Frequently Asked Questions

How will courses be taught for Fall 2021 and what will the academic experience look like?

The majority of undergraduate classes will meet in person in accordance with our community standards, including face coverings and daily topper safe screenings.  Please check the course schedule to confirm how your courses will be offered.

Flexibility for individual courses. While Austin is at Stage 5, faculty members may opt for one online class meeting per week. Faculty members will communicate changes to course delivery directly to students.

What technology do students need for courses?

To ensure the quality and consistency of technology-enabled instruction, students at St. Edward’s University are expected to have at a minimum a recent and up-to-date computer (laptop/desktop) capable of running software needed for classes, a webcam, a microphone, earphones, and sufficient internet access.  See the Minimum Technology Requirements maintained by the Office of Information Technology (OIT) at support.stedwards.edu for detailed specifications.

• Student Technology Discount Programs
  • St. Edward's students receive discounts on laptops, desktops, and software.  Go to support.stedwards.edu  to find out more about Software and Hardware Discounts.
• Student Technology Support Programs
  • Students who are unable to meet the minimum technology requirements should use the SEU Student of Concern/Conduct Form to contact the university for help.

Students can expect to continue to use Canvas, Google Apps, Zoom, Panopto, Hypothesis, Honorlock and other technology tools for their courses. Check with your instructors about which devices are expected or allowed in the classroom and which technologies will be used in your course.

Will there be academic support, tutoring and/or study groups available?

Students have access to a number of academic support services, including tutoring and supplemental instruction. The university provides free, 24/7 online tutoring by request and peer-led supplemental instruction is offered in the fall and spring semesters for select courses. The Library, Writing Center and Math Lab provide specialized assistance. Students are also welcome to connect with each other through Canvas and utilize areas on campus for small group meetings.

What academic support services are available and how do students get connected?

Students have access to a full range of academic support resources including success coaches, student disability services, career coaches, library services, student financial services, and the registrar's office. Services are available both in-person (while adhering to community standards) and virtually. Details on how to connect with each office are listed on their webpage (including how to set up an appointment, contact information, and on-campus location/hours).

What if students have an in-person or blended/hybrid class but can’t attend due to illness, quarantine, and/or isolation?

After you submit your Topper Safe survey/complete the university COVID form and have started the quarantine or isolation process, please contact your professors as soon as possible to discuss ways to maintain your progress in their courses.

Will professors have office hours?

Yes. Professors may host office hours on campus or virtually via Zoom at their discretion.

Will online courses have required meeting times?

Online courses have two formats — synchronous and asynchronous. 

• Synchronous courses have required meeting days and times. 
• Asynchronous courses do not have required meeting times. 

Synchronous course meeting days and times can be found in Banner and in the course syllabus. Blended learning courses also will have course meeting days and times that can be found on Banner and in the course syllabus.All courses, regardless of instruction method, will prioritize student and faculty engagement and will take advantage of the best format for that particular class and discipline.

All courses, regardless of instruction method, will prioritize student and faculty engagement and will take advantage of the best format for that particular class and discipline.

Do blended/hybrid courses have in-person class meetings?

Yes. Students in a blended/hybrid class attend class in person at least once a week and for other class meetings attend via Zoom or complete online assignments. Instructors will communicate directly with students about when and where to meet.

Will the Chapel be open?

The Chapel will be open and accessible with proper ID for private prayer 24/7. Supplies for sanitizing the space occupied will be provided.

Will there be Mass on campus?

Mass will be offered daily at noon and on Sundays at 9 p.m. in the Chapel. Seating will be limited and ticketed each week until further notice and individuals must register to attend. The Sunday Mass will also be live streamed. 

After Mass, Holy Communion will be distributed outside the Chapel (walk-up or drive-thru) and brought to a central outdoor location on campus for those attending via live stream.

Will a face covering be required?

Yes, per the university's face covering policy which requires all individuals regardless of vaccination status to wear a mask indoors in shared spaces, masks must be worn by all individuals attending Mass in the chapel. Ushers and markers for physical distancing will guide seating and the communion procession.

What other prayer experiences will be available?

We plan to have Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament in the Chapel and Rosary at the Grotto as before. Small group Bible study will be available in person as well as online.

