HOME /

Current COVID Guidelines at Harvard University

Harvard University Commencement and Current COVID-19 Policy:

Keeping Harvard Healthy at Commencement

As we gather for Commencement, it is essential to continue practicing habits and behaviors that reduce the risk of spreading common respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19. The following guidance will help to keep the Harvard community healthy during this joyous occasion.

  1. Keep current with COVID-19 vaccination. Harvard highly recommends being up-to-date per the CDC definition for all Harvard community members, including faculty, staff, researchers, visitors and vendors who will have any on-campus presence.
     
  2. Keep a face mask handy. Face masks are not required on campus at this time. The decision to wear a mask in a mask-optional environment is personal and private, and choices should be respected. If you are at higher risk of COVID-19 complications, we strongly recommend the use of high-quality face masks, including KN95 or double-masking. 
     
  3. Stay home if you feel sick. Test if you have symptoms, and don’t assume it’s merely a cold or allergies. Test if you have COVID-19 exposure, even if you do not have symptoms.
     
  4. If you test positive, isolate and follow CDC guidelines. Abide by the isolation guidelines listed on CDC.gov. Notify close contacts and check-in with your health care provider if you are high risk.
     
  5. Stay informed about covid-19 to help guide behavior. The COVID-19 outlook is continually evolving. Stay informed about the state of the virus by monitoring local COVID data as well as the COVID Data Tracker from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

By accepting the invitation to attend Commencement, you and your guests agree to:

  • Abide by all state, local, and University COVID-19 guidelines and protocols in place at the time you come to campus.
     
  • Acknowledge the evolving nature of current protocols and agree to read all communications from the University sent in advance of this event to ensure you are up to date on the current policies and protocols.

    As of February 2023