate face covering has the following qualities:

  • Made from at least two layers of washable, breathable material
  • Completely covers of nose and mouth areas
  • Fits snuggly against the sides of the face and doesn’t have gaps

Face coverings with exhalation valves are not considered effective as they can allow virus particles to escape. Cloth face coverings are recommended to be worn with face shields.

Read more about appropriate face coverings and how to wear them from the CDC here.

If you are displaying symptoms of COVID-19, isolate until an accurate assessment of the cause can be determined. Isolation, similar to quarantine, requires that you remain out of contact with others and limit movement in public. Isolation and the support needed to accomplish it is best achieved off campus or at a permanent residence. Student Care and Outreach can help with various means of support, and the Health Center can assist with medical assessment and testing. Students should contact Student Care and Outreach to discuss the option that is best suited for their individual circumstance.

Employees should not come to work when they are sick and should self-isolate until they can determine the cause through consultation with their healthcare provider. This requires the appropriate use of available leave. If an employee appears to be exhibiting symptoms associated with coronavirus while at work, a manager should excuse the employee from work and advise them to seek care from their healthcare provider. 

The College of Public Health has developed and will continue to update a guide to local testing sites for faculty and staff. Note: Only PCR nasal test sites are listed here: https://publichealth.uga.edu/coronavirus/local-testing/

Public health officials strongly encourage people who test positive to notify those with whom they have had close contact, and in many cases, this is the most effective way to notify those who have been exposed.

If you receive a positive COVID-19 diagnosis, you are required to report those results through DawgCheck.

Access DawgCheck through the UGA app or online at dawgcheck.uga.edu.

The University System of Georgia encourages everyone—whether vaccinated or not—to wear a face covering while inside campus facilities. However, face coverings and social distancing are not required.

Any students who want face coverings can pick them up at no cost at Information Desks in the Tate Student Center and the Miller Learning Center.

Follow this link to learn more about proper masks and masking behaviors.

You can help prevent illness by taking several simple steps:

  • Practice good hand hygiene.
  • Do not touch your face, eyes or mouth unless your hands are clean.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or your sleeve.
  • Stay home if you’re feeling sick.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
  • Be open with your travel history or possible exposure to others.
  • Report positive COVID-19 tests through DawgCheck.

The University System of Georgia encourages everyone—whether vaccinated or not—to wear a face covering while inside campus facilities. Learn more through the University Health Center.

DawgCheck

If you receive a positive COVID-19 test, you are required to report your positive test through DawgCheck.

The health and safety of the UGA community is our top priority. Through DawgCheck, you will be asked to share names of close contacts to help the Department of Public Health with contact tracing.

We also strongly encourage you to share your test results with those you believe you were in close contact with. Those contacts should:

  • If unvaccinated, go into quarantine for 10 days.
  • If vaccinated, be alert to new symptoms and seek a surveillance test on day 3 to 5.

In addition to getting vaccinated, using DawgCheck will help protect fellow Bulldogs and the communities surrounding campus against the spread of COVID-19.

Students who do not report a positive COVID-19 test via DawgCheck will be referred to the COVID-19 Student Educational and Response Team (CO-SERT), which will review, and when deemed necessary, respond to reported concerns involving students and COVID-19 health and safety guidelines. A student who willfully fails to report a positive COVID-19 test will be referred to the Office of Student Conduct. You can find more information about CO-SERT here.

An employee who willfully fails to follow and comply with University Policy and Procedure may result in an employee receiving disciplinary action such as verbal or written warning, suspension without pay, demotion, or discharge.

Guidance for UGA Students:

You are required to report the positive test through DawgCheck and isolate for 10 days per CDC/GDPH guidelines. The system will prompt you to provide information on others with whom you may have been in close contact. It will also trigger notifications to Student Care & Outreach (SCO) and the Facilities Management Division (FMD). Case managers in SCO will notify your professors and contact you to coordinate any support or assistance you may require, and FMD will coordinate cleaning and sanitation of spaces where you have been.

If you are a resident of on-campus housing, you will not be allowed to stay in your residence hall during the 10-day isolation period and will be encouraged to return home. If this is not a viable option, SCO can arrange for other housing and meal delivery on an individual basis.

