Religious Objection Exception Requests to the Student Immunization Requirements
Policy on Vaccination Programs
As of January 1, 2025, the University of California will permit students to request exemption from vaccine requirements for religious reasons.
In preparation for this impending policy, we hope the following bullet points will support students in knowing their rights.
- Policy on Vaccination Programs: One helpful resource can be found here: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/5000695/VaccinationProgramsPolicy
- Vaccination Education: Students are encouraged to fully consider the benefits of vaccination: https://health.ucmerced.edu/immunizations/immunization-plan
- Proof of vaccination: Students that are fully vaccinated can upload their vaccination record: https://myhealth.ucmerced.edu
Religious Exemptions: The policy will permit exemptions for religious belief as outlined in the exemption request form found here: https://ucmerced.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3k5vpKUVLE4yShg
Individuals who are not vaccinated and have an exception approved will be required to follow the guidance of campus medical officials if there should be a need for them to mask or avoid campus due to an outbreak. Those who choose not to be vaccinated and do not have an approved exemption may be subject to disciplinary action.
Submitting a Religious Exemption Request
- Student completes the exemption request form found here: https://ucmerced.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3k5vpKUVLE4yShg
- Student emails the form to deanofstudents@ucmerced.edu
- The form is reviewed by the Dean of Students Office
- A decision to approve or deny is sent to the student
- The form will be uploaded to the Student Health Portal after review
Please note that the review of Religious Exemption Request forms will begin on January 10, 2025.
Appeal Process
A student has the right to appeal the denial of their Religious Objection Exception request. The student must submit an appeal request, along with the relevant exception request form to the Medical Director of the campus Student Health Center. Students who have submitted appeals will be able to attend courses during the semester that their appeals are undergoing review and may be subject to additional Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions. If the student’s appeal is denied, the student will not be allowed to register for classes for the following term unless the student complies with the vaccination requirement or subsequently requests and is granted a University-approved Exception.
