Mandatory vaccination requirements for International students in the US

In compliance with U.S. Visa and Immigration regulations, international students pursuing education in the United States are required to receive specific vaccinations to protect public health and prevent the spread of diseases. These vaccination requirements apply to all students, including undergraduates, graduates, and doctoral candidates, irrespective of their residential status.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has established the following criteria for mandatory vaccinations:

1. Vaccines that protect against diseases that can spread or have the potential to spread.
2. Vaccines that safeguard against diseases that have been eradicated or are close to eradication in the United States.

Additionally, each university or college in the United States has its own vaccination requirements, which international students must adhere to. The vaccination list is comprehensive and applies to all levels of study:

• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Influenza
• Influenza type b (Hib)
• Measles
• Meningococcal
• Mumps
• Pneumococcal
• Pertussis
• Polio
• Rotavirus
• Rubella
• Tetanus and diphtheria toxoids
• Varicella

International students can receive the necessary immunizations in their home country or explore Student Cover’s United Healthcare insurance plans, such as SC Plus or SC Elite, which often cover most preventive care vaccinations in the United States.

It is essential to be aware that certain vaccines, like the Hepatitis B vaccine, may require a series of doses spread over several months. If a student misses a dose due to the start date of their course, they should consult with their university’s international office representative to explore the possibility of receiving the vaccination in the United States. However, it should be noted that vaccines are generally more expensive in the United States.

Remember, compliance with vaccination requirements is mandatory for all international students intending to study in the United States. To ensure a smooth transition and avoid any issues, students are urged to inquire about the specific immunization requirements at their respective universities.

For more information on studying in the United States, interested students can visit the U.S.-India Educational Foundation’s website: https://www.usief.org.in/Hyderabad.aspx They can also reach out via the following contacts:

• Phone/Whatsapp: 91-8008462712/8008465712/8008462560
• Email: usiefhyderabad@usief.org.in | hyderabad@educationusa.org

– US Consulate General Hyderabad