Updated May 12, 2023
Refer to the summary chart for a quick comparison of PCR and antigen tests.
Follow the COVID-19 Public Health Flowchart if you test positive, have symptoms, or had a close contact exposure.
COVID-19 viral tests are diagnostic tests that can tell you whether you are currently infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 at the time of the test. COVID-19 viral diagnostic tests can be either antigen tests (e.g., rapid at-home self-test) or molecular tests (e.g., PCR).
When to test
- If you have COVID-19 symptoms such as a sore throat, cough, fever, congestion
- If you were exposed to someone who has COVID-19 (and you have not tested positive in the past 90 days)
- When returning to the University after academic breaks
- Before and after a large social event or gathering
- When you are asked to get tested by the University, the local health department, or your healthcare provider
How to get a test
Locations that offer PCR and antigen tests for personal use are listed on the University's COVID-19 testing webpage.
University units that utilize rapid antigen tests to support their operations can order them with a budget number from the UW Clean and Safe Storefront.
Which test to use
Consider these factors when choosing between a molecular PCR test and a rapid at-home antigen test.
PCR test |
Antigen test |
- Best for early diagnosis of an infection
- Can detect an infection in individuals with no symptoms and those who have COVID-19 but aren’t infectious
- Use when you start developing COVID-19 symptoms
- Use after a close contact exposure to someone with COVID-19
- Screen prior to a social gathering, activity, venue entrance or event when you are symptom-free
- If you need to confirm the results of an antigen test
- For travel or venues/events requiring a negative PCR test result
|
- Best for screening and rapidly identifying infectious individuals with symptoms and in high transmission settings
- Use when returning to campus after academic breaks
- If you have symptoms and cannot get access to timely PCR testing
- If you have recovered from COVID-19 within the last 90 days and you have a new COVID-19 exposure and/or develop new COVID-19 symptoms
- Rapid screening prior to a social gathering or activity when you are symptom-free (higher risk of false negative)
- Use after a close contact exposure to someone with COVID-19
|
Do not get a PCR test if you had COVID-19 within the past 90 days (the test may be intermittently positive even after you are no longer infectious).
Antigen at-home self-tests may not be not accepted:
- To meet travel testing requirements
- For entry to some establishments or events requiring proof of a negative test
- For healthcare facility workers (and trainees) in certain situations; check with your hospital or clinic’s employee health center.