COVID-19 updates from Auburn University

COVID-19 Information
University Messages

As latest updates become available involving Auburn University operations amid the COVID-19 pandemic, they will be posted here. Please check back often for helpful information that pertains to students, faculty, staff and the Auburn community as a whole

Latest Updates

Jun. 22, 2020

As part of preparations for the upcoming fall 2020 semester, Auburn University on Monday issued a modified fall academic calendar, prioritizing the health of the campus community and mitigating the spread of COVID-19.

The modified calendar reflects the potential impact of the coronavirus during the late fall months, should a possible peak occur. Auburn will begin the semester on Monday, Aug. 17, and end regular instruction on Tuesday, Nov. 24. Final exams will be administered remotely so that students do not have to return to campus after Nov. 24.

Jun. 18, 2020

To ensure a healthy and safe return to campus, Auburn is requiring face coverings inside university buildings, including classrooms and laboratories, beginning Monday, June 22. This requirement applies to everyone on campus and also extends to those attending university events in non-university buildings.

Jun. 16, 2020

Auburn University’s spring and summer graduates will be recognized in two ceremonies to be held in Jordan-Hare Stadium on Saturday, Aug. 8, contingent on current health and safety guidelines and weather. 

Jun. 11, 2020

Auburn will adhere to special guidelines for campus events from June 29, when on-campus instruction begins, through Aug. 8. During those dates, the university will allow events of fewer than 50 people, as well as some larger events, provided the events ensure appropriate physical distancing. For a list of guidelines for campus events during that timeframe, go here.

May. 29, 2020

Following months of careful preparation, Auburn has announced plans for its second summer mini-term that include a variety of instructional delivery methods, among them, on-campus instruction.

The decision follows Gov. Kay Ivey's recently amended orders to further open the state of Alabama by permitting increased access to educational institutions beginning June 1, 2020. In March, the university announced its decision to suspend on-campus instruction for the full 10-week summer session and the first of two summer five-week mini-terms following guidance from public health officials due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Jun. 2, 2020

University travel permitted on case-by-case basis

In balancing a gradual return to normal operations with the continued health and safety of the campus community, all university-related travel will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Travel essential to the mission will be permitted at the discretion of the executive vice president or the provost.

May. 8, 2020

In response to the coronavirus pandemic, Auburn University has made a number of important decisions about university operations, with the health and safety of our students, faculty and staff paramount to each. As we transition back to campus, it is essential that we continue to take reasonable measures to protect our own health as well as the health of the entire campus community, especially those most vulnerable to complications from COVID-19.

May. 6, 2020

Auburn launches online process for CARES Act student aid
Auburn University has now launched an online application process for students meeting certain eligibility requirements to apply for Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security, or CARES, Act funding for six needs categories: food, housing, course material, technology, health care and childcare. The university was awarded $7.8 million from the U.S. Department of Education, provided through the CARES Act, to provide emergency aid to students who have expenses related to the disruption of campus operations due to COVID-19. Those eligible can visit the following website for full details of the plan and how to apply: http://auburn.edu/sfs.

Apr. 27, 2020

Auburn University leaders continue to follow state and federal guidelines regarding COVID-19 and recommendations to protect the health and safety of our community. After careful evaluation, all operational modifications previously assigned a tentative May 9 end date have been extended through June 30, 2020.

Apr. 24, 2020

Over the past several weeks, our lives have changed in remarkable ways. While we have necessarily spent time apart to limit the spread of COVID-19, we have also watched as our human connection grows stronger.

Apr. 14, 2020

Auburn University to suspend student services fees for summer 2020

As part of Auburn's ongoing response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the university will suspend student services fees for the summer 2020 semester. The suspension will result in a savings of up to $838 for students. The student services fees are typically assessed each semester to provide for student activities that include organizations, on-campus programs, recreation, transportation, student governance and various other student-related projects. 

Auburn's summer semester consists of three sessions: Session 1: 10-week session (May 20 – July 31); Session 2: 5-week session (May 20 – June 23); and Session 3: 5-week session (June 29 – July 31). Courses offered during Sessions 1 and 2 will be delivered remotely. A decision regarding course delivery for Session 3 (remotely or on-campus) will be made by June 1, 2020. 

Summer registration for current Auburn students is open now through May 20.

Apr. 13, 2020

Auburn announces new Camp War Eagle schedule

As we prepare to welcome a new class of first-year students this fall, Auburn has announced a revised schedule for Camp War Eagle, Auburn’s orientation experience for incoming freshmen. Students will register for one of eight virtual Camp War Eagle sessions. At the virtual session, students will be introduced to Auburn’s educational resources, meet with an academic advisor and register for fall semester classes.

If the campus has reopened to events in July, students will be invited to a one-day introduction to campus. The visit will provide students with an in-person opportunity to explore their future home, learn about Auburn University traditions and experience Auburn community businesses.

As residents of Lee County, one of the hardest hit areas by the COVID-19 coronavirus, we’ve been heartened by the resilience of our community to weather the surge of this illness. As members of Auburn University’s administrative leadership, we are especially heartened by the responsiveness of our faculty and staff engagement in mitigating the impact on this pervasive challenge to the health and welfare of our communities.

