Compliance

All MSUCOM students are expected to remain in full compliance with university, college and career-related requirements throughout their time in the program. This section provides a high-level overview of those expectations and serves as a companion to the SIS OMED Prematriculation Checklist, which will be assigned to you once your admission is officially processed.

Understanding these requirements early will help you prepare for your transition into medical school and reduce stress during onboarding. This information is especially useful for:

• Admitted students 
  • Preparing to access and complete their SIS OMED Checklist, using this as a companion guide.
• Waitlisted students
  • Proactively gathering documentation and starting compliance steps in advance.

Being proactive helps streamline your onboarding process and avoid stressful deadlines before the start of class. If you accept your seat later in the cycle, starting compliance steps as soon as possible is paramount to ensure a smooth transition into the program.

Even if you ultimately accept a seat at a different medical school, you will likely need most of this information – taking proactive steps now will only assist you later.

This page, together with your SIS OMED Checklist, will guide you through each compliance step and is designed to help you:

• Understand each requirement
• Organize and submit documentation
• Track your progress toward full compliance

The COM Compliance Team will support you through:

• Live and recorded webinars
• Instructional materials
• Step-by-step guidance for uploading documentation to the third-party compliance system

• MSUCOM Onboarding Timeline & Checklist
• More to be added as they become available

Before beginning Gross Human Anatomy, all incoming medical students must complete required immunizations, antibody titer testing and health screenings. These requirements are mandatory for participation in clinical training and reflect professional health care standards.

This page serves as your primary and most current source for information. Deadlines, updates and announcements will be posted here as they become available.

Start Early — Don’t Wait for Orientation

• Begin gathering your documentation as soon as possible. Waiting until Orientation may cause delays that can impact your ability to participate in coursework, labs and clinical activities.
• The Compliance Guidance & Definitions section below provides helpful tips for retrieving immunization history.

 Important Notes on Titer Testing

• Titer testing can take time, especially if additional vaccinations or follow‑up testing are required.
• A titer should be drawn at least 28 days after your most recent vaccine dose.
• Delays in this process may prevent you from meeting compliance deadlines.

Follow MSUCOM Guidance

• Compliance expectations for health care students differ from general patient guidelines. Always follow MSUCOM and CDC standards.
• Relying on outside guidance (including personal providers) without confirming with MSUCOM may lead to unnecessary steps, incorrect documentation or significant delays.
• Students are responsible for delays caused by following external advice.

Required Immunizations & Screenings

Students must provide documentation for the following health and medical compliances (details provided in each accordion):

Measles, Mumps and Rubella are highly contagious diseases. Vaccination against MMR remains a CDC health care requirement. In the U.S., these vaccines are typically administered together as the MMR vaccine.

Documentation Requirements

• Proof of a properly spaced MMR vaccine series (two doses, 28 days apart).
• Separate IgG antibody titer results for Measles, Mumps and Rubella (three titer reports needed).

Important Notes

• If your vaccine series was administered as separate components, note that Rubella only requires one live dose.
• Only IgG antibody titers are accepted; IgM titers do not meet requirements.
• If your titers are negative or equivocal and you have documentation of a complete vaccine series, the CDC does not recommend booster doses. Consult your health care provider if you wish to pursue additional vaccination based on your health history or career goals.
• Your SIS OMED Checklist will ask you to acknowledge that you will complete this requirement as instructed and reach out for help if you have questions or confusion.

Varicella is a virus that can cause serious complications in vulnerable populations. Some students may have natural immunity from a childhood infection, but all students must demonstrate immunity through proper documentation.

Documentation Requirements

• Proof of a properly spaced Varicella vaccine series:
  • Two doses spaced 28 days or 3 months apart (depending on age at administration).
• A Varicella IgG titer result confirming immunity.

Important Notes

• If administered before age 13, doses must be spaced at least three months apart.
• If administered at age 13 or older, doses must be spaced at least 28 days apart.
• Only IgG titers are accepted; IgM titers do not meet requirements.
• If your titer is negative or equivocal and you have documentation of a complete vaccine series, the CDC does not recommend booster doses. Consult your health care provider if you wish to pursue additional vaccination based on your health history or career goals.
• If you have a history of Varicella infection but no vaccine documentation, a positive/reactive IgG titer is required. If your titer is negative or equivocal and you lack vaccination history, you must complete the vaccine series.
• Your SIS OMED Checklist will ask you to acknowledge that you will complete this requirement as instructed and reach out for help if you have questions or confusion.

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a bloodborne pathogen that poses a significant risk in health care settings and can cause serious liver disease. MSUCOM requires all students to provide documentation of a complete Hepatitis B vaccination series and confirmation of immunity through a positive Hepatitis B Surface Antibody (HBsAb) titer.

