Admission to Pitzer

Instructions to Applicants

In keeping with its commitment to the individual, Pitzer College has developed a highly personalized approach to the selective admission process. The Admission Committee will review your application to determine your academic preparation, your commitment to extracurricular activities and your potential fit with the Pitzer community.

Your application should demonstrate the ways in which you feel you will benefit from, contribute to, and be challenged by Pitzer’s unique approach to undergraduate education. We are looking for students who exhibit strong academic abilities, maturity, and socially conscious independence. Because different people show and use their strengths in different ways, the Admission Committee does not expect essays to be answered in the same way, nor do we expect students who will benefit from Pitzer to have the same background, the same course work or the same culture.

Pitzer College adheres to the letter and spirit of the Statement of Principles of Good Practice of the National Association for College Admissions Counseling. Pitzer admits students of any race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, age, creed, handicap and national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the college. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, sex, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, handicap or national or ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, scholarships and loan programs, athletic and other college-administered programs or employment policies.

Campus Visits and Interviews

We strongly recommend that you engage with the admission office through on and off campus information sessions and student-led tours. Reservations for an information session or tour can be made online.

In addition to information sessions, we hope you will be able to schedule an interview with us. We offer four ways to complete an interview: 1) on-campus interview, 2) Zoom, 3) phone interview, and 4) alumni interview. All four options carry the same weight. Please note that November 15 is the last day for interviews for Early Decision I candidates and December 15 for Early Decision II and Regular Decision candidates.

First-Year Admission

High School Preparation

Your best preparation for success at Pitzer is the completion of a rigorous college preparatory program. Academic challenge is important and you should maintain a rigorous course schedule through your senior year. Your studies should include four years of English (especially courses that emphasize writing), at least three years each of foreign language, mathematics and social, behavioral and natural sciences. We strongly recommend that you take advantage of honors and advanced placement courses offered at your school.

Application Process

Pitzer’s admission policy for first-year students provides applicants with greater flexibility in presenting application materials that accurately reflect their diverse academic abilities and potentials. The College is completely test-optional, providing students the opportunity to present application materials that accurately reflect their diverse academic talents and potential. Students can submit either the SAT or the ACT if they feel like their results best-represent their academic potential.  The admission committee makes no assumptions as to why some students choose to submit scores while others don’t.  All students are given equal consideration in the admission process.

Application Forms

Pitzer College is an exclusive user of the Common Application for first-year applicants. The application can be accessed at www.commonapp.org.  All application material must be submitted by the appropriate deadline.

Application Deadlines

There are three options for applying to Pitzer: Early Decision I by November 15, Early Decision II by January 1, and Regular Decision by January 1.

Early Decision

Students who have thoughtfully determined that Pitzer College is their first choice and who have superior academic records are invited to apply as Early Decision applicants. Early Decision is a binding agreement whereby applicants agree that if they are admitted to Pitzer, they will withdraw all other applications and not initiate new ones. In addition, applicants agree not to apply Early Decision to any other institution while applying Early Decision to Pitzer.

Early Decision I applicants must submit all required materials by November 15, which is also the deadline for optional interviews. Early Decision II applicants must submit all required materials by January 1, which is also the deadline for optional interviews. We will notify Early Decision I applicants of admission decisions by late December and Early Decision II applicants will be notified of admission decisions by February 15.

Regular Decision

Applicants for Regular Decision must submit all required application materials by January 1. Interviews for Regular Decision students are optional. Interviews must be completed by December 15.  Notification letters will be sent by April 1.

Application Fee

A $70 application fee or completed Common Application fee waiver required with each application. This fee is not refundable.

Deferring Entrance

Once admitted, students may be considered for deferral for a year to pursue non-academic goals. To hold a place, students must submit the commitment fee by May 1. A letter explaining your gap year plans and requesting deferred entrance is also required.

Transfer Admission

We welcome transfer applicants from two- and four-year colleges. To be considered for transfer admission, candidates must have completed one or more semesters or two or more quarters of college credit prior to the application deadline. Applicants who have completed at least 32 semester units or 48 quarter units in academic subjects may be reviewed without high school transcripts. Standardized tests are not required from transfer applicants.

In assessing transfer candidates, the Admission Committee will pay particular attention to work done in college courses. Transfer students should complete any first-year writing courses required at their current institution prior to enrollment at Pitzer. Matriculated transfer students must complete at least two years of study at Pitzer in order to earn a Pitzer College degree. Students who wish to transfer from two-year colleges may do so before they have completed their A.A. degrees. However, we strongly suggest that prospective transfer students take courses from a broad range of subjects including the humanities, math, social science and science. Pitzer recommends that California community college students complete courses within the Inter-Segmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC). Information regarding the IGETC course series can be obtained from the counseling center at your community college.

Interviews for transfer students are not required, but are recommended. Interviews must be completed by the admission deadlines.

Transfer applicants with coursework from higher education institutions outside of the United States must provide a report from a credentials evaluation service in order to receive an evaluation of credit transferable to Pitzer.  The following organizations may be used:

• International Education Research Foundation
• World Education Services

Application Forms

Pitzer College accepts the Common Application as its only application for admission for transfer students. All sections are required. Due to the high volume of applications that we receive, we are not always able to send reminders regarding which pieces of your application have been received or not. Therefore, it is your responsibility to ensure that your application is completed by the appropriate deadline. You must also submit transcripts of all colleges/universities attended. If you have completed less than 32 semester units or 48 quarter units, you are required to submit your high school transcript, or GED scores.

Application Deadline

To be considered for fall semester, transfer applicants must submit all required application materials by April 1. Notification letters will be sent by May 15 and commitment fees are due by June 15. For spring semester, you must submit all required application materials by October 10th. Notification letters will be sent by November 13 and commitment fees are due by December 10.

Application Fee

A $70 application fee or completed Common Application fee waiver required with each application. This fee is not refundable.

New Resources Admission

The application process for the New Resources program mirrors the transfer process and uses the same forms. Students must send transcripts of all college work completed; submit two references from people who can attest to their skills, motivation and readiness for college-level work. The New Resources program is only open to students who are least 23 years of age and only enrolls students for the fall semester. New Resources candidates are strongly encouraged to provide recent academic records for a more accurate admission assessment.  Coursework that reflects a liberal arts curriculum and/or work that fulfills requirements for an Associates of Arts or Science, would be most appropriate. 

Application Deadline

To be considered for fall semester you must submit all required materials by April 1. Notification letters will be sent by May 15 and commitment fees are due by June 15.

Application Fee

A $70 application fee or a request for fee waiver is required with each application. This fee is not refundable.

International Students

Pitzer College is committed to the goals of international education and welcomes applications from international students.  International students use the same application as domestic students. In addition to the other required credentials, international students may need to demonstrate English proficiency by submitting their results from either the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). We require the IELTS or TOEFL from students whose native language is not English.