We also strongly encourage you to share your test results with those you believe you were in close contact with. Those contacts should:

  • If unvaccinated, go into quarantine for 10 days.
  • If vaccinated, be alert to new symptoms and seek a surveillance test on day 3 to 5.

Guidance for UGA Employees:

You are required to report the positive test through DawgCheck and isolate for 10 days per CDC/GDPH guidelines. The system will prompt you to provide information on others with whom you may have been in close contact. It will also trigger notifications to the Facilities Management Division (FMD) and to your hiring authority (dean/vice president or designated supervisor).

Anyone who tests positive is required to isolate for 10 days, even if you are not experiencing any symptoms, per the CDC. Fully vaccinated people can still contract COVID-19, although such break-through infections are very rare.

According to the University System of Georgia, telework may be possible, depending upon the nature of the work to be performed:

  • Faculty may temporarily transition the modality of their class, with the approval of the Provost’s Office. Change in modality is subject to an end date correlated to isolation guidelines. Department chairs will make arrangements for class coverage when faculty are unable to teach due to illness.
  • Staff members should consult with their supervisor to determine whether teleworking is an appropriate option under the “Occasional Teleworker” provision of UGA’s Telework Policy.

Provisions for special paid leave associated with COVID-19, other than Vaccine Leave, have expired. Those who are unable to telework must take accrued leave [Sick or Annual Leave or Leave Without Pay (LWOP)] during the 10-day period of isolation.

We also strongly encourage you to share your test results with those you believe you were in close contact with. Those contacts should:

  • If unvaccinated, go into quarantine for 10 days.
  • If vaccinated, be alert to new symptoms and seek a surveillance test on day 3 to 5.

Guidance for UGA Students:

Per CDC guidance, if you have been fully vaccinated [i.e., it has been two weeks since your final vaccine dose or you have had COVID-19 in the past three months, have recovered, and remain without COVID-19 symptoms (for example, cough, shortness of breath)], you do not need to quarantine if you come in close contact with an individual who tests positive for COVID-19. You may continue to attend class and activities as you normally do, but you should monitor yourself for COVID-19 symptoms. The CDC recommends that you test 3-5 days after the last exposure and strongly recommends wearing a mask until a COVID test is negative or for 14 days. For information on where to get tested, visit the COVID-19 testing portal.

If you have not been fully vaccinated or it has been over three months since you had COVID-19, you should report your potential exposure via DawgCheck. If you live in on-campus housing, case managers in Student Care and Outreach (SCO) can help you to determine if quarantining is necessary. If quarantine is warranted, you will not be allowed to stay in your residence hall during the quarantine period and will be encouraged to return home. If this is not a viable option, SCO can arrange for housing and meal delivery. Students living off-campus can contact SCO directly at sco@uga.edu or 706-542-7774, after reporting the exposure via DawgCheck, if they need specific support with instructor notifications or require any other assistance. It is recommended that you be tested for COVID-19, regardless of whether you are exhibiting symptoms, on Day 8 or 9 of quarantine. For information on where to get tested, visit the COVID-19 testing portal. If you test positive for COVID-19 at any time during the quarantine period, you must report it via DawgCheck. You will then be required to isolate for a period of 10 days from the date the COVID-19 test was taken. SCO will continue to assist you during this period.

Guidance for UGA Employees:

Per CDC guidance, if you have been fully vaccinated [i.e., it has been two weeks since your final vaccine dose or you have had COVID-19 in the past three months, have recovered, and remain without COVID-19 symptoms (for example, cough, shortness of breath)], you do not need to quarantine if you come in close contact with an individual who tests positive for COVID-19. You may continue to come to work as you normally do. However, monitoring yourself for symptoms is still recommended. The CDC recommends that you test 3-5 days after the last exposure and strongly recommends wearing a mask until a COVID test is negative or for 14 days. For information on where to get tested, visit the COVID-19 testing portal.