Documentation Requirements

• Proof of a properly spaced Hepatitis B vaccine series:
  • Option 1: 2-Dose Series (Heplisav-B)
    • Two doses spaced 28 days apart.
  • Option 2: 3-Dose Series (Engerix-B or Recombivax HB)
    • Standard Schedule:
      • Dose 1 → Dose 2: Minimum 28 days
      • Dose 2 → Dose 3: Minimum 5 months
    • Accelerated Schedule for Health Care Professionals:
      • Dose 1 → Dose 2: Minimum 28 days
      • Dose 2 → Dose 3: Minimum 3 months
• A Hepatitis B Surface Antibody (HBsAb) titer confirming immunity (must be positive).
  • If your titer is negative or equivocal:
    • Receive a single booster dose.
    • Repeat titer after 28 days.
  • If still negative or equivocal, additional steps are required — contact com.compliance@msu.edu for guidance.

Important Notes

• Once you begin a series, you must complete it using the same vaccine type — mixing types is not permitted.
• Only Hepatitis B surface antibody titers (HBsAb) are accepted to prove immunity.
• Quantitative vs. Qualitative Titers: Some clinical sites may require quantitative results. To avoid repeat testing later, consider requesting quantitative titers now.
• Following external vaccination guidance may result in delays or additional steps. Contact the Compliance Team if you are unsure: com.compliance@msu.edu.
• Your SIS OMED Checklist will ask you to acknowledge that you will complete this requirement as instructed and reach out for help if you have questions or confusion.

Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious airborne bacterial infection and remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide. MSUCOM requires all students to complete TB screening prior to matriculation and annually thereafter.

Documentation Requirements

Choose one of the following screening methods:

• 2-Step TB Skin Test (PPD):
  • Four total clinic visits within a 21-day period.
  • Results must include measurement in millimeters (mm) and interpretation (positive/negative).
  • In subsequent years, a single annual skin test is sufficient.
• TB Blood Test (e.g., QuantiFERON Gold):
  • Preferred method for accuracy and ease of use.
  • Required for students who have received the BCG vaccine to prevent false positives and unnecessary diagnostic tests.
  • Can be used for annual screening.

Important Notes

• If your TB screening result is positive, additional steps will be required. Contact the Compliance Team promptly: com.compliance@msu.edu.
• If you have a prior history of a positive test, you must provide:
  • Documentation of a reactive TB skin test.
  • Chest X-ray results.
  • Completed TB Symptom Review Form — reach out to com.compliance@msu.edu to request the form.
  • The Compliance Team will provide an individualized plan for future screenings.
• Students who receive the COVID-19 vaccine or booster within 4 weeks of TB screening may experience false positive results. Plan accordingly.
• The BCG vaccine is commonly administered outside the U.S. for tuberculosis immunity.
• Students typically choose between the two TB screening options based on insurance coverage and out-of-pocket costs, considering checking your insurance plan first.
• Your SIS OMED Checklist will ask you to acknowledge that you will complete this requirement as instructed and reach out for help if you have questions or confusion.

The Tdap vaccine protects against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (whooping cough). It is a standard requirement for health care professionals. Tetanus (Td) boosters are needed every 10 years.

Documentation Requirements

• Proof of an adult dose Tdap vaccine administered within the last 10 years.
• If your Tdap vaccination is older than 10 years, you must receive a Td or Tdap dose prior to matriculation to ensure continued immunity.

Important Notes

• If your Tdap or Td vaccination will expire within the next 5 years, consider receiving a booster now. Medical school schedules are demanding, and access to care is easier before matriculation.
• While a Td booster is accepted, a Tdap booster is recommended to maintain protection against pertussis.
• If you are unsure whether your documentation reflects a Tdap or Td vaccine, consult your health care provider or contact the Compliance Team.
• Your SIS OMED Checklist will ask you to acknowledge that you will complete this requirement as instructed and reach out for help if you have questions or confusion.

Influenza is a serious viral respiratory illness that has caused widespread outbreaks, including pandemics. Annual vaccination is required to reduce the risk of infection, transmission and severe illness. This requirement aligns with CDC recommendations and health care professional standards.

Because medical school begins in summer — between influenza vaccine seasons — you are not required to submit influenza documentation during onboarding. However, this is an annual requirement, and documentation is due each year by November 1st.

Documentation Requirements

• Submit proof of your current season’s influenza vaccination (available starting in late August).
• If vaccinated outside MSU, documentation must include:
  • Date of administration.
  • Vaccine type.
  • Name of the clinician or facility that administered the vaccine.

Important Notes

• You cannot complete this requirement until the updated seasonal vaccine becomes available in the fall.
• This requirement must be fulfilled annually, even if you received a flu vaccine earlier in the calendar year that does not align with the current flu season.
• Your SIS OMED Checklist will ask you to acknowledge that you will complete this requirement as instructed and reach out for help if you have questions or confusion.

