Testing for the virus that causes COVID-19 is a part of the Student Health and Wellness Center (SHWC) effort to help prevent the spread of the virus. This allows the SHWC to quickly inform students who are infected, even if they are not experiencing symptoms, and have them self-isolate so they do not spread the disease to others in the UTEP community.

All enrolled UTEP students who are currently taking classes (face to face or remote) are eligible to be tested. Students who would like to participate in the testing program fill out a one-time online consent form at: https://utep.medicatconnect.com. Please call the Student Health and Wellness Center at (915) 747-8818 or (915) 747-8824 prior to your visit to complete the process.   

No, the testing program is open only to enrolled UTEP students who are currently taking classes (face to face or remote).  

Students will be asked to present EITHER UTEP ID OR provide their student ID number AND a government issued ID at the time of appointment. 

COVID-19 tests are not required for students, but are highly recommended to help limit spread of the virus within our University community. 

Yes. The test is free, fast, convenient and voluntary.

No.  Students may walk-in to be tested as testing capacity permits. Please call the SHWC at (915) 747-8818 or (915) 747-8824 upon arrival in order for us to prepare your testing order for the collector to perform your test. Students who have tested positive for COVID-19 will not be permitted to test at the SHWC for 90 days because of the high possibility that a second test during this period will detect remnants of the virus, even if the individual is no longer contagious.  

Yes.  You should come directly to the SHWC to be tested but should not go to any other area on the UTEP campus due to potential risk of exposure.

No, this will be an antigen test.

When you arrive at the sample collecting station, the sample collector will insert a cotton swab into your nose to obtain a sample.

UTEP has hired collectors who are trained to collect test samples.  Your sample will determine if you are positive or negative for the coronavirus (SARS-CoV-19), which causes COVID-19.

Because samples will be assessed at the SHWC without relying on external laboratories, results will be available within an hour after your sample is collected. Each student will receive an e-mail notification that results are available. They will log in to a secure website to access the results. If the results are negative, no further action will be required. If your result is inconclusive/invalid, you are encouraged to take the test again.

If you are not experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, as defined by CDC, you may continue to come to class or work at UTEP as usual.

If your COVID-19 test is positive, please stay home. You should self-isolate for at least 5 days and wear a mask for 10 days. If your symptoms are moderate or severe, consult with your medical provider for guidance and recommendation on when to end self-isolation. If you have questions regarding COVID-19, you can contact Environmental Health and Safety at COVIDAction@utep.edu.