If you have not been fully vaccinated, or it has been over three months since you had COVID-19, you are required to quarantine for 10 days. Per the University System of Georgia, telework may be possible, depending upon the nature of the work to be performed:

  • Faculty may temporarily transition the modality of their class, with the approval of the Provost’s Office. Change in modality is subject to an end date correlated to isolation or quarantine guidelines. Department chairs will make arrangements for class coverage when faculty are unable to teach due to illness.
  • Staff members should consult with their supervisor to determine whether teleworking is an appropriate option under the “Occasional Teleworker” provision of UGA’s Telework Policy.

Provisions for special paid leave associated with COVID-19, other than Vaccine Leave, have expired. Those who are unable to telework must take accrued leave [Sick or Annual Leave or Leave Without Pay (LWOP)] during the 10-day period of quarantine.

It is recommended that you be tested for COVID-19, regardless of whether you are exhibiting symptoms, on Day 8 or 9 of quarantine. For information on where to get tested, visit the COVID-19 testing portal. If you test positive for COVID-19 at any time while quarantining, you must report the positive test to the University via DawgCheck. You will then be required to isolate for a period of 10 days from the date the COVID-19 test was taken, using accrued leave or LWOP.

The University Health Center offers Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson vaccines to the campus community. Appointments may be scheduled via the UHC Patient Portal. Being vaccinated offers your strongest defense against COVID-19. The latest guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes that vaccinated individuals are not at high risk of symptomatic or severe infection, but new research has shown a vaccinated individual may be able to pass the virus to another individual. The University of Georgia and University System of Georgia strongly encourage all faculty, staff and students to be vaccinated and encourage all vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals to wear a mask inside in public areas.

DawgCheck is an online tool to help assess and respond to COVID-19 cases at UGA in an effort to keep the campus community safe. DawgCheck consists of a reporting function which must be used by anyone who has received a positive COVID-19 test result.

Learn more about DawgCheck at dawgcheck.uga.edu/about.

The information you provide as a participant in asymptomatic testing, as well as your test results, are considered “sensitive information” under the University’s data protection policies and are protected by federal privacy laws. This information will only be accessible by authorized University employees with a need to know. This information will also be shared safely and securely with the Georgia Department of Public Health to help facilitate contact tracing.

Read more about how the Department of Public Health Facilitates contact tracing.

Learn more about DawgCheck at dawgcheck.uga.edu/support.

Emergency Preparedness and Training

High quality CPR includes both chest compressions and breaths using a CPR face shield or CPR mask; however, as in any situation, if you do not have access to a shield or you do not feel comfortable providing breaths, you can provide only chest compressions (also called “Hands Only CPR”). Should someone need CPR, first call 911. Have someone call 911 for you or place your cell phone on speaker mode. Push hard and fast in the center of the chest. You should compress the chest 100 to 120 times per minute. Watch this video to see a demonstration of the Hands Only CPR method.

Facilities and Cleaning

There is not sufficient time between classes for FMD staff to disinfect every classroom effectively between classes. However, all classrooms will be thoroughly disinfected daily.  

In addition, disposable disinfectant wipes are being placed at central locations in campus buildings so that commonly used hard surfaces and objects (e.g., desktops, classroom chairs, study tables, doorknobs, etc.) can be wiped down before use. These wipe stations offer an opportunity for immediate cleaning/disinfection between custodial routine cleaning of campus spaces, including classrooms, as a student or faculty member can obtain a wipe as they enter and wipe down their immediate touch surfaces.

The stations will typically be positioned outside the classrooms so that they can be readily available to students and faculty. In addition, they will be routinely checked and refilled to maintain availability.

The active ingredient in these wipes, which is approved by the CDC and EPA, provides campus stakeholders a mild form of chemical disinfection that is comparable to Clorox and Lysol household disinfecting wipes (but without chlorine bleach) and is effective against a broad spectrum of viruses and bacteria. More information about these stations and the disinfectant is available on the FMD website.

To notify FMD staff about special cleaning requests related to COVID-19 exposures (or suspected exposures), please submit a sanitization work request.

For more information, visit fmd.uga.edu/FAQ.

