Pomona essay prompts
2026-27verified Pomona College admissions
These are the most recent published prompts. Final 2026-27 supplements typically land by early August.
Academic Interest / Why Major
What draws you to the subject(s) you selected as potential major(s)? If undecided, share more about one of your academic passions or interests.
150 words max · Required
Out-of-Classroom Experience (Option B)
Pomona is home to a diverse community of faculty, staff and students who, through close ties and collaboration, enable each other to identify and explore their greatest passions. Considering this, respond to one of the following: Describe an experience you had outside the classroom that changed the way you think and/or how you engage with your peers.
250 words max · Required
Community / Values
Pomona College defines itself as a place where people are encouraged to ‘think boldly’ and ‘engage’ with each other and the world—especially across differences. Describe a specific conversation, experience, or moment that shaped how you engage with ideas, people, or communities different from your own.
250 words max · Required
Why Pomona (Item)
What item are you excited to bring with you to Pomona? How does it connect to what you’re looking forward to in college?
150 words max · Required
Open topic
Please briefly elaborate on one of your extracurricular activities, a personal experience, or a summer activity.
150 words max · Required
About the application
Applies via the Common App.
Make your next draft count.
Common questions
- What are the Pomona essay prompts for 2026-27?
- Pomona lists Academic Interest / Why Major (1 prompt); Out-of-Classroom Experience (Option B) (1 prompt); Community / Values (1 prompt); Why Pomona (Item) (1 prompt); Open topic (1 prompt) for 2026-27.
- How many essays does Pomona require?
- Pomona requires 5 essays based on the published group instructions for 2026-27. The page lists 5 required and 0 optional prompts.
- What are the word limits for the Pomona supplemental essays?
- The published word and character limits are 150 words max, 250 words max.