Exemptions and Deferrals
The UC COVID-19 vaccination policy allows for medical exceptions consistent with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance and manufacturer labeling on contraindications and precautions. Faculty, staff and students are also eligible to request accommodations based on disability or religious belief, and deferrals are available for those who are pregnant.
Students
To request a medical exemption, religious exception, disability exception or deferral during pregnancy, students may visit the Student Health Center's website.
All request forms must be uploaded to the UCI Student Health Center Patient Portal. Note that the review of your request may take up to seven (7) business days. Students will receive notification of approval or denial of the request via secure message on the portal.
For questions regarding the exemption process, send a secure message on the portal to: “Immunization Exemption/Deferral Request Inquiry” and a SHC nurse will respond within three to five (3-5) business days.
Students who are not vaccinated because of receiving an exemption, exception or deferral must, at a minimum, wear masks and participate in regular COVID-19 testing. Students who arrive partially vaccinated or whose exemption, exception, or deferral request is pending must also mask and participate in regular testing. Students who are not vaccinated and not approved for an exemption, exception or deferral will be subject to enforcement protocols.
Employees
To request a medical exemption, religious exception, disability exception or deferral during pregnancy, employees may visit UCI’s Future of Work COVID policy page or click on the appropriate form below:
Medical Exemption Religious Exception Disability Exception Pregnancy Deferral
You will receive a confirmation email when your documentation has been received. While your exception request is pending, you must wear a face covering that light cannot pass through when indoors, participate in weekly COVID-19 testing and complete the Daily Symptom Check.
Student and Employee Booster Exceptions
There are four scenarios for booster exceptions:
- If you have an existing medical, disability or religious exception.
- If you have an existing pregnancy deferral or other time-limited exception.
- If you were previously denied an exception.
- If you want an exception to this booster.
See details on each scenario.