Apr. 10, 2020

In response to testing limitations created by the COVID-19 pandemic, Auburn University is temporarily waiving test requirements for admission to most graduate programs that require the Graduate Records Examinations, or GRE, and the Graduate Management Admission Test, or GMAT, for summer 2020, fall 2020, and spring 2021 admissions periods.

Apr. 9, 2020

Campus events canceled through June 30

Auburn University has canceled all campus events, including camps, through June 30 amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Initially, the university had canceled events through early May, but that timeframe has now been extended in consultation with state and federal health officials.

A year ago, our campus was celebrating after a historic run to basketball’s Final Four. Some of us cheered on the Tigers in person, while others watched from home, with hundreds gathering at Toomer’s Corner when we prevailed at the Sweet 16. It was truly great to be an Auburn Tiger and a great time to be together.

Apr. 3, 2020

Auburn University adjusts to state’s stay-at-home order

As a result of the governor’s stay-at-home order this afternoon, all Auburn University buildings, with the exception of Samford Hall, will be locked with access restricted to those authorized for entry. Faculty and staff who previously performed their duties remotely should continue to do so to the greatest extent possible. Employees who need entry should contact their department heads or supervisors to ensure they can gain access. If after hours, faculty and staff may contact Campus Safety at 334-844-8888. There are no other changes to university operations beyond building access.

Mar. 27, 2020

Following the postponement of Auburn’s spring commencement ceremonies due to the COVID-19 outbreak, spring graduates will have the opportunity to participate in summer commencement when the university combines its spring and summer ceremonies on August 8-9, 2020.

As the nation continues to battle the coronavirus, faculty at Auburn University have emerged as go-to experts on the front line of a variety of COVID-19-related topics. Our researchers are proactively sharing their expertise in healthcare, the economy, community and education, helping those in the state of Alabama and beyond navigate the landscape inflicted by this deadly disease.

Auburn launched a resource website today that features several of our faculty experts’ take on a variety of COVID-19 concerns. All in our community are encouraged to use this new site as a helpful aid through these unprecedented times.

Mar. 26, 2020

Auburn University leadership continues to engage with state and federal authorities regarding COVID-19 and recommendations to protect the health and safety of our community. When the university initially transitioned to alternate operations in a variety of areas, such as remote delivery of instruction and remote work assignments, initial guidance stated that all operational modifications would continue through April 10 with reassessment in late March. 

After careful evaluation, all operational modifications previously assigned a tentative April 10 end date have been extended through May 9, 2020.

Mar. 23, 2020

Auburn University to offer summer 2020 courses

As students prepare to make fall and summer registration decisions, it is important to note that Auburn University will offer summer courses in the typical 10-week summer semester and two 5-week mini-semesters. Decisions regarding the manner in which courses will be offered (on-campus or remotely) will be made in the near future. Students are encouraged to work with their academic advisors to develop appropriate plans that support academic progression.

Mar. 20, 2020

Together, as a nation and as members of the Auburn Family, we are facing a time of considerable uncertainty. The coronavirus pandemic continues to bring rapid changes to the way we live and interact with others. The unprecedented interruptions and immediate impact of this pandemic occur at a critical time for our campus as we traditionally prepare for final exams and celebrate the academic and personal accomplishments of our students as a lead up to spring commencement.

In the wake of the COVID-19 crisis, our campus has anticipated the need for temporary modifications to two of our academic policies

Mar. 19, 2020

Auburn leadership monitoring conditions, remote instruction successfully underway

Auburn University’s leadership continues to receive frequent updates in consultation with state and federal authorities as to best practices and recommendations regarding COVID-19 concerns. Meanwhile, the university remains on remote instruction, and the university is providing assistance to faculty and students as virtual classes are successfully underway. Arrangements have been provided for students without access to needed technology for remote instruction, and answers are being made available to many frequently asked questions as this situation evolves. As Auburn assesses these ever-changing circumstances, the Auburn Family is asked to keep up to date on the latest developments involving Auburn’s response to COVID-19 by frequently visiting the university’s COVID-19 website. Any major updates will also be emailed to this list of those who signed up to receive ongoing communications.

Mar. 18, 2020

In addition to its ongoing support of students, Auburn University remains committed to its faculty and staff during this time of uncertainty involving COVID-19—ensuring that all current employees will continue to be paid at their regular rate through the spring term, even if they are unable to perform their normal job responsibilities.

Mar. 17, 2020

As already communicated, Auburn University has transitioned to an alternate operating model.  At this time, the University continues to conduct full university operations.  Supervisors are encouraged to be as flexible as possible to help minimize the spread of illness.  Where possible, remote working is encouraged.  Where remote work is not operationally feasible, supervisors are encouraged to work with employees to establish flexible schedules that may allow those employees to come to work for all or part of their regular work hours.

Mar. 17, 2020

As we enter our second day of remote instruction, I want to thank all of the faculty who have worked so diligently to transition your courses to remote delivery and our staff who stepped up to provide additional support. Again, I recognize that this sudden transition has resulted in unexpected adjustments for many of you. I appreciate your continued efforts as our campus pulls together to uphold our academic mission and support our students as they resume their academic work.