A minimum score of 7 on the IELTS or 100 IBT on the TOEFL is required for regular admission. Students who are qualified for admission to Pitzer in all ways except English proficiency and who have achieved an IELTS score of at least 6.5 or a TOEFL score of at least 70 IBT are eligible for the Pitzer International Scholars Program. You can learn more about the ISP program at www.pitzer.edu/admission/ischolars.

Pitzer College is authorized under federal law to enroll non-immigrant students and will issue a Certificate of Eligibility (Form I-20) to all accepted students. Federal law requires that all international students present proof to the College and to the consular officer to whom they apply for a visa that they have sufficient funds to pay the full cost of their education in the United States. Pitzer College offers financial aid to international applicants who require financial assistance in order to attend.  Because limited financial resources are available, Pitzer will only be able to offer financial aid to a small group of international students.  All international applications who would like to be considered for financial aid must indicate on the Common Application that they are seeking financial aid. Regardless of whether they are seeking financial aid, international students must submit the International Student Certification of Finances to the Office of Admission.  In addition, international students must complete the CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE online by the published deadlines.

Admission and Financial Aid Calendar

Deadline for Early Decision 1 applicants to submit their admission and financial aid applications.  Students applying for financial aid must submit the FAFSA, PROFILE and tax statements.

College Fees

Comprehensive Fees for Students $ 73,450

This fee covers tuition fees, room and board for the year (Fall/Spring), as well as various activities and events available to Pitzer students at no charge. It does not include the cost for books, supplies, travel, a single room, or room and board during vacation periods. This comprehensive fee contains the following charges.

Payment Schedules

College bills are payable in advance according to the schedules specified below. All checks should be made payable to Pitzer College.

Miscellaneous Fees include, but are not limited to, the following:

Personal & Other Miscellaneous Expenses

Books, supplies, and personal expenses will vary from student to student. For full-time students, the typical amount is about $2,400; $1,300 for books and supplies and $1,100 for personal expenses. Note: Travel expenses & medical insurance are not included.

College Bills

All College bills are due each semester in advance and must be paid by August 20, 2019 for the Fall semester and January 20, 2020 for the Spring semester.  Bills not paid by these dates are delinquent.  We accept checks, cash, money order or electronic payments.  Students wishing to pay by installments may do so by enrolling in the Pitzer College Payment Plan.

Delinquent Accounts

No student whose account is not current will be permitted to enroll. Seniors must settle all college bills by April 30^th.

If an account with a Pitzer College Payment Plan is terminated because of delinquency, that balance of the account becomes due and payable immediately to the College.

A cashier’s check or money order is required to pay a delinquent account for a student no longer enrolled at Pitzer College. A student’s account is due in full within thirty (30) days after leaving the College. If the account is not paid or arrangements made to pay, the account will be referred to a collection agency. If the College assigns an overdue account for collection, the College retains the right to withhold the transcript until payment is made on the full amount due, whether payment is made to a collection agency or to the College. Any previous semester and all new semester charges will be due and payable in full at the beginning of the semester by cashier’s check or money order only.

Returned Payments

If a check or electronic payment (ACH) submitted for an account is returned unpaid, a $25 returned item fee is assessed. The account becomes delinquent if payment by cashier’s check, cash or money order is not received within ten (10) days of notification of check return.   If payment is not received by the tenth (10th) day, an additional $50 late fee will be assessed. If more than one payment in a semester is returned, payment of the account balance must then be made by cashier’s check or money order.

Tuition Refund Policies

Formal Withdrawal or Leave of Absence (LOA)

Students who officially withdraw or take a leave of absence before the first day of classes are eligible for a 100% refund. Students who officially withdraw or take a leave of absence on or after the first day of classes during the semester may be eligible for a pro-rata refund, depending upon the time of the withdrawal or leave. Students must give written notification to the Registrar of their decision to withdraw or take a leave of absence and complete the withdrawal or leave of absence procedures in order to be eligible for any adjustment of charges.

Tuition, room and board charges, scholarships, grants and loans will be prorated based on the number of days a student is registered at Pitzer College, up to the sixty percent point of the semester.

It is recommended that students consult with the Student Accounts Office and Financial Aid Office (if receiving financial aid) prior to leaving Pitzer College.

For students enrolled during the Summer, please consult the Summer Session Academic Calendar for specific drop dates and tuition refund percentages as the policies vary from the traditional academic year.

** Note that if students have already received a credit balance refund from Pitzer College before withdrawal or LOA, the refund calculation may require students to reimburse Pitzer College for all or part of the original credit balance refund.

Enrollment Status Change

Students whose status changes from full-time (three or more course credits) to part-time (fewer than three course credits) enrollment status, during the first ten class days of the semester, will be refunded the full difference between the two costs. No adjustments will be made after the 10^th day of the semester, unless a student officially withdrawals from the College or takes a leave of absence.

Readmission to Pitzer

If a student wishes to return to Pitzer after being withdrawn from the college, they will need to apply for readmission during the specified application periods. The deadlines are October 10^th for spring admission and April 1^st for fall admission. A Readmission Application is available online on the Admission website. Along with the evaluation by the Admission office, Admissions consults independently with the Academic Standards Committee (ASC) and the Office of Student Affairs (OSA) to determine if the student is eligible to return to Pitzer College. In order to return, students must be in good academic, disciplinary, and financial standing. If readmitted, the Academic Standards Committee or Office of Student Affairs may define the probationary terms under which the student may continue enrollment. Students who fail to meet the terms of probation following readmission normally will be dismissed from the College.

Financial Aid

Pitzer College’s financial aid program supports the goals of the admission program: to bring a diverse and qualified student body to campus. During the 2019-20 academic year, approximately 44% of the Pitzer students received some form of financial assistance.

Financial aid at Pitzer College is need-based and provides assistance to students whose family financial resources cannot meet Pitzer’s cost of attendance. To be eligible for financial aid from the College, a student must be admitted to or regularly enrolled in a program leading to a Pitzer degree. The student must not owe a refund on a grant or loan received for attendance at another institution. The student must also submit the appropriate financial aid applications, apply on their own for any state aid for which they may be eligible, and provide all required information by the published deadlines. Students seeking a second bachelor’s degree are not eligible for institutional aid from Pitzer College, but may be eligible for federal loans.

The financial aid information listed in this catalog applies to polices that were in place for the 2020-2021 academic year. Policies are subject to change year to year. Please contact the Office of Financial Aid if you have questions about any specific policy.

Costs

The basic budget for an on-campus student for the 2020-21 academic year listed below does not include the cost of travel to the campus.

The room & board budget for fall 2020 is based on living at home with family. This budget takes into account the family’s increased food and utility expenses for having the student at home. The spring room & board budget is based on living in the residence halls with a 16-meal plan.

Books and personal expenses are estimates and your actual costs will vary. The travel budget is an estimate and your actual travel costs will vary depending on the mode of transportation and the frequency of your trips to and from Pitzer.

Medical insurance is not included in the budget and is often an additional cost. Students may request to borrow educational loans to assist with this expense.

Financial aid does not cover any P.E. course fees, vehicle registration fees or any other miscellaneous fees not included in the budget listed above.

