This is how the U of A’s rapid testing program will work

As university students across Alberta prepare to head back to class, the University of Alberta has revealed how its COVID-19 rapid testing program will work.

Last week the university announced its framework for returning students this fall amid the pandemic.

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Starting September 1, students, faculty, and staff who do not disclose their vaccinated status will be required to undergo weekly rapid testing before participating in on-campus activities.

Tests will be done at designated stations throughout the U of A. Students and faculty can find testing areas on Augustana Campus, North Campus, Campus Saint-Jean, and Enterprise Square.

The university will be using a self-administered nasal swab screening test, which gives results in approximately 15 minutes.

Participants of the university’s rapid testing program will be able to book appointments online.

The U of A also outlines procedures for students to self-declare their vaccination status ahead of the school year.

Between now and August 30, U of A students, faculty, and staff will be asked to complete their online vaccination self-declaration via email.

To self-declare your vaccination status, the school’s website asks visitors:

Wait for a request to self-declare your vaccination status. Invitations to self-declare will be sent to your @ualberta.ca email address. Requests will be sent between August 25 and 30.
When you receive your request-to-declare message, click on the “Vaccination Declaration” link in the email.
Log in, declare status, and submit the secure online form.

Once started, the process to self-declare should take less than five minutes.

In addition to the rapid testing program and vaccination status, non-medical face masks must also be worn in all public indoor areas where physical distancing is impossible.