Equity and Access

A Pomona College education encompasses—and values—many types of knowledge and learning. We are committed to actively connecting with, recruiting and welcoming every talented student, and to making a Pomona education accessible to a student body that reflects the communities, perspectives and experiences that shape our nation and our world.

Highlighted Initiatives

Access to Course Essentials

The Access to Course Essentials (ACE) initiative will provide all enrolled Pomona College students with the necessary course materials required for classes at no additional cost. Rather than students purchasing materials individually, required course materials will be provided at the start of each semester. The initiative will ensure that all students in Pomona College courses have equitable access to the tools they need to succeed.

Technology Access Program

The Technology Access Program (TAP) provides laptops to new students who can’t afford one, removing financial barriers that impact academic work and ensuring students have consistent access to reliable, academically capable technology. After graduating from the College, students can keep their laptop.

Student Health Insurance Program

All students are automatically enrolled in the Student Health Insurance Program (SHIP) every year. The College recognizes that the cost of coverage may cause financial hardship for some students and their families. For this reason, students who receive Pomona College financial aid will automatically be packaged with a Pomona Medical Grant to cover at least half of the cost of the health insurance and may request a loan to cover the second half. Through this strategic initiative, the College is working towards covering the full cost of health insurance for a higher proportion of students receiving financial aid. The College is also piloting a fully-paid-for dental insurance plan for students on financial aid, a new program that launched in fall 2026.

New Financial Aid for Middle-Income Students

The Middle-Income Initiative reflects Pomona College’s commitment to making a liberal arts education accessible to students from families across a wide range of economic circumstances. By increasing the overall financial aid budget, the College seeks to provide middle-income families with the support needed to cover the tuition and fees for four years at Pomona. A more economically diverse student body enhances the residential learning experience and fosters meaningful engagement among individuals with varied perspectives and life experiences.