Pomona College Academy for Youth Success (PAYS)

The Pomona College Academy for Youth Success (PAYS) is a free, three-year college access program at Pomona College in Claremont, California, for high school students from Southern California. It is designed for students from groups underrepresented in higher education, such as those who would be the first in their family to attend college or who come from low-income families. Each year a committee of Pomona faculty and staff admits 30 new scholars, choosing them holistically based on academic potential. Admitted scholars return for three consecutive summers, from rising sophomore through rising senior year, for an intensive four-week residential program on campus. The summer includes college-level courses, workshops, projects, cultural events and field trips, and activities continue during the school year. The 2027 summer program runs June 20 to July 16, 2027. PAYS has no cost to students, and Pomona College pays for housing, meals, activities and field trip transportation.

Must be a current 9th grade student who lives in or attends high school in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino or Ventura County, California. First-generation college-bound status, low-income status (free or reduced lunch) and currently taking Geometry or Integrated Math II are considered but not required. The 2026-2027 application opens November 9, 2026. Apply with an online or paper application, two essays (500 words max each, plus an optional third essay), a current-year transcript, and two recommendation forms, one from a core subject teacher. Some applicants may be interviewed. The application and transcript deadline is February 22, 2027, recommendations are due March 1, 2027, and decisions are sent April 16, 2027.