For Pre-K through 12th Grade

State law requires students in Texas schools to be immunized against certain vaccine-preventable diseases. Getting your child vaccinated not only protects your child’s health, but also that of the community. The immunization requirements are set by Texas law and provided by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DHSH).

Pre-K Minimum Vaccine Requirements for Texas
K-12 Minimum Vaccine Requirements for Texas

College Requirements

All entering students at an institution of higher education* are required to show proof of an initial meningococcal vaccination or a booster dose during the five-year period prior to enrolling. They must get the vaccine at least 10 days before the semester begins.

DSHS College Requirements

Exemptions

Medical Exemptions: The law allows physicians to write a statement stating that the vaccine(s) required would be medically harmful or injurious to the health and well-being of the child. The written statement by the physician must be submitted to the school nurse. Unless it is written in the statement that a lifelong condition exists, the exemption statement is valid for only one year from the date signed by the physician. The Department of State and Health Services requires certain information be included in the physician note.

Information from the Department of State and Health Services regarding medical exemptions

For reasons of conscience, including religious beliefs: The law allows parents/guardians to choose an exemption from immunization requirements for reasons of conscience, including a religious belief. The completed and returned form from the Texas DSHS must be submitted to the school nurse in order for the student to be admitted. The school will accept only the original official affidavit forms developed and issued by the Texas DSHS. The affidavit will be valid for two years.

Information from Department of State and Health Services regarding exemptions

Request Reason of Conscience form from Texas DSHS