How to Apply

Pitzer meets 100% of demonstrated need for all students who apply for financial aid by established deadlines, meet eligibility requirements and demonstrate financial need.

First Year Applicants

All first-year applicants seeking need-based financial aid are required to complete the CSS Profile to apply for institutional financial aid and the FAFSA to apply for federal and state aid (U.S. Citizens and Eligible Non-Citizens only), as well as submit supporting tax documents. Students must list Pitzer as a recipient institution on both forms in order for the school to receive the application information. Applicants can submit the CSS Profile online at collegeboard.com using Pitzer’s school code, 4619. Applicants can submit the FAFSA online at fafsa.gov using Pitzer’s federal school code, 001172.

If a dependent student’s parents are divorced, separated or living apart, the parent who the student lived with most (more than fifty percent during the last twelve months) should complete the CSS Profile and FAFSA (if applicable). The student’s other parent does not need to complete the FAFSA, but must submit their own CSS Profile application. Pitzer requires both parents to participate in the financial aid application process and submit their information on the CSS Profile.

First-year applicants receive financial aid eligibility letters at the same time as their admission decision. Refer to the Admission and Financial Aid Calendar section of this catalog for appropriate dates.

Domestic Dependent Students: Must submit 2017 federal income tax returns, including all schedules, statements, W-2/1099 forms and business returns for themselves and their parents. Students who are selected for federal verification through the FAFSA may be required to provide additional documentation.

International Dependent Students: Must submit a copy of 2017 income documents, including wage statements from each employer, for themselves and their parents. All tax documents must be translated and all currency converted to U.S. dollars by a third party, not the student or parent. The Office of Financial Aid must be able to verify application information using supplied tax documents.

Application Deadlines

Transfer Applicants

All transfer applicants seeking need-based financial aid are required to complete the CSS Profile to apply for institutional financial aid and the FAFSA to apply for federal and state aid (U.S. Citizens and Eligible Non-Citizens only), as well as submit supporting tax documents. Students must list Pitzer as a recipient institution on both forms in order for the school to receive the application information. Applicants must submit the CSS Profile online at collegeboard.com using Pitzer’s school code, 4619. Applicants must submit the FAFSA online at fafsa.gov using Pitzer’s federal school code, 001172.

If a dependent student’s parents are divorced, separated or living apart, the parent who the student lived with most (more than fifty percent during the last twelve months) should complete the CSS Profile and FAFSA (if applicable). The student’s other parent does not need to complete the FAFSA, but must submit their own CSS Profile application. Pitzer requires both parents to participate in the financial aid application process and submit their information on the CSS Profile.

Transfer applicants receive financial aid eligibility letters at the same time as their admission decision. Refer to the Admission and Financial Aid Calendar section of this catalog for appropriate dates.

Domestic Dependent Students: Must submit 2017 federal income tax returns, including all schedules, statements, W-2/1099 forms and business returns for themselves and their parents. Students who are selected for federal verification through the FAFSA may be required to provide additional documentation.

International Dependent Students: Must submit a copy of 2017 income documents, including wage statements from each employer, for themselves and their parents. All tax documents must be translated and all currency converted to U.S. dollars by a third party, not the student or parent. The Office of Financial Aid must be able to verify application information using supplied tax documents.

Application Deadlines

New Resources Applicants

All New Resources applicants seeking need-based financial aid are required to complete the CSS Profile to apply for institutional financial aid and the FAFSA to apply for federal and state aid (U.S. Citizens and Eligible Non-Citizens only), as well as submit supporting tax documents. Students must list Pitzer as a recipient institution on both forms in order for the school to receive the application information. Applicants can submit the CSS Profile online at collegeboard.com using Pitzer’s school code, 4619. Applicants must submit the FAFSA online at fafsa.gov using Pitzer’s federal school code, 001172.

New Resources applicants receive financial aid eligibility letters at the same time as their admission decision. Refer to the Admission and Financial Aid Calendar section of this catalog for appropriate dates.

Domestic Independent Students: Must submit 2017 federal income tax returns, including all schedules, statements, W-2/1099 forms and business returns for themselves and their spouse (if applicable). Students who are selected for federal verification through the FAFSA may be required to provide additional documentation.

International Independent Students: Must submit a copy of 2017 income documents, including wage statements from each employer, for themselves and their spouse (if applicable). All tax documents must be translated and all currency converted to U.S. dollars by a third party, not the student. The Office of Financial Aid must be able to verify application information using supplied tax documents.

Application Deadlines

Readmitted Students

Students who apply for readmission are required to complete the CSS Profile to apply for institutional financial aid and the FAFSA to apply for federal and state aid (U.S. Citizens and Eligible Non-Citizens only), as well as submit supporting tax documents. Students who are selected for federal verification through the FAFSA may be required to provide additional documentation. Students must list Pitzer as a recipient institution on both forms in order for the school to receive the application information. Applicants can submit the CSS Profile online at collegeboard.com using Pitzer’s school code, 4619. Applicants can submit the FAFSA online at fafsa.gov using Pitzer’s federal school code, 001172.

Readmitted students who submit all application requirements by the published deadlines receive financial aid eligibility letters at the same time as their admission decision.

Domestic Dependent Students: Must submit 2017 federal income tax returns, including all schedules, statements, W-2/1099 forms and business returns for themselves and their parents.

Domestic Independent Students: Must submit 2017 federal income tax returns, including all schedules, statements, W-2/1099 forms and business returns for themselves and their spouse (if applicable).

International Dependent Students: Must submit a copy of 2017 income documents, including wage statements from each employer, for themselves and their parents. All tax documents must be translated and all currency converted to U.S. dollars by a third party, not the student or parent. The Office of Financial Aid must be able to verify application information using supplied tax documents.

International Independent Students: Must submit a copy of 2017 income documents, including wage statements from each employer, for themselves and their spouse (if applicable). All tax documents must be translated and all currency converted to U.S. dollars by a third party, not the student or parent. The Office of Financial Aid must be able to verify application information using supplied tax documents.

Academic Standing:

Readmitted students must meet Satisfactory Academic Progress standards to be eligible for federal, state and institutional financial aid. The Office of Financial Aid will review SAP upon the student’s request for readmission.

Students, who were not meeting SAP requirements, were on Financial Aid Warning or were Financial Aid Ineligible during their last semester of attendance at Pitzer should contact the Office of Financial Aid to discuss their academic standing and eligibility for future financial assistance.

Refer to the SAP section of this catalog for complete SAP requirements.

Application Deadlines

Returning Students

Current students reapplying for financial aid or applying for the first time are required to complete the CSS Profile to apply for institutional financial aid and the FAFSA to apply for federal aid (U.S. Citizens and Eligible Non-Citizens only), as well as submit supporting tax documents. Students who are selected for federal verification through the FAFSA may be required to provide additional documentation. Students must list Pitzer as a recipient institution on both forms in order for the school to receive the application information. Applicants can submit the CSS Profile online at collegeboard.com using Pitzer’s school code, 4619. Applicants can submit the FAFSA online at fafsa.gov using Pitzer’s federal school code, 001172.

