Back to Mac: Student Guide

September 3, 2021 ·

Contributed by: McMaster University

This September will look and feel a bit different, whether you have been on campus throughout the pandemic, are returning to a familiar place or are arriving in Hamilton for the first time. This guide gives you the most important information and resources you will need for the first few weeks of term. We each have a role to play in keeping ourselves and our community safe.

In this guide:

Student checklist

Download Student Checklist

Before coming to campus

Complete the mandatory COVID-19 awareness training.
Visit MacCheck online starting September 7. See here for where community members will need to show MacCheck clearance.
Upload proof of vaccination to our digital tool MacCheck. All students must declare their vaccine status between September 7 and October 18. More details in our FAQ. Information on exemptions can be found here.
If you are not fully vaccinated, you must get tested to come to a McMaster location.
Complete the COVID-19 Check-In on MacCheck, including health screening questions, in the hour prior to leaving for campus.
Bring with you:
- A mask or face covering; and
- Your student ID card – if you need a new or replacement card, here’s instructions for students.
Plan for how you’ll get to campus, including applying for or renewing a parking pass, researching public transit schedules or looking into bike racks and secure bike storage options.
Review the Principles and Practices for an Inclusive Community.
Review the Back to Mac website for additional information and safety measures.

While on campus

Keep at least 2 metres distance from others except in designated instructional areas such as classrooms, laboratories, libraries.
Wear your mask covering your nose, mouth and chin.
Sanitize your hands when entering a building.
Follow health and safety signs on campus.
Be respectful of others and have compassionate conversations.
Report to the university through Mosaic if you test positive for COVID-19.

Working together to keep you and campus safe

Requiring vaccination: The scientific evidence in support of vaccination as the best defense against new COVID-19 infections is overwhelmingly compelling and McMaster’s own infectious disease experts agree.
Ventilation assessment and upgrades: McMaster’s ventilation plan involves assessing and making any required updates to the ventilation systems.
Enhanced cleaning: McMaster has a comprehensive cleaning and disinfecting plan that includes increased cleaning of high-touch surfaces.
Hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes: These are provided in public spaces.
Signage: Our buildings have been equipped with clear signage providing direction on masking, hand washing, screening requirements including symptoms and staying home when sick, and other health and safety measures.
Masks: As per provincial regulations, non-medical masks or face coverings continue to be required in all indoor spaces, and in outdoor settings when 2 metre distance cannot be maintained. Complete guidelines and protocols here.
Safety requirements for individuals: Everything you’re required to do, others are too. We expect the whole community to follow health and safety measures set out by the University and the province, including wearing a mask, doing the daily COVID-19 screening via MacCheck, completing required training, uploading proof of vaccination or exemption, and following good hygiene practices.

Navigating campus spaces

Campus building map: Find your way around campus using this interactive map and virtual tours.
Outdoor space map: In addition to preparing indoor spaces, we have reimagined our outdoor spaces on campus to maximize opportunities for people to safely learn, study, socialize and collaborate in the fresh air.
COVID-19 testing: Report all positive COVID-19 test results on Mosaic.
Asymptomatic COVID-19 Testing Centre on campus: If you are not fully vaccinated, you must get tested to come to a McMaster location or off-site affiliate location and receive a negative test result twice a week. Go to the Asymptomatic COVID-19 Testing Centre on campus (Location: McMaster University Student Centre, Room 311).
Student Symptomatic COVID-19 Testing Centre: Students with symptoms of COVID-19 or have been exposed to COVID-19 can get tested at the Student Symptomatic COVID-19 Testing Centre (Location: Les Prince Hall, Room 109). Call (905) 525-9140 ext. 27700 to book an appointment. Open Monday to Friday.
On the weekend, students with symptoms or exposure can attend a COVID-19 testing centre in the community by booking a test online.
Faculty members and staff with symptoms of COVID-19 or exposure can book a test at an assessment centre in the community. In Hamilton, you can book a COVID-19 test online.
Athletics & recreation facilities: The Pulse is open in a limited capacity for McMaster students. The outdoor fields and running track; the David Braley Sport Medicine & Rehabilitation Centre; trails; and the softball diamonds will also be open for the fall term.
Food services: Main hospitality locations (11 of 18 outlets) are open for Fall 2021.
Welcome Week tent: Open August 30 – Sept 8 | 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Located in front of Mills Library.

Resources and support

Issues with your MACID or email? Contact University Technology Services.
Have questions about tuition, fees or enrolment? Contact the Registrar’s Office.
Need help with your course schedule or have other academic questions? Reach out to your Faculty’s advising office or the Student Success Centre for support.
Feeling stressed, anxious or overwhelmed by the transition? The Student Wellness Centre has resources that can help.
Experiencing a financial emergency? Reach out to Student Services for support.
Travelling to Canada and have questions? International Student Services is here for you.
Looking for information and resources for grad students? Check out the Grad Studies website
Need a mask? They will be on sale at the Campus Store.