Elmhurst University is planning a return to in-person, campus-based learning and living in the fall.

Based on the latest pandemic and vaccine rollout projections, and the low COVID-19 positivity rates the University has seen so far, Elmhurst will be prepared to welcome students back in August with a full array of on-campus courses and activities.

“Elmhurst University plans to be almost completely back on campus in the fall, and we’re committed to accomplishing this while continuing to prioritize the safety and well-being of our entire campus community,” said President Troy D. VanAken. “Our students prize an on-campus experience because it’s personal, student-focused and lived in the true spirit of community. We’ll be working hard to restore that environment for them.”

• Courses: The University anticipates offering the majority of courses in person beginning in the fall, in accordance with any state or federal guidelines regarding room capacities and occupancy. Remote learning options will be available for students who prefer that modality.
• Housing: Elmhurst is planning to operate its residence halls at close to full capacity, while adhering to public health guidelines.
• Student Experiences: Plans are to increase access to all campus dining operations and facilities, and to offer in-person student social activities and on-campus events, including cultural events and athletic contests.
• Safety Protocols: The University will continue to follow any federal, state and local health and safety guidelines that may still be in effect, including mask-wearing, physical distancing, testing protocols and gathering sizes. All students and employees are encouraged to get a COVID-19 vaccination.
• Enhanced Financial Aid: Understanding the continuing impact of the pandemic on families and individual students, Elmhurst University will offer enhanced financial aid opportunities for the hardest-hit families, as well as for incoming students who struggled with remote learning.

Elmhurst’s Fall Term 2021 plans will become firmer and more detailed in the coming months. The most recent information on Elmhurst University’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic is available on our website.

Thanks to the dedication shown by Elmhurst University students, faculty and staff to following the rules and keeping each other safe, the University community experienced a remarkably low 1% positivity rate for those tested on campus in the Fall Term. Testing data continues to show a low incidence of COVID-19 on campus.

“Our experience so far this academic year—especially the flexibility and resilience we’ve seen in our campus community members—has given us great confidence in our ability to be back on campus together this fall,” President VanAken said.