These are archived Frequently Asked Questions for Pitzer’s COVID-19 guidelines. Current Frequently Asked Questions are available on this page.
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Archived FAQs for Students & Families
FALL 2022: Before coming to campus for the fall semester, are students required to have proof of a negative PCR COVID test?
Yes. Students will be required to provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test completed three to five days prior to their arrival and two to three days after their arrival on campus in August. However, if you have tested positive for COVID-19 in the past 90 days (prior to your move-in date), you will not be required to provide a PCR test at this time (unless you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms).
If a student tests positive prior to traveling to Pitzer, they need to notify [email protected]; anyone testing positive at the time they are planning to arrive at Pitzer, should not come to campus.
Students experiencing testing access barriers, including those traveling from international destinations, may contact [email protected] by Monday, August 15, for support.
FALL 2022: Are tests required for families and other guests who are helping Pitzer students move in?
For Move-in Days, families and other guests will not be required to provide a negative COVID test, but everyone will be required to wear masks indoors during the move-in process.
Anyone testing positive at the time they are planning to arrive at Pitzer, should not come to campus.
Please visit Residence Life’s pages for new students moving in on August 20 and returning students moving in on August 27-28 for additional information.
FALL 2022: What if a student doesn’t have access to a PCR test?
Students experiencing testing access barriers may contact [email protected] by August 15 for support, including those traveling from international destinations.
FALL 2022: Do students who tested positive during the summer need to notify Pitzer?
Yes. Students should notify Pitzer ([email protected]) by August 15 if they tested positive during the summer, as they may qualify for an exemption from testing if they fall within 90 days of a positive test (unless they are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms).
SPRING 2022: Are students, faculty, and staff required wear masks?
Indoor masking will be encouraged but not required indoors . We strongly support persons who continue masking in all circumstances, and Pitzer will continue to make masks available upon request.
However, specific offices, classrooms, programs, and individuals will be able to determine the masking policies for their spaces on campus. Community members are expected to cooperate with any such expectations or requirements, including those set forth at sister campuses within The Claremont Colleges.
Consistent with public health guidance, well-fitting, high-quality medical masks should be worn when required. N95 and other masks are available for free in the Office of Student Affairs, Dean of Faculty Office, Facilities, Gold Student Center, Dining Hall, and the Nurse Clinic.
See the 5.24.22 Community Message “Summer Session and Masking” for more information.
Please continue to adhere to other campus COVID-19 guidance and protocols, and remember that:
- When worn consistently and properly, surgical grade masks, such as N95s provide the highest level of protection from particles, including the virus that causes COVID-19;
- N95s are effective in protecting yourself from particles, even when others around you are not wearing face coverings;
- N95 masks are available for free in the Student Affairs office, Facilities, and the nurse clinic.
Updated 5/25/2022
SPRING 2022: What if I’m concerned about students, faculty, or staff who are not following COVID-19 protocols?
You may report a COVID-19 concern involving you, another individual, or a group by filling out a COVID-19 Concern Form. These concerns may involve issues related to monitoring symptoms, face-covering guidance, physical distancing, cleaning, COVID-19 disclosure, or other matters. Your privacy will be respected, and the information you report will be shared with other individuals only on a need-to-know basis.
SPRING 2022: Are Pitzer students required to be vaccinated?
Yes. Students are considered fully vaccinated two weeks after receiving their second dose of a two-dose vaccine (Pfizer or Moderna) or a dose of a single-dose vaccine (Johnson & Johnson). Exemptions for this requirement will be considered only for documented medical conditions or religious exceptions. For more information, visit the Student Vaccination Information and Requirement page.
SPRING 2022: How do I submit my vaccination status?
Students can submit their vaccine status—including the date they received their booster—via the Healthy Pitzer platform. Visit our Vaccine Self-Reporting Instructions page for step-by-step instructions. If your booster verification is in another language, please translate as much of the information as possible so the nurse can verify your booster is authorized by WHO.
Created in partnership with Student Health Services (SHS), Healthy Pitzer has been established for students, faculty, and staff to upload their official vaccination cards. Through the Healthy Pitzer platform, students, faculty, and staff can also make COVID-19 test appointments, access related forms, and more.
SPRING 2022: Do Pitzer students have to take routine COVID-19 tests?
Yes. Pitzer students are required to complete free weekly COVID-19 routine testing—once per week for vaccinated students and twice per week for unvaccinated students.
Pitzer students must check their test results as soon as they receive notification that it is available. If they test positive, they must immediately check their email and follow directives from SHS/OSA to isolate. Please see Student Spring 2022 Return Updates for more information.