Financial Assistance

The CARES Act provided $11.8 million to be distributed to students in need due to the COVID-19 situation. At the University of Georgia, the funds were distributed as need-based grants, with the highest amount awarded to undergraduates who receive Federal Pell Grants.

Students must have a valid FAFSA on file and be eligible to receive federal student financial aid to be eligible for the HEER Fund grants. To submit a FAFSA, please go to https://fafsa.ed.gov.

Additional information on how UGA awarded these funds can be found here.

The University is offering Emergency Funds and Financial Hardship Resources to assist our students during this time. Undergraduate students in need of emergency financial assistance should submit applications to the Undergraduate Student Emergency Fund and graduate students to the Graduate Student Emergency Fund. Please visit UGA’s Financial Hardship Resources website at https://financialhardship.uga.edu/ for additional information.

Future Events

Health & Wellness

By CDC's definition, members of the same household, including roommates in a dorm, are considered a close contact of a known COVID-19 positive person, even if wearing masks. You should contact your local medical provider and arrange for a COVID-19 test. Unvaccinated individuals should immediately quarantine at home. The CDC recommends that fully vaccinated individuals test 3-5 days after the last exposure and strongly recommends wearing a mask until a COVID test is negative or for 14 days. Vaccinated individuals may refrain from quarantine if remaining asymptomatic.

Unvaccinated individuals who have been in close contact with someone who is positive for COVID-19 must quarantine. While the CDC recommends a full 14-day quarantine, if you are asymptomatic, alternative quarantine options are available. Effective January 4, 2021, the University of Georgia will allow the CDC's 10-day option for quarantine for those who are in close contact with individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19. However, those exercising the 10-day option must have been symptom-free throughout the monitoring period.

  • We strongly encourage students, faculty and staff to voluntarily take a COVID-19 test within 48 hours of the end of the 10-day quarantine period (test to be administered between days 8 and 10). These tests are administered for free to the campus community by the UGA Health Center and Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory.
    • If the test is negative, the individual may return to campus, but MUST continue to closely monitor for any new COVID-19 symptoms through 14 days. If new symptoms occur, the individual must not come to campus and must seek further testing/evaluation.
    • If the test is positive at the end of the 10-day period, the individual must begin a 10-day isolation period from the date of the test.

Click here to read more about the CDC’s revised quarantine guidelines and USG’s implementation.

Click here to access calculators for quarantine and isolation.

If you do not fit the CDC's definition of a close contact with a COVID-19 positive person, there is no need for quarantine or isolation. You can continue to go to work or school. Continue to monitor for signs and symptoms of COVID-19. If symptoms develop, please isolate at home and call your medical provider to arrange for COVID-19 testing. If you have confirmed or suspected COVID-19 and have symptoms, you can stop your home isolation when you’ve been fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication, your symptoms have improved, AND at least 10 days have gone by since your symptoms first appeared. 

Click here to read more about the CDC’s revised quarantine guidelines and USG’s implementation.

Please stay home and isolate yourself from others and contact your local medical provider to determine if continued isolation is warranted or additional testing is indicated. If COVID-19 is suspected despite your test results, you can stop your home isolation when you’ve been fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication, your symptoms have gotten better, AND, at least 10 days have gone by since your symptoms first appeared. 

Click here to access calculators for quarantine and isolation.

Please stay home and isolate yourself from others for 10 days. Contact your local medical provider to see if COVID-19 testing is warranted. If you have confirmed or suspected COVID-19 and have symptoms, you can stop your home isolation when you’ve been fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication, your symptoms have gotten better, AND, at least 10 days have passed by since your symptoms first appeared. 

Click here to access calculators for quarantine and isolation.

No, if you have not had symptoms and have not been identified as a close contact, you may continue to work or go to school per the guidance of your employer or school; be sure to wear a mask, physically distance and use good hygiene. If the test comes back positive, then you must stay home and isolate away from others for 10 days from the date the COVID-19 test was taken.

Click here to access calculators for quarantine and isolation.

If you or someone you know needs assistance, you are encouraged to contact Student Care & Outreach in the Division of Student Affairs at 706-542-7774 or visit sco.uga.edu. They will help you navigate any difficult circumstances you may be facing by connecting you with the appropriate resources or services.

