Pitzer College

Claremont, CA · Private · 1,227 undergrads

Admit rate: 25.2% (3,464 applicants)
Undergraduates: 1,227 (8.6% international)
Average net price: $34,191 (per year after aid)
Graduation rate: 83% (within 6 years)

Deadlines

Early Decision: Nov. 15, 2026
Early Decision II: Jan. 10, 2027
Regular Decision: Jan. 10, 2027

Essays

Pitzer Writing Supplement, option 1 (650 words (choose one prompt))

At Pitzer, five core values distinguish our approach to education: social responsibility, intercultural understanding, interdisciplinary learning, student engagement, and environmental sustainability. As agents of change, our students utilize these values to create solutions to our world's challenges. Please answer only one of the following prompts: Reflecting on your involvement throughout high school or within the community, how have you engaged with one of Pitzer's core values?

Pitzer Writing Supplement, option 2 (650 words (choose one prompt))

Describe what you are looking for from your college experience and why Pitzer would be a good fit for you.

Editor's notes

Your writing carries the file here. Pitzer doesn't accept test scores, and its CDS rates the essay, rigor, GPA, character and level of interest all very important. That makes the 650-word supplement nearly as important as the personal statement. Draft it early, not the night before Jan. 10.
Interest counts, and ED is how most people show it. Pitzer rates level of interest very important, and in fall 2025 early decision admitted 167 of 385 applicants. ED is binding, though, so only apply early if Pitzer is your clear first choice and you've run the net price calculator.
Read the core values before you write anything. They show up in the supplement prompt, in the profile of what Pitzer looks for and in its own AI policy. You don't need to quote them. You do need an essay that sounds like someone who'd live by one.