This update is provided for archival purposes only.

Public Health guidance and University of Waterloo operations may have changed. For the most up-to-date information, please visit our COVID-19 frequently asked questions.

Rapid testing for asymptomatic employees and students

Thursday, June 17, 2021

This message was originally sent to students and employees by Feridun Hamdullahpur, president and vice-chancellor.


  • A COVID-19 rapid screening site will open in the Davis Centre on June 21, 2021
  • You can now book appointments online for asymptomatic testing if you come to campus regularly

I am pleased to announce that we will open a COVID-19 rapid screening site in the Davis Centre for eligible students and employees on June 21, 2021. As we work towards returning more people to campus, on-site rapid testing will help us identify people infected with COVID-19 that other screening protocols might otherwise miss.

Please read the following carefully before scheduling an appointment to be screened.  

Who can get screened for COVID-19 at this site?

If you have no symptoms of COVID-19, you come to campus regularly and you have regular contact with other employees, students or the public you should consider participating in the rapid testing program. Participation is not mandatory.

Examples of eligible participants include:

  • Researchers or instructors who cannot maintain physical distancing or who conduct human participant research
  • Employees and students working in labs on campus
  • Employees in Housing, Food Services and Plant Operations
  • Athletics coaching staff and front-line employees
  • Students living in Waterloo Residence, attending in-person classes, participating in athletics, or working on campus

Please note screen is for asymptomatic employees and students only. If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 you should contact the Health Services COVID-19 Testing Assessment Centre.

How do I learn more and book an appointment?

Screening is by appointment only, however same-day walk-in appointments are available if space permits. You can book appointments using the online booking system.

You can learn more about the COVID-19 Rapid Screening Site and book appointments on the Rapid Screening webpage.

Location details

Davis Centre (DC), Room 1301 (the Fishbowl)

Hours of operation

Monday: 8 am – 1pm
Tuesday 9am - 2pm
Wednesday 8am - 1pm
Thursday 11am - 4pm
Friday 8am – 1pm
 
I continue to strongly encourage everyone returning to campus to get a vaccine as soon as it becomes available to you. The vaccine and this testing are important steps in heling our whole campus community to remain safe and healthy as more and more of us begin to see each other in person again.