UGA has several resources for a student seeking mental health services or crisis support. Need help managing stress, anxiety, relationships, etc. or want to be connected socially? Visit BeWellUGA for a list of free workshops, classes, mentoring and health coaching led by licensed clinicians and health educators in the University Health Center.

When it comes to your health and well-being, know that you have the support you need, any time, any place. Whether you are on campus, studying from home, or studying abroad, UGA is here for you. 

Students who are showing symptoms should seek care from the University Health Center. Please do not walk in. Make an appointment via telehealth or in person by calling 706-542-1162 or your primary care team’s number.

Employees who are showing symptoms should seek care and testing from a healthcare provider and may be required to self-quarantine.

Free COVID-19 testing will continue to be offered to asymptomatic faculty, staff and students at the University Health Center, regardless of vaccination status. For the safety of your family and friends, please consider getting tested if you are not fully vaccinated. Appointments can be booked via the Vet View scheduling process.

While the CDC recommends a full 14-day quarantine, if you are asymptomatic, alternative quarantine options are available. Effective January 4, 2021, the University of Georgia will allow the CDC’s 10-day option for quarantine for those who are in close contact with individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19. However, those exercising the 10-day option must have been symptom-free throughout the monitoring period.

  • We strongly encourage students, faculty and staff to voluntarily take a COVID-19 test within 48 hours of the end of the 10-day quarantine period (test to be administered between days 8 and 10). These tests are administered for free to the campus community by the UGA Health Center and Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory.
    • If the test is negative, the individual may return to campus, but MUST continue to closely monitor for any new COVID-19 symptoms through 14 days. DawgCheck is the best method for monitoring these symptoms. If new symptoms occur, the individual must not come to campus and must seek further testing/evaluation.
    • If the test is positive at the end of the 10-day period, the individual must begin a 10-day isolation period from the date of the test.

Click here to read more about the CDC’s revised quarantine guidelines and USG’s implementation.

An appropriate face covering has the following qualities:

  • Made from at least two layers of washable, breathable material
  • Completely covers of nose and mouth areas
  • Fits snuggly against the sides of the face and doesn’t have gaps

Face coverings with exhalation valves are not considered effective as they can allow virus particles to escape. Cloth face coverings are recommended to be worn with face shields.

Read more about appropriate face coverings and how to wear them from the CDC here.

DawgCheck is an online tool to help assess and respond to COVID-19 cases at UGA in an effort to keep the campus community safe. DawgCheck consists of a reporting function which must be used by anyone who has received a positive COVID-19 test result.

Learn more about DawgCheck at dawgcheck.uga.edu/about.

Residents of on-campus housing who test positive for COVID-19 will not be allowed to stay in their residence hall during their isolation period and will be encouraged to return home. If this is not a viable option, the university is holding a limited number of beds for quarantine and isolation. Student Care and Outreach (SCO) can arrange for housing and meal delivery based on individual circumstances and will continue to notify faculty should students report a positive COVID-19 test result through DawgCheck.

High quality CPR includes both chest compressions and breaths using a CPR face shield or CPR mask; however, as in any situation, if you do not have access to a shield or you do not feel comfortable providing breaths, you can provide only chest compressions (also called “Hands Only CPR”). Should someone need CPR, first call 911. Have someone call 911 for you or place your cell phone on speaker mode. Push hard and fast in the center of the chest. You should compress the chest 100 to 120 times per minute. Watch this video to see a demonstration of the Hands Only CPR method.

All individuals on campus are required to follow posted signage. Signage will communicate important information including, but not limited to:

  • Protocol reminders
  • Building entrance and exit points
  • Floor decals denoting six feet of distance for wait areas and lines
  • Occupancy limits in classrooms, conference rooms and other spaces
  • Building-specific instructions, such as for laboratory work

The university will also regularly communicate with campus community members about protocols and other changes through emails, social media posts and updates to the COVID-19 website.

If you are a student, you should work through the Disability Resource Center’s (DRC) existing accommodations process. DRC professional staff work directly with students to assess their individual needs and to develop appropriate plans for accommodations and services. If you have questions regarding a COVID-19 accommodation, please contact the DRC at drc@uga.edu or 706-542-8719. Click here for more information.