For more information about COVID testing at Pitzer and the Claremont Colleges, visit our Student COVID Testing page. You can also visit the SHS Testing, Prevention, and Care page for additional information and resources.
Since the first two weeks of classes will be online, do I still need to move in on January 16?
Students who are not housing insecure, impacted by a living environment that is not conducive to remote learning, and live locally may partner with OSA to identify an alternative date to return to campus after January 16, but no later than Friday, January 28 (by noon to allow students to participate in required testing at Student Health Services). Staggered arrivals will allow Pitzer to dedicate support and resources to students traveling domestically or internationally to campus. Please complete the “Spring 2022 Arrival Plans” form on your Residence homepage by Wednesday, January 12, to let us know if you plan to arrive on January 16 or 17, or if you plan to delay your arrival.
Can I get a room-and-board refund if I stay home during the first two weeks while classes are remote?
Unfortunately, the answer is no, as the College is prepared to support students on campus beginning Sunday, January 16. Bed space is reserved and the meal plan is accessible during the first two weeks for all students. If you opt to stay home for extra days, the College is not able to prorate or refund as these resources remain available to you during this time.
If a student tests positive after coming to campus, can they isolate at home if they live within driving distance and can travel home safely without exposing others?
Yes, students can isolate at home. Please contact the on-call dean to begin this process. The Pitzer Dean On-Call can be reached 24/7 by calling Campus Safety (909.607.2000) and asking for the Pitzer Dean On-Call.
Are spring semester classes in-person?
Yes. Pitzer and 5C classes are in-person. For health and safety reasons, classes began online when the semester started on January 18. They have been in person since January 31.
As a reminder: all individuals, regardless of vaccination status, must wear a mask indoors unless a valid exception applies. Masks must meet Pitzer’s updated mask requirements (KN95, N95, or surgical masks), and Pitzer provides surgical and KN95s for students who need them. Some classes will also be taught outdoors.
Why is my class being held online if we’re back in person?
Yes. Pitzer and 5C classes are in-person. For health and safety reasons, classes began Classes across the consortium began in-person instruction on January 31; however, there are a few exceptions — approved by each college’s administration — based on the medical or personal needs of individual faculty members. Some of these classes may return to in-person instruction later in the semester as situations warrant.
Since classes will be online for the first two weeks of spring semester, will my tuition, meal plan, and room and board charges be adjusted?
No. Pitzer plans to resume classes in-person on campus on January 31, 2022; there will be no tuition adjustments made for the two weeks of the semester being online. All students who are living on campus will have access to their rooms, and the move-in dates will remain the same. New students are still given access to move into their rooms on Jan. 13, and returning students are still given access to move into their rooms on Jan 16-17. Rooms are reserved and will be available to all students. All students will also have access to their meal plan for the duration of time that courses will be online. If students decide to move in at a later date, their meal plan and board charges will remain the same since these amenities are available to them.
Will Commencement be in person? Are there any COVID-related restrictions?
Pitzer is planning in-person commencements for the Class of 2022 on May 14 and the Class of 2020 on May 21. Please visit the College’s main Commencement page for updated information about COVID-related policies.
For information about graduation and commencement participation requirements, visit the Office of the Registrar’s Graduation Information page.
As a reminder: all individuals, regardless of vaccination status, must wear a mask indoors unless a valid exception applies. Masks must meet Pitzer’s updated mask requirements (KN95, N95, or surgical masks), and Pitzer provides surgical and KN95s for students who need them.
updated 4/7/2022
Will there be non-academic student events and gatherings?
At the beginning of spring semester, we will not be registering student events (those over 30 people outdoors or indoors over 20 people) and any pre-registered events are canceled. Student club and organization meetings will be conducted virtually, and no 5C or non-5C community guests will be permitted on campus. We encourage students to only gather outdoors in small groups or indoors only if essential college business. Students are encouraged to check out outdoor lawn games from Campus Life.
No in-person 5C events will be held from the beginning of the semester through February 7, pending evaluation of our COVID-19 case trends and student compliance with flu and booster vaccination, testing and masking requirements.
A shared Spring 2022 5C Community Agreement is forthcoming that will include expectations for resuming cross-campus student life engagement in person. Please see Student Spring 2022 Return Updates for more information.
of the semester being online. All students who are living on campus will have access to their rooms, and the move-in dates will remain the same. New students are still given access to move into their rooms on Jan. 13, and returning students are still given access to move into their rooms on Jan 16-17. Rooms are reserved and will be available to all students. All students will also have access to their meal plan for the duration of time that courses will be online. If students decide to move in at a later date, their meal plan and board charges will remain the same since these amenities are available to them.
Spring 2022 Financial Aid
I plan to live at home with my family for the 2021-22 academic year. Will this impact my financial aid?