Mar. 16, 2020

The situation with COVID-19, the coronavirus, is changing, it seems, almost by the hour. In this uncertain atmosphere, I am touching base with two important messages. I ask you to please take time to read this letter.

Mar. 15, 2020

Based on the latest COVID-19 developments and best practices recommended by state and federal authorities, Auburn will transition to an alternate operations model starting Monday, March 16, to be fully implemented by close of business Monday. All Auburn employees who can perform their job responsibilities from a remote location should begin doing so as soon as possible but no later than close of business Monday, March 16.

Mar. 12, 2020

Auburn University will transition from on-campus instruction to remote delivery beginning Monday, March 16 and continue through April 10 in response to concerns about the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19).

Mar. 10, 2020

Auburn Medical Clinic to employ screening tent outside facility starting Monday, March 16

As a precaution, Auburn’s Medical Clinic will employ a screening tent outside its facility starting Monday, March 16 only for those exhibiting symptoms similar to that of COVID-19. For students, faculty or staff who believe they may have possible COVID-19 symptoms, we ask that they always call the Auburn University Medical Clinic at 334-844-9825 before visiting the clinic.  After hours or on weekends, people should always call the East Alabama Medical Center COVID-19 hotline at 334-528-7425 before going to the hospital, where a screening tent has also been implemented. Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough and shortness of breath, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

East Alabama Medical Center’s COVID-19 hotline call center hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.  The call center is closed on Saturdays and Sundays.

Mar. 2, 2020

Auburn University is recalling all of its travel abroad students and suspending all official international travel for students, faculty and staff until further notice given the global outbreak of COVID-19. Auburn officials report taking this action out of an abundance of caution for safety and following the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Feb. 28, 2020

University adds Italy, Iran to suspended travel list

Auburn is temporarily suspending all university travel to Italy and Iran, adding to the list that already includes South Korea and China, due to the coronavirus. This includes official travel for students, faculty and staff. University health officials encourage those who have returned from those countries within the last four weeks or have been exposed to someone who is ill and who has traveled there in the last month, to call the Auburn Medical Clinic at 334-844-9825.

Feb. 27, 2020

Alabama Extension Specialist Ken Macklin, a poultry microbiologist at Auburn, provides information about coronavirus in a video interview. His areas of research include bacterial disease control and prevention, farm food safety, and parasite control and prevention in poultry.

Travel to South Korea temporarily suspended, in addition to China

Auburn is temporarily suspending all university travel to South Korea for students, faculty and staff, in addition to the previously announced temporary ban of travel to China. University officials are also monitoring the coronavirus situation in Italy. They encourage those who have returned from those countries within the last four weeks, or have been exposed to someone who is ill and who has traveled there in the last month, to call the Auburn Medical Clinic at 334-844-9825.

Information for international travelers during spring break

Students and faculty who are planning to travel abroad in the coming weeks—particularly those traveling to countries impacted by coronavirus (COVID-19)—are encouraged to take needed precautions to ensure their health and the health of others. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention maintains a website outlining travel warnings and alerts for airline and cruise ship travel to specific countries, as it relates to potential coronavirus exposure. Upon return, students, faculty and staff who have reason to believe they may have been exposed or have symptoms associated with the coronavirus, should call the Auburn University Medical Clinic at 334-844-9825 before visiting the clinic. Afterhours or on weekends, they should call 334-749-3411 before going to the ER at East Alabama Medical Center.

Feb. 10, 2020

Professors Robert A. Norton, Ken Macklin and Ruediger Hauck provide an update and fact sheet about coronavirus on the Alabama Extension website. The site includes a downloadable PDF file.

Jan. 31, 2020

Due to continuing concerns regarding the spread of the coronavirus, Auburn is temporarily suspending all university travel to China for students, faculty and staff. University officials also encourage all students, faculty and staff who have returned from China in the past 14 days or been exposed to someone who is ill and who has traveled to China in the past 14 days to call the Auburn Medical Clinic at 334-844-9825.

Jan. 30, 2020

The State Department is advising travelers to avoid trips to China due to the novel coronavirus first identified in Wuhan, China. On Jan. 30, the World Health Organization determined the rapidly spreading outbreak constitutes a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. Travelers should be prepared for travel restrictions to be put into effect with little or no advance notice. Commercial carriers have reduced or suspended routes to and from China.

Jan. 28, 2020

Dr. Marilyn Bulloch, Harrison School of Pharmacy.

With the appearance of the coronavirus in the United States, there are a number of questions regarding what the disease is, how it is transmitted, who is vulnerable and how it is treated. Dr. Marilyn Bulloch, associate clinical professor in the Harrison School of Pharmacy’s Department of Pharmacy Practice, provides comments on what is known about coronavirus.

cdc.gov

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is closely monitoring an outbreak of respiratory illness caused by a novel (new) coronavirus first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China.

Coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). A novel coronavirus (nCoV) is a new strain that has not been previously identified in humans.

Last updated: May 15, 2020