If you are a staff or faculty member, you should work through the University’s existing Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accommodations process.

Anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 will be asked to self-isolate based on the CDC’s most up-to-date recommendations which can be found here.

According to guidance provided by the CDC and the Georgia Department of Public Health, fully vaccinated (defined as 2 weeks after completion of vaccine series) individuals who have been in close contact with someone who is positive for COVID-19 may refrain from quarantine if remaining asymptomatic. They should mask for 14 days following exposure or until a negative test is received. Fully vaccinated individuals who are exposed to COVID-19 should have a COVID-19 test at 3-5 days post exposure. If that test is negative, they may discontinue masking if they remain asymptomatic, but should monitor for symptoms for a full 14 days after exposure.

Unvaccinated individuals who have been in close contact with someone who is positive for COVID-19 must quarantine. While the CDC recommends a full 14-day quarantine, if you are asymptomatic, alternative quarantine options are available. Effective January 4, 2021, the University of Georgia will allow the CDC’s 10-day option for quarantine for those who are in close contact with individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19. However, those exercising the 10-day option must have been symptom-free throughout the monitoring period.

Click here to read more about the CDC’s revised quarantine guidelines and USG’s implementation.

We strongly encourage students, faculty and staff to voluntarily take a COVID-19 test within 48 hours of the end of the 10-day quarantine period (test to be administered between days 8 and 10). These tests are administered for free to the campus community by the UGA Health Center and Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory.

  • If the test is negative, the individual may return to campus, but MUST continue to closely monitor for any new COVID-19 symptoms through 14 days. If new symptoms occur, the individual must not come to campus and must seek further testing/evaluation.
  • If the test is positive at the end of the 10-day period, the individual must begin a 10-day isolation period from the date of the test. All students, faculty and stuff must report positive COVID-19 tests through DawgCheck.

Guidance for Students:

Students who believe they have been directly exposed to COVID-19 and are showing symptoms should seek care from the University Health Center. Please isolate until you can be assessed and do not walk in. For everyone’s safety, the Health Center is seeing patients by appointment only. For respiratory complaints, we will often schedule a telehealth visit via Zoom through which we can determine how best to arrange for both care and testing. To make an appointment via telehealth or in person please call 706-542-1162, or, if you know it use your primary care team’s number. 

Guidance for UGA Employees:

Employees who believe they have been directly exposed to COVID-19 and are showing symptoms should seek care from a healthcare provider and may be required to self-quarantine. During this time, employees should not come to work and should inform their manager. Managers have the discretion to determine if an employee’s duties and responsibilities can reasonably be performed from an employee’s home location, and, when they can, the manager may elect to offer the employee the option to telework.

If you are displaying symptoms of COVID-19, isolate until an accurate assessment of the cause can be determined. Isolation, similar to quarantine, requires that you remain out of contact with others and limit movement in public. Isolation and the support needed to accomplish it is best achieved off campus or at a permanent residence. Student Care and Outreach can help with various means of support, and the Health Center can assist with medical assessment and testing. Students should contact Student Care and Outreach to discuss the option that is best suited for their individual circumstance.

Employees should not come to work when they are sick and should self-isolate until they can determine the cause through consultation with their healthcare provider. This requires the appropriate use of available leave. If an employee appears to be exhibiting symptoms associated with coronavirus while at work, a manager should excuse the employee from work and advise them to seek care from their healthcare provider. 

The College of Public Health has developed and will continue to update a guide to local testing sites for faculty and staff. Note: Only PCR nasal test sites are listed here: https://publichealth.uga.edu/coronavirus/local-testing/

Public health officials strongly encourage people who test positive to notify those with whom they have had close contact, and in many cases, this is the most effective way to notify those who have been exposed.

If you receive a positive COVID-19 diagnosis, you are required to report those results through DawgCheck.

Access DawgCheck through the UGA app or online at dawgcheck.uga.edu.