Will there be opportunity for service?

SERVE Austin will be available in the fall semester for fully vaccinated students only as per the agreement with our partner organizations. We will provide small group (up to 25 people) SERVE Projects on and off campus. The Office for Community Engagement will also link to our partners for virtual service experiences.

Can I walk around campus?

Yes! You are able to walk or drive around campus but we ask that you follow the social distancing recommendations issued by Austin Public Health and the CDC to protect your health and the health of those around you.

Are you having campus tours?

We are offering a variety of virtual experiences as well as small-group, outdoor campus visits and tours to help you get the full picture of life at St. Edward's. Check out our Visit page for more information.

Can I eat indoors in common public spaces around campus?

The university has aligned with Austin Public Health's Covid-19 Risk-Based Guidelines for Stage 5 which recommends that any indoor activity that requires individuals to remove their face covering be avoided. The indoor seating at our dining halls has been removed, and students have been advised to dine outdoors or in their individual living spaces if they are resident students. We require that face coverings remain in place while students are indoors in common public spaces. As such, we do not allow indoor dining in common public spaces at this time.

Are students living off-campus required to get a meal plan?

All undergraduate students are required to purchase a meal plan. Undergraduate students living off campus are required to purchase the commuter meal plan. Learn more about the university offered meal plans. 

What if I need additional financial support due to Covid-19?

The university community remains committed to supporting our students through the pandemic. Students can apply for emergency assistance, and community members can submit a Student of Concern form for any student (undergraduate or graduate) experiencing an emergency. Examples of emergencies include assistance with technology needs, rent, utilities, food and other essential household expenses. Learn more about support and resources for student emergencies. 

Will there be additional emergency financial assistance available for future semesters?

St. Edward’s University continues to monitor funding. Students will be notified as soon possible if further assistance is available. We encourage all students to contact their Student Financial Services counselor regarding any financial concerns.

Where can I find more information on emergency resources?

Need help with a difficult challenge or emergency related to Covid-19? The Dean of Students Office is here to make sure students and their families receive the care and assistance they require. 

What if my family’s financial situation has changed as a result of Covid-19 pandemic?

We understand the financial struggles this pandemic has brought on for many families and the situation is still very fluid. If you have any immediate questions or concerns please reach out to your Student Financial Services counselor.  

Our appeals committee will review any documented changes in finances for families that have been affected by Covid-19. The appeals committee may postpone review until an appropriate amount of time has passed for certain circumstances. Please refer to the special circumstances section of our site for more information.

If you have additional questions about student loans and the coronavirus, please see the complete Financial Aid FAQs document.

How is the university making decisions regarding Fall 2021 operations?

The St. Edward’s University Covid-19 planning and response is led by a team of cross-campus leadership with guidance from a panel of local, regional and national medical advisors and organizations. SEU continues to closely monitor local conditions and recommendations from the CDC, APH and our medical advisors, and uses this guidance to determine our level of operations for classes, student housing, campus events and activities, and any other adjustments to protect the health and safety of our campus community.

Have you tested positive for Covid-19?

We want to support you, particularly while you are self-isolating. If you have tested positive, been in direct contact with someone who has coronavirus, or are a person under investigation (PUI) for having coronavirus, please inform the university by completing this form. You may also contact the Dean of Students Office at 512-448-8408 during business hours or contact the University Police Department at 512-448-8444 after hours. UPD will get you in touch with the personnel from the Dean of Students Office.

Are students required to have health insurance?

Student wellbeing is essential for success. This statement is even more critical during a pandemic. As such, the university will continue to require that all registered students (enrolled in 6 or more hours) have health insurance. Students are automatically enrolled in the university's health insurance unless they successfully complete the waiver process documenting a private healthcare plan. Learn more about SHIP.

What counseling and health services provided on campus?

Health Services

Partnering with Ascension Medical Group Seton (AMG), the HCC provides convenient, affordable and quality health care. Services include a range of medical, medication management and nutrition services. Currently enrolled students, faculty and staff are all eligible to receive care through HCC’s Health Services. Learn more.

