Tuberculosis Testing

TB tests are required only for students who are identified as being at a higher risk. Please see pages 5 and 6 of the Medical Report Form to find out if you need a TB test.

MIT accepts:

• the Mantoux 5TU PPD skin test,
• the T-spot test, or
• the Quantiferon-Gold test.

MIT will not accept multiple puncture tests such as tine, HEAF, or Monovac.

The TB test reaction must be documented in millimeters and signed by a physician or nurse. The physician or nurse must read the reaction within 48 to 72 hours after the test is administered.

MIT will not accept a simple reading of “positive” or “negative.”

Yes. You still need a TB test if you are in the higher-risk group (see pages 5–6 of the Medical Report Form). 

If you have had a previous Mantoux TB test with a reaction of 10mm or greater, you must provide:

1. Proof of a negative chest X-ray taken after your positive Mantoux, T-Spot, or Quantiferon-Gold TB test, and
2. Documentation that you have no symptoms of tuberculosis.

No. You can only substitute a chest X-ray if you have had a previous Mantoux TB test that was positive with a reaction of 10mm or greater.