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services:

  • Isolation separates sick people with a contagious disease from people who are not sick.
  • Quarantine separates and restricts the movement of people who were exposed to a contagious disease to see if they become sick. These people may have been exposed to a disease and do not know it, or they may have the disease but do not show symptoms.

You can learn more about quarantine and isolation on the CDC website.

Students showing symptoms should schedule an appointment with your UHC Primary Care Provider by calling 706-542-1162 (Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m). Please DO NOT walk-in. All others, please contact your community healthcare provider.

All patients arriving at the University Health Center with cough, sneezing, sore throat, fever, and respiratory issues will be masked to protect other patients as we evaluate the cause of their illness. All patients will be asked to provide a travel history to determine if they are at risk for coronavirus. We are also mindful of the increased stress caused by the situation.

The University System of Georgia encourages everyone—whether vaccinated or not—to wear a face covering while inside campus facilities. However, face coverings and social distancing are not required.

Any students who want face coverings can pick them up at no cost at Information Desks in the Tate Student Center and the Miller Learning Center.

Follow this link to learn more about proper masks and masking behaviors.

Housing

Residents of on-campus housing who test positive for COVID-19 will not be allowed to stay in their residence hall during their isolation period and will be encouraged to return home. If this is not a viable option, the university is holding a limited number of beds for quarantine and isolation. Student Care and Outreach (SCO) can arrange for housing and meal delivery based on individual circumstances and will continue to notify faculty should students report a positive COVID-19 test result through DawgCheck.

Human Resources

Instruction

UGA plans to return to in-person instruction without restrictions and with full classroom capacity for Fall 2021.

The University System of Georgia encourages everyone—whether vaccinated or not—to wear a face covering while inside campus facilities. However, face coverings and social distancing are not required.

Use of pedagogical approaches that existed before the pandemic, such as “flipped” instruction or other active learning techniques, is permitted. All instructors who are scheduled to meet with their class in person should do so throughout the semester. A small number of Fall Semester courses were offered online prior to the pandemic, and these may continue to be offered in that format if they were previously approved for online delivery (e-suffix) by the University Curriculum Committee and were scheduled in that manner in advance of registration.

Pursuant to state and University System of Georgia (USG) rules, we cannot ask our students or fellow employees for proof of their vaccination status, and we should not treat vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals differently unless dictated by law or applicable guidance. In addition, students should not be asked about their vaccine status and segregated in a classroom or from other instructor-student interactions (e.g., office hours, group work, field trips, labs, etc.) based on their vaccination status. However, students may be required by off-campus partnering organizations to wear masks and/or be vaccinated as a condition of participation in experiential learning opportunities such as study abroad programs, externships and delivery of medical services.

The UGA class attendance policy has not changed. Instructors still have the flexibility to adapt and enforce an attendance policy that best suits their classes. It is strongly encouraged that instructors clearly describe their attendance policy on their syllabus to make students aware of the classroom expectations as early as possible. UGA is a residential campus where classroom attendance always has been an important part of the educational experience.

Read more about Fall 2021 instructional plans here.

Orientation

Yes, we will still have New Student Orientation, but it will look a little different this year. New Student Orientation will be a hybrid program with a mix of online and in-person programming. New students will receive detailed emails from New Student Orientation in the upcoming weeks with details and instructions.

Visit orientation.uga.edu for more information.

Research

Transportation

  • Disinfectant sprayers will be used to sanitize parking deck stairwells overnight as well as inside each bus. The sprayers contain a solution proven to kill coronavirus (COVID-19).
  • All rails and handles on buses will be wiped down with disinfecting wipes between class breaks. 
  • All pay meters and elevators in the parking decks will be sanitized throughout the day and overnight.
  • Hand sanitizer will be available to passengers on each bus.

Walking and bicycling are great options for quickly navigating campus. The Daily Class Schedule has been adjusted to add five minutes between classes to allow students more time. UGA reCYCLE is a need-based bicycle recycling and redistribution program for the UGA campus community. The program refurbishes bikes that were abandoned on campus bike racks and puts them in the hands of UGA students and employees who need them for transportation to and from school or work.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has extended the face covering requirement for individuals using transportation networks, including bus systems through September 13, 2021. In accordance with the TSA policy, face coverings will remain required on UGA buses and at bus stops during this time.