Counseling Services

Counseling services has been redesigned to prioritize crisis availability, remote support and drop-in workshops at no cost to students. A St. Edward’s clinical case manager will connect students to specialty services that may be needed off campus. After hours and during weekends, students can call UPD to access an on-call emergency counselor.

Please visit the Health & Counseling Center for the most up-to-date information.

What is Residence Life doing to promote the health and well-being of residential students in response to Covid-19?

All residential students will live in socially distanced housing that creates single bedrooms and ensures that most students only share a bathroom with one other student, with some students sharing three to a bath. Suites and apartments will continue to have multiple occupants within the large suite/apartment, based on the number of bathrooms in that suite/apartment.

• Students will be expected to abide by university safety guidelines including face coverings, hygiene, mandatory safety training, self-screening, reporting, testing and contact tracing.
• The guest policy has been adjusted to limit potential exposure: During move-in, each resident is permitted to have two guests assisting them.
  • After move-in, each resident may have two (2) guests at a time if those guests are St. Edward's students.  
  • At this time, non-SEU guests (including family members) are not permitted in the residence.
• The following signage will be posted throughout the residence halls: 
  • directional signs
  • occupancy limits for community spaces
  • guidelines for elevator use
  • physical distancing
  • face covering reminders
• We are maintaining our cleaning and disinfecting procedures in common area spaces: 
  • Hand sanitizers in common spaces
  • Water fountains have been dismantled but you may still use water bottle dispensers
  • High contact surfaces are not available to reduce the spread of Covid-19: lobby piano, community refrigerators, gaming equipment, kitchen supplies
  • Laundry services will continue to be available on campus with increased disinfection for the laundry facilities
• We are implementing a modified residential programming model that adheres to CDC safety guidelines.

I am currently in an apartment-style community where I will be sharing a bathroom, kitchen and living room space with roommates. What precautions do I need to take to be safe?

Students should think of their residential community as their “campus home,” and any suitemates or apartment-mates as their St. Edward’s “family unit.” To stay safe in this pandemic, suitemates and apartment-mates will be required to work together and protect each other. Communication is critical, so in addition to the traditional “Roommate Agreement,” we will encourage students who share a space to create Covid-related guidelines for their living space. Students will discuss what it means to be a family unit because it will be very important to understand each other’s needs and expectations, while sharing the space. Medical experts advise that students have a conversation about cleanliness, illness preparedness and social-circle size. Students will receive more information about navigating shared living spaces upon arrival.

If my suitemate/apartment-mate or I test positive for the coronavirus, will we be relocated to an isolated quarantine location?

No. Students who share either a bathroom or other common living space will be considered a “family unit” (or household). Therefore, if one member of the unit needs to be quarantined or isolated, all residents in the unit may need to quarantine for a period of time. Residence Life staff with work with the unit to coordinate meal delivery, laundry service and trash disposal, as well as provide daily virtual welfare checks. All residents are encouraged to read through the safety section of Healthy Hilltop.

Are there particular items related to Covid-19 that students should bring to campus?

• Additional cloth face-coverings
• Personal wipes
• Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and/or Ibuprofen: fever reducer 
• Robitussin or Guaifenesin (cough medicine)
• Throat lozenges/cough drops
• Kleenex
• Hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol content)
• Insurance card
• Name and phone number of primary health care provider
• List of allergies
• Prescription medication(s): at least a 3-week supply of each medication
• Antibacterial bar or pump soap and paper towels
• Cleaning supplies (Lysol/Clorox wipes)
• Mini refrigerator (Community refrigerators will not be assessable)
• Yoga mat for sitting in community spaces
• Broom/dustpan
• Cooking set/dishes if you plan to use the community kitchen
• Billiards equipment, ping-pong paddles (items will not be available in hall)

If I am living on campus, do I have to have a meal plan?

Yes, all residential students must have a meal plan.

What is the guest policy during Covid-19 operations?

As of May 24, 2021, only St. Edward's students will be allowed inside residential communities.

• Residents are permitted to host up to two guests at a time in their room.
• Whether in their own residential community or visiting another community, all students must wear a face covering in shared community spaces, hallways and elevators.
• If a student has been asked to isolate or quarantine due to Covid-19 concerns, they are not permitted to host any guests in the residential community. 

