Information for QuestBridge Non-Finalists

QuestBridge Non-Finalists are students who applied to the National College Match and did not meet QuestBridge's financial and/or academic criteria based on a holistic review of their achievement, personal qualities, and financial circumstances. Students who are Non-Finalists for the College Match process can apply to Pomona College through Early Decision I, Early Decision II, or Regular Decision. 

Pomona College is one of a handful of institutions that practices need-blind admissions and provides 100% need-based financial aid to all admitted students. We actively encourage all qualified applicants to consider Pomona, regardless of whether they can afford the full cost of attending. Visit the Financial Aid page to learn more.

Applying Early Decision

QuestBridge Non-Finalists for whom Pomona is the clear first choice are strongly encouraged to apply under the Early Decision option. This may allow students to resolve their college choice earlier in their senior year and to avoid the necessity of filing multiple applications. Please keep in mind that Early Decision is a binding commitment, and students may submit an early-decision application to only one institution. Students admitted under Early Decision are expected to withdraw all other college applications and to initiate no new ones.  

• Early Decision I: Application materials due November 15
• Early Decision II: Application materials due January 8

Early Decision Application Materials

1. Pomona Program Selection Form for QuestBridge Applicants, which waives the application fee automatically upon submission. The Early Decision Agreement at the bottom of the form must be completed before submission.
2. Official high school transcript(s) mailed or emailed directly by your counselor to questbridge@pomona.edu with the subject line: Non-Finalist, Full Legal Name, Official Transcript. Please check your Pomona application portal to verify we have received your official transcript.
3. For first-year and transfer applicants for admission for Fall 2024 entry, Pomona College has adopted a test-optional policy. This policy means SAT or ACT scores are not required for applicants for first-year admission, but students may choose to self-report them in their Pomona applicant portal after submitting their applications.

Applying Regular Decision

QuestBridge Non-Finalists who wish to keep their options open regarding their college choice should apply as Regular Decision candidates for admission. The majority of Pomona applicants choose this option. Regular Decision applicants must apply by January 8, and those who are admitted to the College have until May 1 to accept or decline admission. Please consult our application deadlines page for the exact submission and notification dates.

• Regular Decision: Application materials due January 8

Regular Decision Application Materials

1. Pomona Program Selection Form for QuestBridge Applicants, which waives the application fee automatically upon submission.
2. Official high school transcript(s) mailed or emailed directly by your counselor to questbridge@pomona.edu with the subject line: Non-Finalist, Full Legal Name, Official Transcript. Please check your Pomona applicant portal to verify that we have received your official transcript.
3. For first-year and transfer applicants for admission for Fall 2024 entry, Pomona College has adopted a test-optional policy. This policy means SAT or ACT scores are not required for applicants for first-year admission, but students may choose to self-report them in their Pomona applicant portal after submitting their applications.

If you have any questions about applying to Pomona College through the QuestBridge application, please do not hesitate to contact us at questbridge@pomona.edu.