Returning students who submit all application requirements by the published deadlines receive financial aid eligibility letters by the end of July. Students who submit their information late will receive eligibility letters throughout the summer.

Domestic Dependent Students: Must submit 2017 federal income tax returns, including all schedules, statements, W-2/1099 forms and business returns for themselves and their parents.

Domestic Independent Students: Must submit 2017 federal income tax returns, including all schedules, statements, W-2/1099 forms and business returns for themselves and their spouse (if applicable).

International Dependent Students: Must submit a copy of 2017 income documents, including wage statements from each employer, for themselves and their parents. All tax documents must be translated and all currency converted to U.S. dollars by a third party, not the student or parent. The Office of Financial Aid must be able to verify application information using supplied tax documents.

International Independent Students: Must submit a copy of 2017 income documents, including wage statements from each employer, for themselves and their spouse (if applicable). All tax documents must be translated and all currency converted to U.S. dollars by a third party, not the student or parent. The Office of Financial Aid must be able to verify application information using supplied tax documents.

Application Deadlines

How Need is Determined

Using the information provided on the FAFSA and the CSS Profile, the Office of Financial Aid will determine what the family is expected to contribute toward the student’s cost of education. The calculation of the family contribution takes into consideration the family’s income, assets, taxes paid, standard living costs, family size and the number of children enrolled in undergraduate college programs, as well as other circumstances unique to the family.

In addition, each student is expected to use a portion of their accumulated savings or summer earnings in order to contribute approximately toward educational expenses. Each student has an automatic earnings contribution ranging from $900 - $1,850 based on their year at Pitzer.

The student’s financial need is calculated by subtracting the parent and student contributions from the total cost of attendance, which includes tuition, fees, room, board and allowances for books, personal expenses and transportation.

Renewing Financial Aid

Need-based aid is not automatically renewed. Students are responsible for reapplying each year by submitting the FAFSA, CSS Profile and supplemental tax documents by the published deadlines.

The Office of Financial Aid reviews financial need annually. Students may see changes to their need-based financial aid if there are changes in the family’s income, assets, household size, or number of dependent children in college. To be eligible for financial aid renewal, a student must be eligible to re-enroll as determined by the College’s Academic Standards Committee and must be making Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) as defined in this catalog.

Sources and Types of Financial Aid

Financial aid funds at Pitzer are derived from three sources: institutional, state and federal funds. A student’s eligibility for federal funds is determined by the information provided on the FAFSA. The amount of federal and state funds awarded to a student depends on specific program funding.

Aid Disbursements

All scholarship and loan funds are credited to the student’s account and are divided equally between the first and second semester. Employment funds are paid directly to the student by check or direct deposit. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that charges on the student’s account are paid.

Need-Based Aid

• Pitzer Scholarship: Each year, the Board of Trustees allocates a portion of the total budget to be used for Pitzer Scholarships. These scholarships are based solely on financial need and are administered by the Office of Financial Aid. The FAFSA, CSS Profile, and tax documents are required to be considered for need-based Pitzer Scholarship funds.

• Cal Grant: The California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) offers the Cal Grant program to California residents who attend a California college/university. All California residents applying for financial aid must apply for the Cal Grant by completing the FAFSA and submitting a GPA Verification Form through their high school by March 2. CSAC offers two Cal Grant programs available to Pitzer students, Cal Grant A and Cal Grant B.

The Cal Grant A maximum award for the 2019-20 academic year is $9,084. A student enrolled less than full-time will receive a prorated amount of Cal Grant A funding.

The Cal Grant B is aimed at high-potential students from low-income/disadvantaged backgrounds. The Cal Grant B has two components: tuition grant and living allowance. A living allowance of $1,672 for the 2019-20 academic year is awarded to assist with books and supplies. Second-, third- and fourth-year students receive a living allowance and a tuition grant. The tuition grant mirrors the value of the Cal Grant A; the amount for the 2019-20 academic year is $9,084. Students who are eligible for the Cal Grant B may complete an Access Authorization form to allow Pitzer to apply the living allowance to charges on the student’s account. Student authorization is voluntary and is valid for the duration of enrollment at Pitzer. A student may cancel the authorization of payment at any time up until the time the funds are disbursed to the student’s account.

• Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants: These federal awards range from $200 to $4,000 at Pitzer and are awarded to Pell eligible students with exceptional financial need. The Office of Financial Aid administers these awards through funds from the federal government.

• Federal Pell Grant: These awards are administered by the U.S. Department of Education (ED) through participating institutions and provide assistance to students with high need. For the 2019-20 academic year, the maximum award is $6,195 for a full-time student. The award amount is based on a determination of the student’s federal eligibility, the cost of attending Pitzer and a payment schedule issued to all approved educational institutions by ED.

Merit-Based Aid

Pitzer College offers two merit-based scholarships. The Office of Admission awards merit scholarships at the time of admission. These awards are not re-assessed or re-awarded at any later point.

• Trustee Scholarship: The Trustee Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship awarded to first-year students at the time of admission. This scholarship is $5,000 annually and is renewable for up to four years. To be eligible for renewal, the student must be in good academic standing, enrolled at least half time and making satisfactory academic progress. Recipients must maintain a 2.0 cumulative GPA to renew this scholarship.
• Academic Achievement Scholarship: The Academic Achievement Scholarship is a one-time merit scholarship awarded to a first-time, first-year student at the time of admission. The Achievement Scholarship is not renewable and the amount of the award varies from year-to-year based on available funding.

Outside Aid

If a student receives financial assistance from a source other than Pitzer, the student must notify the Office of Financial Aid in writing. An adjustment may be made to the student’s Pitzer financial aid award to incorporate the outside funds and ensure that the total amount of aid does not exceed the student’s financial need. It is Pitzer’s policy to reduce the student’s summer earnings contribution first, followed by their need-based loan, followed by work. If the outside aid exceeds the student’s summer contribution, loan and work, the Pitzer Scholarship is then reduced. Outside awards cannot replace or reduce the parent’s contribution.

Student Employment

Pitzer College participates in the Federal Work-Study program. Awards are made to students based on financial need and available funding. Under this program, students work at Pitzer or for an approved employer within the Consortium. Off-campus jobs are available at public and private nonprofit organizations and community service work is strongly encouraged. International students who have been awarded an Institutional Work Study award may work on campus after they have applied for a Social Security number. Please contact Todd Sasaki in Study Abroad and International Programs for assistance.

Student Loans

Loans enable students to invest some of their future earnings in their education. The average federal loan indebtedness of students who began their enrollment at Pitzer as first-year students and graduated in May 2018 was approximately $17,848.

All students who borrow a loan while at Pitzer are required to attend an Exit Interview before leaving the College. This is a requirement for graduating students and for students who take a leave of absence or withdraw. Exit Interview sessions are scheduled each spring; individual appointments may also be made if the student is leaving the College at the end of the fall semester.