Yes. Students who plan to live with family will receive financial aid to assist with ‘at home’ housing costs. Visit Housing & Meals on the Financial Aid website for complete budget details.
Spring 2022 Student Accounts
What if I decide I don’t want to attend Pitzer anymore due to COVID?
If you have already registered and paid for your courses, you had until the start of the semester, on January 18, 2022, to withdraw or file a leave of absence. If you decide that you no longer want to attend the spring semester AFTER the start date, then you will be eligible for a pro-rated refund, depending upon the time of the withdrawal or leave.
When was tuition due for spring semester?
Tuition was due on Thursday, January 20, 2022. Students also had the option to sign up for Pitzer’s Payment Plan. For the spring semester, installments are due January through April on or before the 20th of each month.
Fall 2022: When is tuition due for fall semester?
Payment for the fall semester is due by August 20; for the spring semester, it is due January 20. Students also have the option to sign up for Pitzer’s Payment Plan. Please visit Student Accounts’ Due Dates & Payment Methods page for more information.
Spring 2022 Housing and Residential Life
Spring 2022: Is there 5C cross-campus dining?
Cross-campus 5C dining is suspended until further notice.
Updated 4/6/2022
Spring 2022: What are the guidelines for events on campus?
Events on campus are permitted for 30 people or fewer. Masks and reasonable distancing are required indoors and encouraged outdoors. Events with more than 30 participants need to be approved by the appropriate vice president. Student events with over 30 participants need to be approved and registered by Campus Life. There can be no 5C student events at this time—1C only.
Spring 2022: Is the Gold Student Center gym open?
The GSC gym is open to the 7Cs with restrictions. Students, regardless of school, MUST make an appointment 24 hours before or they will not be let in. Gym capacity is 20.
- The pool will reopen on Saturday, April 23, at 9 a.m. with reduced density. A maximum of 80 people will be permitted in the pool area at one time.
- You may enter the gym ONLY if you have made an appointment, regardless of the current gym occupancy.
- You may only use the gym for the hour you have signed up for.
In addition to these reminders, please continue to WEAR YOUR MASK as our masking policies will be strictly enforced. Please remember to enter the gym with a mask!
To make an appointment for the fitness center, visit the Gold Student Center Fitness page.
Updated 4/22/2022
Spring 2022: What is on-campus dining like?
Dining resumed indoors on Friday, April 22. McConnell Dining Hall will be limited to 50 percent capacity—a maximum of 200 people will be permitted in the dining hall at one time. The Shakedown and Pit-Stop Café will also shift to 50 percent capacity indoors. Grab-and-go dining is encouraged. Masks should be worn in all food service venues unless actively eating or drinking.
Updated 4/22/2022
Spring 2022: Can I have guests in my room?
In an update released on February 10, Pitzer announced that students are welcome to have Pitzer-only residential guests and visitors. Beginning February 26, all 5C community members will be welcome to visit each other in Pitzer residential rooms. Please see Student Spring 2022 Return Updates for more information.
Updated February 11, 2022
Spring 2022: Do we need to wear masks in our suite? Are my suitemates my “pod”?
Residents who live in a room or suite together are considered a “household” and will not be required to mask (but may choose to) in common rooms/residential rooms. During the COVID-19 surge, Student Health Services strongly encouraged students to enhance masking efforts, including when in suites with roommates except for when sleeping or eating and outdoors when around others.
Updated February 11, 2022
Spring 2022 Study Abroad
Are Pitzer-run study abroad programs running this semester?
As of January 7, Pitzer in Costa Rica, Pitzer in Ecuador, Pitzer in Italy, and Pitzer in Tanzania, South Africa and Zimbabwe are scheduled to run this spring. A few exchange programs are also scheduled to be in operation. For more information, please email [email protected] or visit www.pitzer.edu/study-abroad/.
Is Pitzer planning to run study abroad programs in summer 2022?
As of January 7, the Office of Study Abroad and International Programs is planning to run Costa Rica Summer Health, Pitzer in Brazil, and Pitzer in Vietnam in summer 2022. For more information, please email [email protected] or visit www.pitzer.edu/study-abroad/.
My family was financially impacted by COVID-19. Can I receive more financial aid?
Changes to finances due to COVID-19 can be reviewed to re-assess aid eligibility. Families should review the Financial Aid Appeal Application and upload any relevant documentation to IDOC.
Have already received aid package: We highly encourage students who have already received their aid package to first request an appointment to discuss their circumstances with a financial aid counselor.
Have not received aid package: Please visit your Student Portal to view any outstanding documents. Submit required documents along with Financial Aid Appeal Application and relevant documentation to IDOC.
What if I or my family still have financial aid questions?
