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Back to Mac: Student guide to fall 2022

A graphic that reads ‘Back to Mac. Student Guide: Fall 2022’ and features a photo of a masked student studying with a notebook, pen and an open laptop in front of them.

The fall 2022 term marks a full return to regular, in-person learning as McMaster welcomes students, faculty, staff and visitors back to campus. This guide is intended to provide information and resources to help students excel in their academic journeys.

COVID-19 updates

Health and safety are a top priority. McMaster will continue to follow the latest COVID-19 safety guidance from public health and the Ontario government. McMaster faculty who are experts in virology and other health fields also help to guide our decisions.

The university will continue to monitor the situation closely. The following apply at this time:

  • McMaster’s Vaccination Policy continues to be paused. Students are encouraged to stay up to date with their vaccinations and to use MacCheck to upload proof of vaccination documentation for up to four doses.
  • Masks continue to be encouraged when indoors, especially in classrooms, libraries, crowded spaces or close workspaces. Masks are still required in some settings, such as hospitals.
  • Policies may change. If the pandemic and public health advice shifts and government requirements change, we may need to quickly re-instate a mask requirement and a vaccine policy. Resumption of the vaccine mandate would mean that access to campus is limited to those whose vaccinations are up to date. This could impact the ability for students to complete fully in-person courses.

Before your first commute

Plan for how you’ll get to campus, including applying for or renewing a full-time parking pass, researching public transit schedules or looking into bike racks and secure bike storage options.

Stay home if you are not feeling well

  • If you feel unwell or are experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms, please stay home. While daily MacCheck is not required, students must use the provincial self-assessment screening tool and follow the direction provided if they or someone they live with has symptoms or tests positive for COVID.
  • Students are encouraged to read the Policy on Requests for Relief for Missed Academic Term Work. The policy explains how to make a request for relief, which includes instructions on how to use the Mosaic McMaster Student Absence Form (MSAF) if screening results recommend that they isolate and are not permitted to come to campus.
  • Students will be able to access any additional MSAF forms through their Faculty Academic Advising Office if they need to miss additional class time due to illness, isolation or other personal reasons.

Additional resources

 Back to Mac Updates,  COVID-19 Updates,  Students