Pomona College
IN-1: Innovation 1

Need-Blind Admissions and No-Loan Guaranteed Financial Aid Pomona College is one of few institutions in the United States that is committed to both need-blind admissions and to awarding no-loan financial aid packages to meet 100 percent of the need of every enrolling student. This policy allows the College to take a large step forward in increasing diversity, access, and affordability, and allows the College to choose its students solely on the basis of educational considerations such as talent, promise, and ability to contribute to the campus community. In December 2007, the Pomona College Board of Trustees voted to eliminate loans from student financial aid packages, relieving student debt and increasing accessibility to qualified students from all socioeconomic backgrounds. The policy was enacted in the fall of 2008, and applies to all students receiving financial aid, with no maximum income. Because student debt can affect a student’s college experience and future career choices, the college has replaced all loans in financial aid packages so that students are able to leave the college without educational debt. Approximately 53 percent of Pomona students receive need-based financial aid, and over 70 percent either receive aid and/or take advantage of the College’s payment plan or parent loan programs. In 2009-10, the College expected to distribute approximately $27.5 million in need-based scholarship assistance.