Duke to require proof of vaccination before students can enroll for fall semester

Duke University announced Friday that it will require students to present proof of vaccination before they can enroll for the fall semester.

This policy will cover all undergraduate, graduate, and professional students—in all degree programs—who intend to be on the Duke campus for any period of time starting with the Fall 2021 semester.

Documented medical and religious exemptions will be accommodated.

In a note sent from the university to students, Duke says that students have, and will have, ample opportunity to receive the vaccine.

"We have offered every current Duke student and employee the opportunity to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. Those students and employees who have not yet received a vaccination from Duke are urged to schedule an appointment as soon as possible," the message reads.

The message said the last 14 months "have been among the most difficult and exhausting in our university’s history."