Background Checks
Tufts University is committed to providing a safe working and learning environment for its employees, students, and visitors. The purpose of this communication is to remind the University community of the Background Check Policy and to provide information regarding the background check process.
How Do I Request a Background Check?
The process to request background checks involves the following steps:
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The manager submits a background check request by emailing HRBackgroundcheck@tufts.edu.
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Human Resources sends an electronic form to collect the necessary information for the individuals who will be subject to the background check.
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Human Resources determines what type(s) of background check is required or permitted based on the role.
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Sterling, our background check vendor, sends the individual(s) an invitation via email informing them that a background check will be conducted and provides a secure link where the employee/student/temporary worker/volunteer can provide protected information for purposes of completing the background check.
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If the background check indicates that the individual is suitable for assignment, Human Resources notifies the initiating manager.
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If, however, the background check returns a questionable result, the vendor will alert Human Resources and the individual will receive follow-up communications. If the individual does not dispute the finding, Human Resources will consult with the initiating manager to determine the individual’s suitability for the assignment.
Hiring Minors
When hiring a minor or intern under the age of 18, a request must be submitted here.
Prior to the minor's start date, consent forms will need to be completed by the minor and a parent/guardian. The supervisor of the minor will need to complete 51A training and a CORI if there is not one on file. Instructions will be provided once the request has been submitted.
Who Covers the Cost of Background Checks?
Human Resources covers the cost of background checks for positions or assignments related to the University’s core business.
What is included in a Background Check?
Different roles and responsibilities require different levels of screening. A background check may include:
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Social Security Identity Confirmation
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Education Verification
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Employment Verification
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Driver’s License Check (MVR)
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Credential Verification
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Credit Check
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Massachusetts Criminal Background Check
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United States Criminal Search
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United States Offender Search (Sexual Offender Database)
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International Criminal Search
How and When Should I Request this Service from Human Resources?
Background checks for staff hires are routinely conducted by Human Resources as part of the hiring process—no further action is required of the unit.
However, units that hire student workers, volunteers, temporary hires or make hires outside of the hiring process administered by Human Resources should contact Human Resources for required background checks at least fourteen business days before the individual’s start date or the start of the event. Please plan for additional processing time during peak times of the year or depending upon the type of background check that will be required. Additionally, units must request background checks for any staff, faculty, temporary worker, student or affiliate who will have unsupervised access to vulnerable populations. The Vulnerable Populations list can be viewed here. Anyone working with an identified vulnerable population will also be required to sign a Code of Conduct form. The Code of Conduct can be viewed here.
Will a CORI be included with the Background Checks?
Managers should notify HR if staff, faculty, student, temporary worker or affiliate will work directly with vulnerable populations.
Who Has Access to the Results of a Background Check?
Human Resources will contact the individual and the individual’s hiring manager if an issue is discovered during a background check which calls into question the appropriateness of the person for assignment. This information will only be shared with those who have a need to know the information to carry out their job responsibilities.
Where Can I Find the Tufts Policy on Background Checks?
The Background Check Policy is located in Employee Policies & Procedures. The Background Check Procedure is attached to this communication. Human Resources works in conjunction with the Office of University Council to maintain the policy and procedures regarding background checks.
Where Can I Find More Information?
If you have questions about how to request a background check or the process itself, please email HRBackgroundcheck@tufts.edu.
Provided by Human Resources