Each college might have a different vaccination policy, or no formal policy as of yet, making it harder for students to make a decision. The topic is especially concerning as college-aged students currently make up a high percentage of Covid-19 cases.
The difference in the Covid-19 era is that while three vaccines—those developed by Janssen, Moderna and Pfizer—have been rigorously tested and authorized for emergency use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration ; none have yet been fully approved by the FDA. Rutgers University, the public college system in New Jersey, was one of the first to announce its full vaccine mandate for all on-campus students back in March; students can request an exemption for medical or religious reasons. The University of California system is also requiring all students, faculty and staff to be fully vaccinated before returning for the fall.