Polio is a serious viral disease that can cause permanent paralysis and other severe health complications. While MSUCOM does not require polio vaccination for enrollment, students are strongly encouraged to submit documentation of prior vaccination or laboratory evidence of immunity.

Recommended Actions

• Submit documentation of a complete polio vaccine series:
  • Typically four doses of Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV) or three doses of Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV).
• If vaccine records are unavailable, you may submit a polio antibody titer as evidence of immunity.

Important Notes

• This is a recommended, not required, compliance item.
• Providing documentation helps MSUCOM support your eligibility for future clinical placements, some of which may require proof of polio immunity.
• Your SIS OMED Checklist will ask you to acknowledge that you understand this recommendation and will upload documentation if available.

COVID-19 is a viral respiratory illness that can lead to severe complications and is highly transmissible in health care and community settings. Vaccination helps reduce the risk of infection, transmission and serious illness.

While MSUCOM does not require COVID-19 vaccination for matriculation, students are strongly encouraged to submit documentation of their vaccination status. Clinical partners may require proof of vaccination for participation in certain rotations or patient care activities.

Recommended Actions

• Submit documentation of your COVID-19 vaccine series, including:
  • Manufacturer (e.g., Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson).
  • Dates of each dose.
• If applicable, submit documentation of any booster doses received.

Important Notes

• COVID-19 vaccination requirements may vary by clinical site. Submitting documentation now helps ensure readiness for future placements.
• Delays in clinical rotations due to vaccination status will be your responsibility and could affect your graduation timeline.
• Your SIS OMED Checklist will ask you to acknowledge that you understand this recommendation and will upload documentation if available.

Before starting Gross Human Anatomy, students must complete additional compliance items essential for participation in clinical training. These requirements uphold the professionalism and safety standards expected of health care providers.

Developing strong organizational habits now will support your success throughout medical school. Many compliance requirements will recur annually or at key points in your training. Staying proactive will help you manage these responsibilities effectively alongside coursework.

Required Degree Compliance Items

Students must complete the following when directed by the College:

To ensure eligibility for matriculation and uphold MSUCOM’s affiliation agreements, all incoming students must complete a background check and urine drug screening prior to the start of anatomy. MSUCOM uses a third-party vendor to manage these requirements.

Key Details

• Detailed instructions will be sent to the email address listed in your AACOMAS application and/or your Spartan Mail account.
• The COM Admissions and Compliance Teams will host a webinar to walk you through the process and answer questions. Watch for announcements throughout spring and summer.
• Background check and urine drug screen should be completed between May and June, before orientation.

Important Notes

• Nationwide testing sites are available for students in the contiguous U.S.
• Students outside the U.S. may need to delay the urine drug screen until relocated, or returned from travel, to Michigan. If you cannot complete the urine drug screen by July 1st, you should email com.compliance@msu.edu before June 1st to request an extension.
• Your SIS OMED Checklist will ask you to acknowledge that you will complete this requirement as instructed and reach out for help if you have questions or confusion.

To prepare for clinical environments and comply with federal regulations, MSUCOM requires all students to complete annual training in:

• HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act)
• Bloodborne Pathogens (BBP) & Universal Precautions

These trainings ensure you understand how to protect sensitive health information and manage exposure risks safely.

Training Details

• Modules will be assigned in the Ability Training System after your summer enrollment is processed (typically early June).
• Wait for the modules to be assigned — do not attempt to enroll yourself.
• You will receive an email notification via Spartan Mail when the modules are ready.
• First-year training must be completed before the first day of anatomy.
• In subsequent years, training must be completed annually before June 1st.

Best Practices

• Plan to complete training by the end of each spring semester.
• The COM Registrar Team verifies completion in Ability; no need to email certificates.

Important Notes

• These courses are essential for your safety and professionalism in clinical settings.
• Your SIS OMED Checklist will ask you to acknowledge that you will complete this requirement as instructed and reach out for help if you have questions or confusion.

As an MSUCOM student, you are expected to maintain active health insurance coverage throughout your enrollment. Continuous coverage ensures you can meet important health-related requirements — such as immunizations and TB testing — without interruption.

Enrollment & Activation

• After you are registered for your Summer semester courses, MSU will automatically enroll you in the student health insurance plan — no additional action is required.
• Coverage begins on June 1st of your first summer semester.

Waiving Coverage

If you already have comparable health insurance, you may request to waive the MSU plan. To do so, you must submit proof of coverage that meets standards outlined by MSU Human Resources.

Resources:

• Waiver Instructions and Form
• MSUCOM Health Insurance Policy

Important Notes

• Review your coverage options early and reach out with any questions.
• Maintaining uninterrupted coverage is essential for your success and well-being as a medical student.
• Students waiving insurance will be required to do so multiple times to prevent the automatic charge from occurring each semester — students will need to monitor their waiver approval dates.
• Your SIS OMED Checklist will ask you to acknowledge that you understand this requirement and will ensure there are no lapses in coverage that could affect your ability to meet compliance requirements or participate in MSUCOM activities.