How is Residence Life handling mail and packages?

Our mail service process has not changed. Flat mail and packages will be delivered to the front desks of the individual residential communities. Flat mail will go in their assigned mailboxes and students will be notified when they have packages to pick up.

So much has changed. What’s not changing?

Our Residence Life team is excited that you are coming and we will work hard to provide the best residential experience possible while respecting physical distancing and other precautions designed to protect against the spread of the coronavirus.

What type of hall events and activities can I expect to experience this fall? 

In-person activities will be prioritized to help get students connected.  Some virtual activities could still be offered if we believe that activity is best offered in the virtual space.

Please see the most current information for international students.

Is the RAC open during the summer?

Yes, students will have access to the RAC Fitness Center. The center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 6:30 p.m. Reservations are required and can be made online.

What experiences can I have with RecWell? 

We will provide in-person and online fitness classes, limited in-person access to the fitness center by reservation, in-person and online peer wellness coaching, in-person small group and individual recreational activities and competitions, online education workshops, esports tournaments, fitness incentive programs, health and wellness education and training, and outdoor adventure camping gear available for rent.

Will a facial covering be required during activities?

Yes, a face covering will be required at all times while in the RAC or participating in RecWell programs in person.

Will the office hold in-person events on campus? If so, how will they look?

Yes, the department intends on holding thoughtful and engaging activities on campus. While adhering to social distancing guidelines, programs such as Step Into the Circle, Privilege Walk, Four Corners, and streamed panel discussions will be used to create dialogue around identities and awareness. University Community Standards will be followed for all engagements.

Will student organizations still hold meetings? If so, how will students participate?

Our office will be training student organizations in holding virtual and in-person meetings. These virtual meetings will be check-ins and invite speakers to meet with members. In-person meetings will be limited to 10 total participants in a space, while still engaging in community builders, icebreakers, and thoughtful conversations. University Community Standards will be followed for all engagements.

Will office-led workshops be offered online?

Yes, the office is providing a variety of virtual trainings and workshops to reach as many as possible. Electronic pamphlets will be provided for downloading, which will not require printing, in case students do not have access to printers in their remote location.

What can students expect when they arrive to campus from the Office of Student Diversity & Inclusion? 

When students arrive to campus, they can expect our office to welcome them with student-led programs and discussions geared toward advocating for marginalized communities and celebrating intersectional identities. Our office provides a multitude of ways for students to connect with one another. We believe once a student builds a healthy support system on campus, they are more likely to succeed. 

Our welcome programs, such as Queer Camp and First Gen Student Weekend, have been extremely well-received by our campus. Our student organizations meet regularly to help students feel comfortable once they arrive to campus. The Equity & Justice Council work diligently to offer students events throughout the year that are both informative and fun.

Through the Microaggressions and LBGTQIA+ Allies training, along with the creation of the Racial Bias workshop, our office will continue its commitment to seeking justice through dialogue and teaching. The department will continue to cultivate a welcoming environment through incorporating a holistic approach by partnering with various departments on campus, along with faculty members. Our goal is to engage in intentional action to address systems that impact our student’s ability to succeed.

Will I be able to join student organizations this fall and participate in their activities and events?

Yes, students will be able to join student organizations and participate in their events. Student organizations will be able to host online events, meetings and small-group activities.

What types of events will happen?

Events will happen in person, and in small groups.  Many small-group events will require a reservation. Students will be able to find all of our events on Collegiate Link. The university will continue to monitor local conditions and recommendations from the CDC, APH and our medical advisors to advise and adjust for event operations accordingly.

Will we be able to participate in large university events such as Hillfest, Homecoming, Topper Nights and The Big Event?

Under the current university guidelines groups are limited to 40 or less. We will evaluate our large-scale programs for options in the spring.

Can I still get a class ring?

We are working with our ring provider to evaluate how to support class ring fittings and other offerings.

Will a facial covering be required during activities?

Yes, face coverings will be required at all times while in the Student Involvement Suite or participating in student involvement in-person programs.

Does the university's vaccination policy comply with Texas Governor's Executive Order GA-35?

