Virginia requires a physical examination, immunization records, and the School Entrance Health Form before your child can start school. Here's every form, where to get it, and the deadlines — all cited to official Virginia sources.
Last verified: September 8, 2026
Virginia requires the Commonwealth of Virginia School Entrance Health Form (MCH 213G) for every child entering a Virginia public school for the first time. This comprehensive form covers the physical examination findings, immunization history, developmental screening, lead testing, vision screening, hearing screening, and dental screening. Your pediatrician completes it during a well-child visit.
The physical exam must be completed within 12 months before the child's first day of school. The form must be signed by a licensed physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant.
(Source: Virginia Department of Health — School Immunization Requirements, accessed Aug 28, 2026)
Code of Virginia §32.1-46 requires documentation of immunization against specific diseases before a child can attend school. Virginia has one of the more comprehensive vaccine requirement lists in the country.
Required vaccines for school entry:
7th grade entry — additional requirements:
12th grade: A second MenACWY dose is required before entering 12th grade.
Virginia does not require TB screening statewide for school entry. However, some school districts — particularly in Northern Virginia (Fairfax County, Arlington, Alexandria) — may require a TB risk assessment or screening as part of the enrollment process. Check with your child's specific school district.
If your child has traveled to or lived in a country with high TB rates, the school may request documentation of a TB test (Mantoux/PPD or IGRA blood test) from your pediatrician.
Virginia law requires the School Entrance Health Form (MCH 213G) and immunization records on file before the child's first day of school. Schools must exclude students who don't have complete documentation or a valid exemption on file.
The physical examination portion of the MCH 213G must be completed within 12 months before the child enters school. Don't wait until August — if you schedule the well-child visit anytime from August of the prior year onward, the exam will be valid. Many pediatricians book up fast during summer.
Virginia allows provisional enrollment for students who are in the process of completing their vaccine series. The child must have received at least one dose of each required vaccine and must be on a schedule to complete the series. Documentation of the plan must be on file.
Virginia recognizes medical exemptions (signed by a licensed physician confirming a vaccine is medically contraindicated) and religious exemptions (a notarized written statement from the parent). For HPV specifically, parents may opt out at their sole discretion without a formal exemption filing. The governing statute is Code of Virginia §32.1-46.
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