Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for targeting antigen to antigen presenting cells through specific endocytic receptors, which results in persistent antigen presentation in the context of MHC molecules. Such highly efficient antigen presentation results in robust and long lasting immune responses, in particular cell mediated responses. The invention provides for immune compositions containing antibodies to DEC-205 in combination with the antigen for eliciting either T cell mediated immunity when delivered with a dendritic cell maturation factor, or for inducing tolerance when delivered in the absence of a dendritic cell maturation factor. The compositions described in the present invention are effective as a single dose at low concentrations and show efficacy even with non-replicating subunit vaccines.