• William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan: The Federal Direct Loan program provides both subsidized and unsubsidized loans to students. Students who demonstrate financial need may qualify for a subsidized loan. Subsidized loans do not accrue interest while the student is enrolled. Students who do not qualify for a subsidized loan may qualify for an unsubsidized loan, which will accrue interest while the student is enrolled in school. Repayment of the principal for both subsidized and unsubsidized loans begins six months after the student ceases to be enrolled at least half-time. During the 2019-20 academic year, the interest rate for subsidized and unsubsidized Federal Direct Loans is 4.53%. All Federal Direct Loans are subject to an origination fee. For loans disbursed prior to October 1, 2019, the origination fee is 1.062%. For loans disbursed on or after October 1, 2019, the origination fee is 1.059%.

Annual loan limits for dependent students are:

Total Federal Direct Loan indebtedness for dependent undergraduate students may not exceed $31,000.

Dependent students whose parents apply for and are denied a Federal Direct Parent PLUS Loan may be eligible to borrow an additional Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan. First- and second-year students may borrow an additional $4,000 and third- and fourth-year students may borrow an additional $5,000 per year.

Annual loan limits for independent students and dependent students whose parent is denied a PLUS Loan are:

Total Federal Direct Loan indebtedness for independent students or dependent students whose parent is denied a PLUS Loan may not exceed $57,500.

• Pitzer College Loans: Pitzer College offers a limited number of Pitzer College Loans to assist students with the cost of medical insurance and unexpected extenuating expenses. The Office of Financial Aid awards these loans to students who meet eligibility criteria.
• Emergency Student Loan Fund: Short-term, no-interest emergency student loans are available to students faced with unexpected emergencies. Traditional undergraduate students may borrow up to $500 for 30 days if they are able to verify their ability to repay the loan. Students admitted through the New Resources program may borrow up to $1,000 per semester for 30 days if they are able to verify their ability to repay the loan.

Students who need an emergency student loan should contact the Office of Financial Aid. A student does not have to be a financial aid recipient to qualify for an emergency student loan. The funds that make these loans possible represent Pitzer College’s portion of a gift to the Independent Colleges of Southern California made by First Interstate Bank of California.

Parent Loans

• Federal Direct PLUS Loans: The Federal Direct PLUS Loan permits parents to borrow up to the full cost of attendance minus any financial aid the student receives, each year. Federal Direct PLUS Loan borrowers do not have to demonstrate financial need, but must file a FAFSA application and pass a credit check. Repayment of the principal and interest normally begins within 60 days of disbursement. Deferments of payments while the student is enrolled are available; however, interest continues to accrue. The interest rate for the 2019-20 academic year is 7.08%. The PLUS Loan is subject to an origination fee. For loans disbursed prior to October 1, 2019, the origination fee is 4.248%. For loans disbursed on or after October 1, 2019, the origination fee is 4.236%.

Summer

Summer Session

Pitzer College offers a six-week summer session for students who want to enrich their education in a rigorous academic atmosphere. Financial aid is available to students who received need-based financial aid during the academic year preceding the summer session. Students may be eligible for financial aid to assist with tuition for up to two courses during the summer; students who enroll in more than two courses will be responsible for the additional tuition costs for those classes. Room and board costs are not covered by financial aid; however, students who meet eligibility requirements may borrow educational loans to assist with living expenses.

Criteria to determine financial aid eligibility is determined in the spring semester prior to the summer session registration. Please contact the Office of Financial Aid if you have questions about aid eligibility for summer session. Financial Aid is not available for independent study courses during the summer term.

During the summer, Pitzer does not have a consortium agreement in place with the other Claremont Colleges. As a result, financial aid is only available to Pitzer students who enroll in classes at Pitzer College. Financial aid is not available for summer courses taken at the other Claremont Colleges.

Students who seek financial aid for the summer session must submit an application. The summer session application and due dates will be posted on the Financial Aid Website during the spring semester.

Summer Study Abroad

Pitzer College offers summer study abroad programs. Financial aid recipients who enroll in these programs and meet eligibility requirements may receive financial aid to assist with the cost of the program, including tuition, fees, room and board.

When a student receives aid for a summer study abroad program, the student uses the equivalent of half a semester of financial aid (2 courses). Each student is eligible to receive institutional aid for a limited number of semesters- 8 semesters for entering first-year students and a prorated equivalent for transfer and New Resource students. For entering first-years and transfers, to remain within their semesters of eligibility, students are expected to be enrolled half-time (2 courses) for one semester upon returning from their summer study abroad program; this normally occurs during the student’s last semester of attendance. New Resource students who participate in summer study abroad use 2 courses of their total aid eligibility when they participate in summer study abroad. This affects their total aid eligibility. New Resource students should contact the Office of Financial Aid if they have questions about the impact of summer study abroad on their aid eligibility.

Students who seek financial aid assistance for summer study abroad must submit an application. The summer study abroad application and due dates will be posted on the Financial Aid Website during the spring semester.

Financial Aid Policies

Loan & Work Awards

Pitzer financial aid packages include self-help in the form of a subsidized loan and work-study. Self-help offers students an opportunity to obtain employment, establish good credit and invest in their education.

Each year that you progress toward your degree, you are eligible for increased loan funds from the Federal Direct Loan program. Pitzer believes that as you progress toward your degree, you should have a greater personal investment in your education. Thus, your loan and work awards increase slightly each year.

The loan and work-study levels for the 2020-21 academic year are:

Work-study levels for the 2020-21 academic year are for spring semester only. For fall, most work-study eligible students will receive a $500 work-study grant to assist with costs.

Semesters of Aid Limit

First-year students are eligible to receive institutional financial aid for eight semesters. Transfer and New Resources students are eligible for a prorated amount of financial aid eligibility based on the number of courses transferred to Pitzer College and accepted for credit by the Registrar’s Office at the time of admission. Transfer and New Resources students are notified of their financial aid eligibility limit during their admission to Pitzer.

If the student requires more time to complete their degree, the student is responsible for financing the extra cost, including tuition, fees, room, board, books and supplies. For more information, refer to Maximum Timeframe in the Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) section of this catalog.

Dependent/Independent Status

Students who are admitted to Pitzer College as dependent students cannot change their status to independent throughout their time at Pitzer. In general, no applicant under the age of 24 is considered independent of parental support for purposes of institutional aid. For the purposes of determining federal financial aid eligibility, Pitzer uses the dependency criteria listed on the FAFSA. If your family circumstances significantly change after you enroll at Pitzer, please contact the Office of Financial Aid.

Financial Aid “No” Applicants

Students who indicate on their Common Application that they are not interested in financial aid are not considered for institutional aid for that academic year. However, they may be considered for federal aid.

Domestic Students

For the 2019-20 year and prior, domestic students who did not apply for aid in the year they were admitted may apply for institutional financial aid in subsequent years and be considered for financial aid if they submit all financial aid requirements by the published deadlines and meet eligibility criteria. This policy is subject to change for the 2020-2021 academic year and onward.

