What are the requirements for regular decision at Pomona?

I'm considering applying to Pomona College and want to make sure I've got everything covered. What are the key requirements for applying regular decision there? I'd also like to know if there's anything specific Pomona looks for in their applicants.

To apply regular decision to Pomona College for the 2024-2025 application cycle, you will need the following:

- The Common Application or Coalition Application: You need to complete and submit either of these with all the required details about your educational background, activities, honors you've received, etc.

- School report and transcript: Your high school will need to send an official transcript, as well as a school report. The school report is usually done by your high school counselor and provides context about the curriculum and grading policies at your school.

- Letters of recommendation: You will need two recommendations from teachers in different academic subjects, as well as one from your school counselor if available.

- Mid-Year Report: You will need to submit an update in February with your grades from the first semester or trimester of your senior year.

- $80 application fee: Unless you qualify for a fee waiver, you'll need to pay this fee when you submit your application.

Pomona College takes a holistic approach to admissions so, in addition to your GPA and course difficulty, they'll look at your extracurricular activities, recommendation letters, and essays. They're interested in students who have shown a commitment to academics but also engaged meaningfully in one or more activities outside of class. Your essays will be your opportunity to tell your personal story and show what unique perspective you would bring to Pomona.

They highly value intellectual curiosity, so using your essays to show your desire for learning, growth, and engagement with the world around you could make your application stand out. The supplement specifically asks about your interest in Pomona, so make sure to do your research and demonstrate both your understanding of and fit with the college's academic philosophy, campus culture, and resources.

Note that Pomona College has adopted a test-optional policy for the 2024-2025 cycle so, sending SAT or ACT scores are optional however if you feel that they reflect your academic abilities and you have the resources to take them, you could consider sending them.

Additionally, while they do not require an interview, they encourage it as it offers another chance for you to share your story in a less formal setting and ask any questions you may have about Pomona.

Lastly, keep track of the pertinent dates. Pomona’s regular decision deadline is generally in early January, and decisions are released by late March. Remember to double-check these dates closer to when you begin your application since they can vary slightly from year to year.