These items are required of all MSU students and must be completed in order to maintain good standing. Any updates or additional requirements issued by the university will be enforced by MSUCOM for all enrolled medical students.

MSUCOM students must uphold the highest standards of professionalism and integrity, especially in research settings. The Responsible and Ethical Conduct in Research (RECR) training is a federal requirement for all students at institutions receiving National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding.

Training Components

• CITI Training Modules: Complete four specific modules in the CITI Training System before the end of your first year.
• Discussion-Based Training: Complete six hours of RECR training before the end of your second year.
  • Sessions are provided by the MSUCOM Research Department and listed as mandatory events on your student calendar.
  • Some training may be integrated into courses; others scheduled independently.
  • Attendance at all listed RECR sessions is required. If you miss a COM-offered session, you must make up hours through Graduate School RECR offerings.

Important Notes

• If you completed RECR training as an undergraduate, you must repeat it as an MSUCOM student. This is a university requirement for every student level — Undergraduate, Graduate and Graduate-Professional. Students in dual-degree programs must also complete RECR training for each program because each degree represents a separate student level.
• Your SIS OMED Checklist will ask you to acknowledge that you will complete this requirement as instructed and reach out for help if you have questions or confusion.

Due each August for all MSUCOM students. This background check is completed by MSU Human Resources at no cost to you or the College. More details will be posted when the online application system becomes available.

(Also referred to as Career Compliance Requirements)

These requirements prepare you to meet state licensure standards. The trainings listed below contribute to the documentation you will need when applying for your Michigan limited license after earning your D.O. degree.

Training is completed progressively throughout your time at MSUCOM. Students are responsible for maintaining their certificates to upload to the Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) system during the Michigan licensing process. These certificates may also be required for other licensing applications.

Provided by MSUCOM in Semester 3.

Provided by MSUCOM in Semester 6.

Provided by MSUCOM in Semester 7.

Booster – A booster dose refers to a single adult dose of a vaccine administered to enhance or restore protection.

LARA – The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) is a principal department in the Michigan executive branch that oversees employment, professional licensing, construction, and commerce. LARA's Bureau of Professional Licensing (BPL) issues initial licenses to physicians, including D.O.s, who meet the state's qualifications. D.O. medical students will interact with LARA as part of their application for licensure, which includes certifying their medical education and postgraduate training. MSUCOM students apply to LARA for an Educational Limited License (EDLL) after degree conferral, allowing students to practice under supervision for up to five years while meeting full licensure requirements like exams (USMLE/COMLEX), postgraduate training and continuing education.

Michigan Limited License – Another term for Educational Limited license.

TB Blood Test – An alternative to the skin test (e.g., QuantiFERON Gold), especially recommended for students who received the BCG vaccine, which may cause false positives in TB skin tests.  If TB blood testing is chosen, a single TB blood test is required upon matriculation, followed by annual single-step testing.

TB Skin Test (PPD) – A diagnostic test for tuberculosis where a small amount of purified protein derivative (PPD) is injected under the skin. The site is checked 48–72 hours later for a reaction.  If TB skin testing is chosen upon matriculation, a two-step test is required.

1-Step TB Skin Test – A single administration of the TB skin test, followed by a reading within 48–72 hours. Used for annual screening after initial baseline is established.

2-Step TB Skin Test – A two-part process used to establish a baseline. The first test is administered and read; if negative, a second test is given 7-21 days later and read. This helps detect a boosted immune response from past exposure.

BCG Vaccine – A vaccine for tuberculosis commonly administered outside the U.S. It may cause false positives in TB skin tests.

Titer – A blood test that measures the presence and quantity of antibodies. 

Must be a surface antibody titer to meet MSUCOM compliance requirements.

Interpretation Guidance – If your titer result is negative or equivocal, boosters are not required if you have documentation of a properly spaced vaccine series, except for Hepatitis B, which requires a positive surface antibody titer. You may consult your health care provider regarding boosters of other vaccine series to determine what is best for you based on your history and career goals.

IgG – Immunoglobulin G antibodies indicate past exposure or immunity. A positive IgG generally means you have long‑term protection, either from prior infection or vaccination.

IgM – Immunoglobulin M antibodies indicate recent or current infection. IgM is not used to meet MSUCOM compliance requirements for immunity.

Immunization History – If you are unsure where to locate your records, contact your primary care provider, previous schools or state immunization registry.

The Michigan Immunization Portal is a useful resource for Michigan residents. 

Refer to How to Find Your Immunization Record for additional assistance. 

Vaccine – A biological preparation that provides active acquired immunity to a particular infectious disease.