International Students

International students who indicate on their Common Application that they are not interested in financial aid will not be able to change their status and seek financial aid in subsequent years. International students cannot change their financial aid status throughout their time at Pitzer.

Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy

The U.S. Department of Education requires Pitzer to monitor the academic progress of all students on federal financial aid, as stated in regulation 34 CFR 668.34. In addition, Pitzer also monitors the academic progress of students receiving state and institutional financial aid.

The Office of Financial Aid’s Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) policy monitors academic progress for all aid funds (federal, state and institutional). While the SAP requirements for federal, state and institutional aid are often similar, they are not identical. Students should carefully review this policy and contact our office with any questions.

Our SAP policy complies with federal requirements and sets reasonable expectations to ensure students make timely progress toward their degree. Monitoring SAP is not meant to be punitive- it is meant to notify students when they may be in jeopardy and provide enough notice for them to get back on track. Monitoring SAP ensures that students remain eligible for federal, state and institutional financial aid throughout their time at Pitzer.

Financial Aid Programs

SAP affects most, but not all, types of awards.

SAP Requirements

SAP for federal, state and institutional eligibility monitors three components: qualitative, quantitative and maximum timeframe.

• Qualitative (grade-based)

The qualitative component measures grade-based progress and monitors Grade Point Average (GPA). To meet this requirement, students must have a cumulative 2.0 GPA at the end of each semester and a cumulative 2.0 GPA at the end of two years of attendance.

• Quantitative (time-based)

The quantitative component measures the pace toward completing a degree and uses the following calculation:

cumulative number of courses earned ÷ cumulative number of courses attempted = pace of progression

Pace measures the cumulative number of courses earned over the cumulative number of courses attempted. To meet the pace requirement, students must have a cumulative pace of progression rate of 67% at the end of each semester.

Example 1: A second-year student attempted 12 courses (4 + 4 + 4) by the end of their third semester, but only earned 10 courses (4 + 4 + 2). The pace of progression rate is 10/12 = 83.3%. Since this rate is above 67%, the pace of progression requirement is met.

Example 2: A second-year student attempted 12 courses (4 + 4 + 4) by the end of their third semester, but only earned 7 courses (3 + 2 + 2). The pace of progression rate is 7/12 = 58.3%. Since this rate is below 67%, the pace of progression requirement is not met.

• Maximum Timeframe

The maximum timeframe requirement monitors the amount of time it takes to complete a degree. At Pitzer, students complete a degree once they earn a minimum of 32 courses, meet Pitzer’s Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs) requirement and fulfill all major requirements for their declared major(s). The maximum timeframe requirement also limits the number of semesters a student is eligible to receive aid. Maximum timeframe differs between federal, state and institutional aid programs.

Federal: The maximum timeframe for federal aid programs for all students is 12 full-time semesters. After receiving federal aid for 12 full-time semesters (at all institutions), students become ineligible for federal aid.

State: For the state Cal Grant program, students have a maximum timeframe of 8 full-time semesters. After receiving a Cal Grant for 8 full-time semesters, students become ineligible for the Cal Grant.

Institutional Aid: The maximum timeframe for institutional aid eligibility is different for traditional students, transfers and New Resource students.

Traditional: Traditional students have a maximum timeframe of 36 courses within 8 full-time semesters to earn their degree, whichever comes first. After receiving Pitzer aid for 8 full-time semesters or 36 courses, students become ineligible for institutional aid. To complete a degree within this timeframe, students must complete an average of 4 courses per semester within 8 full-time semesters.

Transfer: Transfer students have a prorated timeframe based on the grade level certified by Pitzer College at the time of admission. For example, a student who enters Pitzer as a second-year has a maximum timeframe of 6 full-time semesters to earn their degree, or 36 courses, whichever comes first. A student who enters as a third-year has a maximum timeframe of 4 full-time semesters to earn their degree, or 36 courses, whichever comes first. This calculation is based on the standard 8 full-time semesters required to complete a degree. To complete a degree within any given timeframe, students must complete an average of 4 courses per semester.

New Resources: New Resources students have a prorated timeframe based on the number of courses certified by Pitzer College at the time of admission. For example, a student who enters Pitzer with 10 courses receives institutional aid for 22 courses. This calculation is based on the standard 32 courses required to complete a degree. New Resource students who enroll part-time are expected to take 2 courses and use 2 courses toward their total aid eligibility. New Resource students who enroll as full-time are expected to take 4 courses and use 4 courses toward their total aid eligibility (even if only 3 courses are taken).

 Students in 36+ courses

Students who have or exceed 36 courses at the start of any semester will:

not be eligible for federal or state aid for that semester if the remaining courses are not required for their degree 

not be considered for aid for that semester. Students may appeal if the semester they are taking is required for them to complete their Pitzer degree. 

How Courses Count

Not all courses and grades are measured equally for the purposes of SAP. Below is a breakdown of how most courses are counted.

• Grades A, B, C, D: Passing grades of A, B, C and D count as attempted and earned courses. Grades A, B, C and D count toward the GPA.
• Grades F: Grades of F are not passing grades. Fs count as attempted, but not earned courses. Fs count toward the GPA.
• Courses dropped between census and drop deadline (No Ws): These courses are not assigned a W and do not appear on the academic transcript. These courses count as attempted, but not earned and count toward the maximum timeframe.
• Courses dropped on or after drop deadline (grades of W assigned): Grades of W count as attempted, but not earned courses and count toward the maximum timeframe. Ws do not count toward the GPA.
• Incompletes: Courses that receive an incomplete count as attempted courses, but not earned. Once a letter grade (A, B, C, D, F, W) is posted by the Registrar, courses with a passing grade count as earned.
• Audited Courses: Students do not earn any academic credit for audited courses. Audited courses do not count as attempted or earned courses.
• Repeated Courses: Pitzer’s academic policy states that students who do not receive a passing grade for a course, can repeat the course for credit. Repeating a course does not remove the original course from the academic transcript. Both the grade for the original course and the repeated course are posted and calculated into the GPA. Both the original course and the repeated course count as attempted courses. Courses with a passing grade count as earned.
• Pass/Fail Courses: Courses taken on a pass/fail basis count as attempted courses. Courses with a “pass” grade count as earned.
• Transfer Credit: Transfer credits from another institution accepted by Pitzer College count when measuring the maximum timeframe to complete a degree. Pitzer does not give credit for any transfer grades lower than a C (2.0). Consult the Pitzer Course Catalog for information about transfer credits.
• AP Courses: AP courses accepted by Pitzer College count as attempted and earned courses.

Frequency of SAP Review

The Office of Financial Aid monitors federal, state and institutional SAP requirements at the end of each semester for all enrolled financial aid recipients.

SAP is reviewed after grade and course information is posted by the Registrar’s Office at the end of each semester. Fall semester SAP is reviewed over the winter break and notices are sent in January before the start of the spring semester. Spring semester SAP is reviewed over the summer and notices are sent in July. Summer semester SAP is reviewed at the end of summer and notices are sent in end of July.

