Testing & Tracing
COVID-19 testing is a key part of Harvard’s collective efforts to reduce the spread of the virus, limit further mutation, and ensure that the safety protocols we’ve established are meeting their intended goals. The University’s testing plan is subject to modification based on community risk and the broader public health environment.
All Harvard affiliates with any on-campus presence are required to test at their assigned cadence. Testing cadences are determined by several factors, including your vaccination status, whether you live on or off campus, and infection rates in the local community.
Below, you’ll find answers to the following questions:
How do I set up my Color account and get tested?
Harvard has partnered with Color, a health testing company, to administer the University’s testing procedures. These include providing testing kits, sending test reminders, and delivering test results to individuals.
All testing is done through unobserved self-swabs.
1. Once you’re notified that you’re eligible for our testing program, you should create your Color account using your Harvard email address. For technical questions about creating your Color account, email support@color.com.
2. If you have trouble establishing your account, review the Color End User Support FAQ. If your question is not answered there, or if you have other questions about your testing eligibility, contact your School or Unit’s local testing coordinator.
3. To learn more about the steps for self-testing, see the training module “How do I self-swab?” linked below.
Where do I pick up my test kits?
You may have access to a local supply of test kits in your department, unit, or residence. Staff, faculty, and researchers: check with your supervisor. Students: check with your tutor/proctor/resident advisor, or unit or property manager.
You can also check with your School or Unit’s local testing coordinator for test kit pick-up locations.
See kit pick up information by School or UnitOpens new window
How do I self-swab?
Watch the self-paced training module to learn every step of the process—from creating your Color account to completing the self-swab.
Testing cadences
Anyone living in on-campus undergraduate housing
Undergraduates living off-campus (vaccinated)
Undergraduates living off-campus (unvaccinated)
Graduate students (vaccinated)
Graduate students (unvaccinated)
Faculty, staff, and researchers with a regular on-campus presence (vaccinated)
Faculty, staff, and researchers with a regular on-campus presence (unvaccinated)
Faculty, staff, and researchers with an infrequent on-campus presence less than once per week (vaccinated)
Faculty, staff, and researchers with an infrequent on-campus presence less than once per week (unvaccinated)
View the fall 2021 testing calendar for collection dates and times
Drop-off bins
Drop-off bins are available at multiple locations across campus to collect unobserved test samples. View the map and click or tap into each location to see last pick-up times. Test kits must only be returned to the designated drop boxes by the individual who tested; they should not be passed onto others or aggregated for group drop-offs.
I just got my test results. What’s next?
Color will send you an email and text notification when your results are available.
If my test is negative
No further action is needed. Continue to practice good hygiene, wear a face covering, and maintain your testing cadence.
If my test is positive
HUHS will contact you to explain next steps, including how to isolate, and follow-up by a trained, HUHS contact tracer.
If my test is unsatisfactory
Occasionally, your result may be unsatisfactory. If you receive an “unsatisfactory sample” you will need to promptly repeat the test.
I think I’ve been exposed. What should I do?
Steps to take if you think you were exposed to a COVID-positive individual—whether on or off campus—but you have not tested positive
Report your exposure to HUHS
Use Crimson Clear to inform us if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19 or if you have symptoms.
Follow HUHS’ exposure guidance
Read HUHS’ guidance document to determine your risk and next steps, which may include additional testing.
Answer HUHS contact tracing calls
Keep your phone nearby and answer all calls from HUHS.
COVID-19 Testing and Tracing
Data collection and privacy
Learn what data will be collected, how data will be used, and what the University is doing to protect your privacy.
Local testing resources
If you’re not eligible to participate in Harvard’s testing program, other local testing options include the Stop the Spread program (free to Massachusetts residents), the Cambridge Public Health Department program (free to Cambridge residents), and Boston COVID-19 testing sites.
Check with your local health department or your primary care physician to learn about other options.
Note that most insurance plans only cover testing if you have symptoms or known exposure to an infected person.