Fall 2021 Guidance

Updated Aug. 26, 2021


Masks 

  • In accordance with the CDC recommendation for fully vaccinated people to wear a mask in public indoor settings in areas of substantial or high transmission and consistent with our commitment to follow health and science guidelines, FSU is requiring masks to be worn indoors when in the presence of others by everyone on campus, regardless of vaccination status, effective August 10, 2021. Most counties in Maryland, including Allegany County, and many throughout the country have community transmission levels listed as "substantial" or higher by the CDC.

Vaccination Mandate  

  • By USM requirement, proof of being fully vaccinated or having an approved exemption is required for all FSU students and employees on campus for the fall 2021 semester. Upload/provide information on the FSU COVID-19 portal. Read more about the vaccination requirement.
  • Individuals who are non-compliant with the mandate are being contacted by the appropriate departments (Brady Health Center for students and Human Resources for employees). Individuals will be subject to personnel and student discipline processes. Specific information is being provided to the individuals.

Testing 

  • All unvaccinated individuals (those claiming exemptions or those who are not yet fully vaccinated) will be required to participate in the University’s testing protocol beginning August 30. (NOTE: test days, frequency of testing and location of the test faculty on campus will be shared in coming days.)
  • Individuals who are not yet fully vaccinated — 14 days after the final dose of vaccine — by Aug. 30 will be required to participate in the university’s testing protocol, until they are fully vaccinated.
  • Anyone who is vaccinated AND non-symptomatic can voluntarily be tested through the testing program as well. If you are experiencing any symptoms, contact the Brady Health Center (students) or your healthcare provider (employees).

Fall '21 Testing Protocol

COVID-19 Check-In Portal

  • All students, faculty and staff must check-in daily during any days they are on campus through the FSU COVID-19 portal.
  • Daily email reminders will be sent starting Aug. 30 for students and Aug. 16 for faculty (staff have been receiving reminder emails throughout the summer).
  • The FSU COVID-19 portal is also where students and employees can check on their vaccination or exemption status as well as check their testing results if they are in the testing protocol.

Residence Life/Students Living on Campus 

  • Students in the campus residence halls, including Edgewood Commons, will not receive their keys to check-in unless they are in compliance with the vaccination requirement (uploaded vaccination records or approved medical or religious exemption) prior to arrival for move-in.
  • More information is available at the Residence Life web site.

Dining 

  • All individuals must wear a mask indoors when not actively eating or drinking.
  • Anyone may wear a mask on campus (inside or outside) as they feel comfortable.

Student Athletes  

  • All student-athletes are required to meet the vaccination mandate.
  • Specific guidance is available from your coach.

Visitors/Spectators 

  • Visitors to campus are required to continue to verify their health through the FSU COVID Check-In Portal or through posted COVID-19 health verification questions at each event.
  • Visitors must wear a mask on campus when inside in the presence of others.
  • FSU welcomes attendees and spectators for events, activities and athletic events.