Leave of Absence

Students who take a leave of absence for a semester are not monitored for SAP for the semester on leave, so long as the student never enrolled for that semester. Students who begin the semester, but withdraw before the end of the semester, have SAP monitored at the end of the semester. Students on a leave of absence have their SAP eligibility reviewed when they notify the Registrar’s Office of their intent to return from leave.

Potential Delay in Disbursing Financial Aid

The Office of Financial Aid cannot disburse funds to the student’s account until SAP eligibility is reviewed. We make every attempt to notify students with SAP issues in a timely manner. However, because the period between the end of the fall semester and the start of the spring semester is brief, SAP notices may be delayed. This may delay disbursing aid for students who are not meeting SAP or who require additional information to complete our SAP evaluation.

Please note: posting “anticipated aid” or “expected aid” to the student’s account is not an indication of meeting SAP.

Not meeting Qualitative or Quantitative Requirements

Students who do not meet the GPA/pace requirements are placed on a one-time, Financial Aid SAP Warning Semester.

• First time not meeting SAP (Financial Aid Warning)

The first time a student does not meet either the SAP GPA or pace requirements, the student is placed on “Financial Aid Warning.” This “Warning” semester provides the student with the opportunity to regain SAP eligibility. During a “Warning” semester, students are eligible to receive federal, state and institutional funds.

Students are encouraged to take advantage of all campus resources to meet SAP. The SAP warning notice outlines all expectations required of the student during the “Warning” semester.

• Second time not meeting SAP (Financial Aid Ineligible)

If by the end of the “Warning” semester, the GPA is not at least a 2.0 or the pace of progression rate is not at or above 67%, the student is SAP disqualified and not eligible for federal, state or institutional financial aid.

Students who are disqualified have the right to appeal. If the appeal is approved, financial aid may be reinstated for one additional probation semester. See Appeals section for more information.

Frequency of Warning & Probation Semesters

• Frequency of Warning Semesters

Students can be placed on financial aid warning more than once, so long as the warning semesters are not consecutive.

• Frequency of Financial Aid Probation

Students can only be placed on Financial Aid Probation once. Students who do not meet SAP requirements at any point after a Financial Aid Probation semester, become disqualified for all sources of aid.

Students who successfully appeal SAP disqualification and have been reinstated for financial aid must maintain SAP throughout the remainder of their enrollment at Pitzer.  If a student fails to meet SAP a second time during their enrollment, they will not be allowed a second appeal.

Not meeting Maximum Timeframe Requirement

• Federal & State Aid

Students who reach the maximum timeframe for institutional financial aid may appeal for one additional semester of institutional aid IF there were extenuating circumstances beyond the student’s control that prevented them from finishing on time. See Appeals below.

Once students reach the maximum timeframe for a federal or state program, they are ineligible for further federal/state aid from that program. There is no appeal process for reaching the maximum timeframe in federal or state programs.

For the Federal Pell Grant Program, eligibility is based on 12 full-time semesters of enrollment. Pitzer College does not replace funds for students who would have been eligible for a Pell Grant, but have exhausted eligibility.

For the Federal Direct Subsidized/Unsubsidized loan, eligibility is based on 12 full-time semesters of enrollment and maximum loan limits. Pitzer College does not replace funds for students who would have been eligible for Direct Loans Subsidized/Unsubsidized Loan, but have exhausted eligibility.

• Institutional Aid

Students who reach the maximum timeframe for institutional financial aid may appeal for one additional semester of institutional aid IF there were extenuating circumstances beyond the student’s control that prevented them from finishing on time. See Appeals below.

Appeals

Students may appeal SAP disqualification to be considered for one additional semester of financial aid.

Appeals based on the following may be considered: extended illness, one-time extenuating circumstances that have since been resolved and enrollment limitations due to academic advisement.

Appeals based on the following will not be considered: student’s need of financial aid, lack of knowledge about the SAP policy.

Appeal Format

Students should carefully consider the information in their appeal. Appeals should be made in writing to the Office of Financial Aid and should be typed. We highly encourage students to seek help from their academic adviser when writing an appeal.

Appeals must include the following:

1. Reasons/circumstances that prevented the student from meeting GPA/pace requirements and/or completing their degree on-time
2. A clarification of how those circumstances have been resolved or addressed
3. An academic plan outlining courses required and steps needed to meet GPA/pace requirements and/or graduate within an additional semester
4. Support/acknowledgment from an academic adviser that the academic plan will result in meeting GPA/pace requirements and/or graduating within an additional semester

Appeal Granted

• Qualitative (GPA)/Quantitative (Pace) Appeal

If the appeal is granted, the student is placed on “probation” for one semester. During the probation semester, financial aid is reinstated.

If the student does not meet SAP by the end of the “probation” semester, the student becomes ineligible for federal, state and institutional financial aid. No additional appeals are considered.

• Maximum Timeframe Appeal

If the appeal is granted, the student receives one additional semester of institutional financial aid to complete their degree. If the degree is not earned within this extra semester, no additional institutional financial aid is granted. No additional appeals are considered for institutional aid.

Students with remaining federal or state financial aid may continue to receive those funds.

Appeal Denied

• Qualitative (GPA)/Quantitative (Pace) Appeal

If the appeal is denied, the student may regain eligibility for future semesters of federal, state or institutional aid by enrolling at Pitzer (at the student’s own expense) and bringing their GPA up to a 2.0 and/or pace of progression rate up to 67%. If SAP requirements are met during this semester, eligibility for federal, state and institutional financial aid will be reinstated for the following semester.

Students may choose to take a leave of absence from Pitzer and pursue transferable coursework at another institution to bring their pace of progression rate up to 67%. However, GPAs earned at other institutions do not impact the student’s GPA at Pitzer. Students who are ineligible for financial aid due to GPA can only raise their GPA by enrolling at Pitzer without financial aid.

NOTE: Coursework taken for transfer credit must be approved by the Registrar’s Office and meet outstanding degree requirements.

• Maximum Timeframe Appeal

If the appeal is denied, the student may still complete their degree by enrolling at Pitzer (at the student’s own expense).

The student may choose to take a leave of absence and pursue transferable coursework at another institution. This allows the student to complete courses at another school and transfer courses to Pitzer to complete their degree. However, not all courses may transfer; students in this situation should seek advice from an academic adviser.

NOTE: Coursework taken for transfer credit must be approved by the Registrar’s Office and meet outstanding degree requirements.

Leave of Absence & Withdrawal

Withdrawing from Some Classes

Financial aid recipients who withdraw from courses during the first ten days of each semester may have their financial aid revised for the semester IF their overall enrollment status changes (i.e. changing from full-time to part-time, etc.).

After census (the tenth day of the semester), enrollment status and financial aid awards are “locked.” If the enrollment status changes before census, the student’s financial aid award will be adjusted and a revised award letter will be posted to the student’s portal. Courses added or dropped after census do not result in changes to the financial aid award for the semester. It is important that students contact the Office of Financial Aid prior to withdrawing/adding courses to understand how possible changes could impact their award for the semester.