Yes, the policy is in compliance with the Governor of Texas' Executive Order GA-35, issued April 5, 2021, the university's policy will not deny services to those submitting documentation or a qualifying exemption. Qualifying exemptions for students include declining to provide the university an individual's Covid-19 vaccination status. In accordance with CDC guidelines, regional health authority guidelines, and external medical advisors, vaccination and exemption status is instrumental in supporting testing protocols, contact tracing, and quarantine/isolation management protocols.

Will St. Edward's require the vaccine for students and employees?

Yes, for the fall 2021 semester. The updated Covid-19 Vaccination Policy requires all eligible students, employees, and adjuncts to be fully vaccinated to be on campus.

Who is required to have the vaccine? 

• Students: All students accessing campus resources (e.g., residents, in-person learning, campus spaces) 16 years or older upon the start date of the enrolled term are required to be fully vaccinated. Individuals turning 16 within a semester will have 8 weeks (56 days) to submit documentation.
• Employees: Active university employees (staff, faculty and adjunct faculty) over the age of 16 on or before August 23 or are within 2 months (60 days) of turning 16 if underage at the policy effective date must provide documentation of their full vaccination. Additionally, new hires must provide documentation within 30 days of hire date.

Now that the Pfizer vaccine has FDA approval, will the university remove the EUA exemption on our vaccine requirement?

The university has a high vaccination rate with over 80% of students, faculty and staff fully vaccinated. We are currently focused on ensuring we have accurate documentation from all students and employees, including many students who are active in their vaccine series.

The university is assessing the current policy in light of the FDA approval and carefully considering the impacts of state laws and regulations on the policy. Any changes to the vaccine policy will be communicated to the campus community.

Will there be exemptions to the vaccine?

Employees and students attending on-campus classes may request an exemption from the vaccination requirement for medical or religious reasons. Students enrolled in or faculty exclusively instructing fully online degree programs are not required to have the vaccine. 

What procedures does the vaccination policy follow to submit a documentation and exemption?

The policy follows similar procedures for documentation and exemption submission as those established by the Texas State Legislature and Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board for meningitis vaccinations (THECB Rules, Chapter 21, Subchapter T, §21.612, §21.613, and §21.614). 

If I’m fully vaccinated, do I still need to participate in the university's testing process?

Fully vaccinated students, faculty, and staff are no longer required to participate in university asymptomatic testing. 

How do I report my vaccine status to the university?

The university has established a confidential and secure process for employees and students to submit proof of vaccination once they have completed all doses of the vaccine. Please note, individuals will be required to upload a photo or PDF of their vaccine documentation. 

Acceptable documentation includes: 

• CDC or similar non-us entity immunization card 
• Healthcare provider immunization record

Not acceptable documentation at this time

• Digital vaccine passport: Due to lack of a secure international standard.

I lost/ misplaced my vaccination record card, what do I do?

All vaccine providers are required to maintain records of vaccinations. Contact the healthcare provider(s) that provided your vaccine and request an immunization record. The official immunization record from a provider(s) can be submitted as documentation of vaccination. 

Will the university provide vaccines or secure vaccination appointments for students and employees?

The university has established a pathway for qualifying St. Edward's students and employees ages 16 years or older to pre-register for vaccination appointments through Ascension Medical Group. Eligible students must be enrolled in one or more courses for Summer or Fall 2021.  Students and employees are encouraged to review the pre-registration process for more details.

Does the university recommend one vaccine over another?

No. All FDA approved Covid-19 vaccines have been determined to be safe and effective. Consult with your medical provider if you have concerns regarding which vaccine to take. 

When am I considered fully vaccinated? 

According to the CDC, people are only considered fully vaccinated two weeks after receiving their second dose of the Moderna or Pfizer vaccines, or two weeks after the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

If I have health conditions and am concerned about receiving the vaccine, who do I contact? 

Contact your healthcare provider to determine if the vaccine is right for you.

How much does the vaccine cost? What if I don't have insurance?

The U.S. government has ensured the Covid-19 vaccine is for free for all people residing in the U.S., regardless of insurance or ability to pay. You can get the vaccine for free anywhere it is provided.  While a vaccine provider may ask for your insurance information, please note, the vaccine will still be free even if you do not have insurance.