Massachusetts is one of a minority of states that require a physical examination certificate — not just immunization records — for school entry under M.G.L. c.76, §15. The physical exam is required at specific grade intervals, and immunization requirements are governed separately by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. Here is every form, who completes it, and when.
Last verified: September 8, 2026
Massachusetts law requires children to have a physical examination and produce a certificate from a licensed physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant at specified grade intervals. Under M.G.L. c.76, §15, physical exams are required for school entry at:
Massachusetts school immunization requirements are set by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) under 105 CMR 220.000. Every student must have immunization records on file before the first day of school.
Required vaccines for Massachusetts school enrollment:
The immunization record must be signed by a licensed healthcare provider. Massachusetts does not list Hepatitis A as a universal school-entry requirement (as of the time of this writing). Always verify the current year's requirements with the Massachusetts DPH Immunization Program before enrollment.
Massachusetts requires two additional vaccines specifically for 7th grade entry — both are common grade-entry requirements, but parents of children transitioning from elementary to middle school often discover gaps at this point:
If your child has not had either vaccine, schedule with your pediatrician well before the start of the school year. Your doctor can advise on timing based on your child's current immunization record — always confirm dose eligibility and scheduling with the provider.
Source: Massachusetts DPH — Immunization Requirements; 105 CMR 220.000, accessed Aug 30, 2026
Massachusetts pediatricians are extremely busy in July–August. Call early. The physical exam certificate must reflect an exam within 13 months of school entry. Most practices are booked 4–6 weeks out in summer.
Ask your pediatrician to print a MIIS record at the physical exam appointment. Confirm all required doses are present — especially Tdap and MenACWY if your child is entering 7th grade.
Leave the appointment with both the physical exam certificate and a signed immunization record. Keep copies — your child's school requires them, but you'll also want them for future enrollment.
Massachusetts schools require documentation before the first day. Contact your school health office to confirm whether they want forms mailed, emailed, or submitted at enrollment registration.
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Massachusetts recognizes medical and religious exemptions from school immunization requirements. Medical exemptions require documentation from a licensed physician. Religious exemptions require a written statement. Massachusetts law (M.G.L. c.76, §15) does not recognize a philosophical or personal belief exemption. For exemption forms and the official process, contact the Massachusetts Department of Public Health — Immunization Program.
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