Withdrawing from All Classes

Types of Withdrawals

• Leave of Absence - leaving the College by dropping all classes for the semester with the Registrar’s Office and providing an intended date of return to Pitzer.
• Official Withdrawal - leaving the College by dropping all classes for the semester with the Registrar’s Office with no intent to return to Pitzer.
• Unofficial Withdrawal - receiving all unearned grades for the semester and not notifying the Registrar’s Office of the intent to withdraw.

If a student intends to withdraw from all courses during a semester, they must contact the Registrar’s Office. The Registrar will provide either a Leave of Absence Form or a Withdrawal Form. Both forms require the student to contact the Office of Financial Aid as part of the Leave/Withdrawal process.

Students who take a leave of absence or withdraw from the College and have borrowed a Federal Direct Loan, Federal Perkins Loan or a Pitzer College Loan must complete an Exit Counseling session prior to leaving campus.

Leave of Absence

Students who need to take a leave or withdrawal during the semester should schedule an appointment with the Office of Financial Aid to understand the impact to their financial aid award for the current semester and subsequent semesters. Students who are enrolled full-time, receive institutional aid and take a leave of absence or withdraw during the semester will use the equivalent of one semester of financial aid. Students have a limit to the number of semesters they can receive aid and a leave or withdrawal during a semester may affect the student’s ability to receive financial aid for additional semesters. Refer to the Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) policy above for additional information.

Unofficial Withdrawal

Students who cease attending classes and do not complete the formal withdrawal process through the Registrar’s Office are considered to be unofficial withdrawals. At the end of each semester, the Registrar’s Office provides the Office of Financial Aid with a “Zero Credit” report which reflects students who were registered for the semester and failed to complete any units (received only W, F or I grades). The Office of Financial Aid will review this report to determine if a Return of Title IV process is required.

Return to Title IV - R2T4

Students who receive Title IV federal student aid are subject to federal Return of Title IV Funds (R2T4) regulations. Title IV federal student aid is awarded with the expectation that the student will attend classes for the entire semester and “earn” the award. When a student stops attending classes prior to the end of the semester, the student may no longer be eligible for the full amount of federal funds the student was originally scheduled to receive. Students who withdraw from all classes on or before the semester is 60% complete, must have any “unearned” Title IV federal student aid be returned to the U.S. Treasury, even if the student is not entitled to a refund of tuition. Students who withdraw from all classes at the 60% period, earn all financial aid awarded for the term.

Determining the Student Withdrawal Date

The withdrawal date used for R2T4 calculations is the date indicated on the official withdrawal record. If there are multiple dates on the form, the earliest date is used. This earliest date is considered to be the student’s notification of their intent to withdraw. If the student withdraws without notifying the Registrar’s Office (unofficial withdrawal), the 50% point in the semester or the last date of academic related activity will be used as the student’s last date of attendance.

Definition of Academic Related Activity

To determine the withdrawal date for an unofficial withdrawal, the last date of an academic-related activity may be used. Academically related activities include, but are not limited to, attending a class where there is an opportunity for direct interaction between the instructor and students.

Recognized as Academically Related

• Exams, quizzes or tutorials
• Computer-assisted instruction
• Completion of an academic assignment, paper or project
• Participating in an online discussion about academic matters
• Initiating contact with a faculty member to ask a question about the academic subject

Not Considered Academically Related

• Student’s self-certification of attendance that is not supported by school documentation
• Living in Pitzer College housing
• Participating in the school’s meal plan
• Participating in academic counseling or advising

Calculating Earned vs. Unearned Aid

The Registrar’s Office sends email notifications to select offices once an official withdrawal is processed. This notification provides the last date of attendance for the student. The Office of Financial Aid will then determine if the student’s days of attendance in the term result in the student earning all of the aid awarded for the term. If not all aid is earned, the Office of Financial Aid will calculate the amount to be returned to the federal aid programs. Award adjustments are processed for students who do not earn 100% of the disbursed aid. Revised awards are then posted to the student’s account.

The following formula is used to determine the percentage of earned aid vs. unearned aid:

• The percent earned is equal to the number of calendar days enrolled, including the withdrawal date, divided by the total calendar days in the payment period (less any scheduled breaks that are at least 5 days long).
• The payment period is the entire semester. The percent unearned is equal to 100% minus the percent earned.
• If the percent earned exceeds 60% the student is considered to have earned 100% of the aid disbursed for the term.

The amount of Title IV aid earned by the student is determined by multiplying the percentage of Title IV aid earned by the total of Title IV program aid disbursed, plus the Title IV aid that could have been disbursed to the student or on the student’s behalf.

Calculation Example #1:

Fall Semester 2017 - Start Date 9-3-2019 - End Date 12-20-2019 - total days in semester: 104

Student withdraws from all courses 10-16-2019 - total days enrolled: 44

Enrolled days: 44 divided by the total days in semester: 104 = 42.3% of federal financial aid earned

Calculation Example #2:

Fall Semester 2017 - Start Date 9-3-2019 - End Date 12-20-2017 - total days in semester: 104

Student withdraws from all courses 11-13-2019 - total days enrolled: 72

Enrolled days: 72 divided by the total days in semester: 104 = 69.23%. Since this percentage exceeds 60%, 100% of federal financial aid earned

Returning Unearned Aid to Title IV Programs

Pitzer is required to return funds for students who have received more Title IV aid than was earned. The funds must be returned to the same federal program and must not exceed the amount of the initial disbursement. The order of return of funds is as follows:

• Unsubsidized Federal Direct Loan (other than Direct PLUS Loans)
• Subsidized Federal Direct Loan
• Federal Direct PLUS Loan
• Federal Pell Grant
• Federal SEOG

Institutional funds are prorated based on the Pitzer Refund policy. The Pitzer Tuition Refund policy is based on the R2T4 policy. Students earn a percentage of institutional dollars at the same rate they earned federal student aid based on the number of days enrolled in the semester.

Post-Withdrawal Disbursements (PWD)

In compliance with federal regulations, the Office of Financial Aid will determine if all eligible aid has been disbursed as of the withdrawal date. If not and the student meets the federal criteria for a PWD, the student will be notified of their eligibility within 30 days of determining the student’s date of withdrawal. After being notified of their PWD eligibility, students must reply if they wish to accept the post withdrawal disbursement. A PWD will first be used toward any outstanding charges before any funds are returned to the student. If no response is received within approximately two weeks of notification, the award will be cancelled.

Student Notification of Return to Title IV Funds

A notification letter outlining the amount of aid returned to the federal and institutional program(s) will be mailed to the student’s permanent address for students who officially withdraw from the College. Students who withdraw in a term and take a Leave of Absence will be notified via their campus email address. Pitzer College will return funds on the student’s behalf to the appropriate federal and institutional aid program(s). The student is responsible for all charges and overpayments to their Pitzer student account that result from a Return of Title IV calculation.