Student Health
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is required to quarantine?
Our post-travel quarantine policy follows guidelines set by New York State. If you have travelled to New York from a non-contiguous state, there is a mandatory 10-day quarantine, previously 14 days, with the potential to test out.
In order to test out of the 10-day travel quarantine, you must submit a negative PCR (not rapid) test taken within 72 hours before you return to New York and a second negative PCR (not rapid) test taken four days after arriving in New York. See below for guidance on submitting test results to gain access to campus.
If you have been exposed to someone who tested positive and directed to quarantine, you must do so for 10 days.
How can I get tested for COVID-19?
For students in NYC looking to obtain a diagnostic COVID-19 test, you can find a free testing site near you here. For additional locations in the United States, use this tool to search by your zip code. Please note that there may be fees associated with the test. You should call ahead to find out if there is a fee. If you are getting a test for the purpose of notifying Cornell Tech of your status, only non-rapid PCR tests will qualify. For more information contact studentwellness@tech.cornell.edu.
What if I test positive for COVID-19?
Whether or not you live in The House, you will be provided with instructions on how to isolate and how to obtain medical assistance, should you seek it. You are expected to cooperate with all Cornell Tech and NYC Department of Health contact tracing efforts.
If you are living in The House you will be directed to use either designated isolation spaces within The House or to a local hotel that participates in NYC’s COVID-19 hotel program. Regardless of isolation location, you will be able to purchase food to be delivered to you and will have access to virtual supportive resources throughout the extent of your isolation period. Isolation will discontinue when you have met the following three criteria: demonstrated improvement in symptoms, 24 hours fever free without the aid of fever reducing medication, and 10 days after your symptoms began. Additional questions on steps to take if you have COVID-19 can be addressed to studentwellness@tech.cornell.edu.