Clemson University leadership approved the recommendations from public health experts for the start of the 2022 Spring Semester. Highlights of the plan include pre-return COVID testing for all, on-arrival testing for residential students, continued face covering requirements in instructional spaces through January, and vaccination availability at statewide locations. All elements of the plan are subject to adjustment as the University continues to monitor spread of the virus and variants while adhering to federal and state guidance.
“We’re so appreciative of the collective efforts of our students, faculty, staff and visitors – who have done a remarkable job to keep our community healthy through the Fall semester,” Provost Bob Jones said. “While we continue to monitor the COVID landscape, we believe the measures outlined for our return in January allows the best opportunity for a continued safe and fully operational Spring Semester.”
Pre-arrival testing will be required for all statewide students*, faculty and staff; these tests must be collected between Monday, Jan. 3 and Friday, Jan. 7. Access to university facilities will be restricted beginning the evening of Jan. 7. Accepted pre-arrival test types include negative PCR nasal, nasopharyngeal or saliva. Additionally, for pre-arrival tests only, a negative antigen test will be accepted. Negative antigen tests collected outside this timeframe will not be accepted. At home tests are not accepted. Proof of negative or positive test can be submitted through the COVID-19 Test Upload Tool. Hours and locations of University-provided free testing can be found on the COVID-19 Testing page.
All on-campus residents are required to receive both a pre-arrival test AND an on-campus test immediately upon move-in prior to accessing any other University facilities.
* Due to a later class start and residence opening, Bridge to Clemson Students will be required to obtain a pre-arrival test between Sunday, Jan. 9 and Thursday, Jan. 13 with an on-campus test immediately upon move-in.
KEY DATES
Jan. 3 – On-Campus Testing Availability Opens
Jan. 3-7, 2022 – Pre-Arrival Testing Period for Students, Faculty and Staff
Jan. 9-13, 2022 – Pre-Arrival Testing Period for Bridge to Clemson Students
Jan. 7 (evening) – Access Restriction Begins
Jan. 9 – Residence Halls Open
Jan. 12 – First Day of Classes
Jan. 14 – Bridge to Clemson Apartments Open
Over the winter break, individuals with test due dates beginning Dec. 22 will receive a grace period until the return testing period.
Previous Positive Test Exemption
A 90-day exemption from pre-arrival and ongoing testing for individuals whose positive PCR or antigen test was collected Oct. 9 or later (Oct. 15 or later for Bridge to Clemson students) with clearance from a healthcare provider (positive test must be more than 10 days old).
The University will not accept a positive serological test at this time.