Travel & Study Abroad

We encourage students to explore study abroad opportunities, scholarships and more through the following resources:

We plan on operating study abroad programming in Spring and Maymester/Summer 2022. We are constantly monitoring the spread of COVID-19 in our destination countries. Please stay in regular contact with directors of specific study abroad programs and our global education advisors for updates. 

Many study abroad opportunities are extremely popular, so please apply early to be considered for participation and secure your place. 

Additionally, many study abroad scholarships have early deadlines, do not miss a chance to apply for funds for study abroad.  Access the StudyAway Scholarship Search through the StudyAway Portal. Sign up for Scholarship Text Message Reminders to stay informed.

UGA affiliate partner organizations are also offering study abroad programs in person and virtually.

Explore available Study Away options in the StudyAway Portal. For further information or questions about study abroad, please contact the Office of Global Engagement at studyaway@uga.edu.

There are several options available to students to ensure that they receive the necessary credits:

  • You may check with your program director to inquire about the possibility of taking the courses online if your study abroad program was cancelled.
  • Students whose programs have been cancelled may also contact their program directors to inquire about the option of rolling their applications over to the next application cycle. Many programs have taken advantage of this opportunity, but please check with your individual program.
  • You may check the UGA Bulletin for the availability of other UGA courses that could fit your academic needs.
  • You may check the availability of Domestic Field Study programs that fit your academic needs.
  • Consider the National Student Exchange (NSE) Program for study away options in the United States, Canada, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
  • You may schedule an appointment with a Global Education Advisor to discuss additional study abroad opportunities.

However, please work with your UGA academic advisor to ensure that the courses you are taking will fit into your individual academic plan.

We plan on running bilateral exchanges, International Centers, independent experiences and faculty-led programs in Fall 2021. In doing so, we are constantly monitoring the spread of COVID-19 in our destination countries. Please stay in regular contact with directors of specific study abroad programs and our global education advisors for updates.  Additionally, UGA affiliate partner organizations are offering study abroad programs in person and virtually.

Explore available Study Away options in the StudyAway Portal. For further information or questions about study abroad, please contact the Office of Global Engagement at studyaway@uga.edu.

All travel should be essential and necessary. The traveler, their delegates, and their supervisor(s) and/or higher administrative authority are responsible for determining whether travel is essential and following all travel health notices. The University of Georgia Office of Global Engagement must approve all international travel. For domestic travel, the traveler should follow the travel health notices outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

UGA Police Department

Yes. If you are being quarantined for potential exposure or if you are showing signs of illness, then we ask that you provide that information to our communications center when you contact the police department to request assistance. If possible, we will evaluate if we can provide the requested service remotely, i.e. taking a report over the phone. If not, our officers have the necessary protective equipment and training to safely respond in person to assist you.

Officers at the UGA Police Department have been adhering to social distancing and mask protocols recommended by the CDC. The department has taken significant steps to increase our sanitation standards during this outbreak and officers have been directed not to report to work if they are feeling ill. Our officers have been given guidance to self-quarantine if they have been exposed or if they are showing signs of illness.

No. As part of steps taken to prevent the spread of illness, officers have been instructed to wear protective equipment whenever they deem it is necessary to keep them and our public safe. Our officers have been instructed, when in doubt, to wear protective equipment for their safety. Protective equipment will now be part of a standard response protocol.

Yes.  The UGA Police Department will continue to respond to traffic accidents, educate our community on traffic safety, and when necessary, engage in enforcement actions directly related to the safety of our community.  Expect police officers to use precautions such as protective equipment and proper social distancing during traffic stops.  The officer may ask for your driver’s license information instead of taking your license from you in order to minimize cross contamination risks.

You may contact the UGA Police at (706) 542-5813 to obtain copies of police reports.  Reports may still be picked up in person, mailed or faxed. The UGA Police Department is taking the necessary precautions to maintain social distancing by placing barriers between records personnel and the public. These preventative measures are being put into place to protect our public and police department staff.

Campus Messages