You can request appointments to meet with Financial Aid staff. Zoom and phone appointments are available.
Can I receive financial aid to live off-campus?
Yes. Students who plan to rent off-campus will receive financial aid to assist with off-campus housing costs. Visit Housing & Meals on the Financial Aid website for complete budget details.
Why does my balance due in CASHNet not reflect my financial aid? I was expecting my balance due to be a lot less than what I’m seeing.
When logging into CASHNet in your student portal to view or pay your bill, you might notice that the balance due on the front page is a higher balance than you had expected. If you are a financial aid recipient, you will need to view your statement where your anticipated aid will be reflected. The statement will show you your balance due with financial aid; the home page on CASHnet will show you your balance due WITHOUT aid.
Spring 2022 FAQs for International Students
What if I’m arriving from an international location?
As of December 6, all air passengers traveling into the US, regardless of vaccination status, had to show a negative COVID-19 test taken no more than 1 day before travel to the United States. The test can be antigen or PCR, but please check with your airline to see what they require.
If you took a PCR test, that fulfilled Pitzer’s requirement to test before arriving on campus.
If you had an antigen test though, you needed to get a PCR test ASAP when you got to campus (when SHS is open) and mask around others until you obtained your results.
Visit the CDC’s Travel Requirements page for more information: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/international-travel/index.html updated 1/24/2022
Spring 2022 Student Employment
What if I’m looking for a job at Pitzer for the spring semester?
New student positions will be available this spring semester. Jobs will be posted at different times, so students should begin monitoring for postings. Here is a brief description of the steps for securing a job.
- Search Handshake for open positions: https://pitzer.joinhandshake.com/ . Go to the “Jobs” tab and search “Pitzer” in the search bar and filter on “On-Campus Employment”. You can also search for “TCCS” for consortial opportunities. Here is a quick guide to searching for positions in Handshake.
- Follow the directions on the posting for applying to jobs. These will vary by position.
- Submit the Student Employee Information Form to EACH position you seek, in addition to any documents (e.g., resume, cover letter, etc.) or information requested by the supervisor. Please note on the form accurately if your supervisor is a faculty member OR member of the staff.
- Once selected for a position, you will be provided a form to complete and submit to your supervisor. You cannot begin work until authorized by HR to do so.
- New Student Hires: Students who have not previously worked at Pitzer need to provide documents to verify their eligibility to work in the U.S. This usually entails providing Human Resources with original and unexpired I-9 documents. Original documents must be presented, so please plan accordingly to have these when needed in the spring semester.
Spring 2022 Pomona-Pitzer Athletics
Are we able to attend Pomona-Pitzer Athletics games?
All athletic competitions are open to a limited number of students, faculty, and staff. Outside spectators will not allowed until further notice. Please check the Sagehens website or @Sagehens on Twitter for updates.
FAQs on Fall 2021 Requirements
Pre-Arrival COVID-19 Test Requirement
What if we can’t book a test prior to arrival as testing locations are booked up? If we can’t get an appointment exactly 3 days before, is 2 days before (or 4-5 days before) ok instead?
- We know our Pitzer community will do the best we can with this new requirement.
- Please aim to take the PCR COVID test 3 days prior to arrival.
- If that’s not possible, then 3-5 days prior to arrival would be ok.
- If this is impossible to do, we will take negative test results done 1-2 days before arrival as well.
- If a test prior to arrival is completely impossible, then:
- New Students arriving Aug. 21:
- We will need you to take a local COVID PCR test on move-in day. We recommend using the Pomona Fairplex testing location run by LA County. This site is drive-up only and is open on Saturday, Aug. 21 from 7:30am-4:00pm. Additional local testing locations can be found here.
- Students will need to provide negative test results by Sunday, Aug. 22 at 8pm to [email protected] in order to go on their OA Trips. Please plan to get tested as soon as possible on Saturday morning to expedite test results.
- If a student needs transportation to this testing location, they should plan to arrive before noon and speak with the info table outside Admission Office promptly.
- Sophomores/Transfers arriving Aug. 22:
- May get tested at SHS on Monday during the gaps in their Orientation schedule.
- Testing hours are available at Student Health Services Monday-Friday, 7:30 am-12 pm and 1 pm-4:30 pm. Testing can be done at any time during testing hours, appointments are not required. Please do not eat, drink, smoke, brush your teeth or apply lipstick/chapstick 60 minutes prior to your test. Please watch these video instructions prior to arriving at SHS.
- Returning Students arriving Aug. 28/29
- Saturday, Aug. 28: SHS will be open 12pm-3pm for you to take a COVID PCR test on move-in day if you were not able to get one in advance.
- Sunday, Aug. 29: Students are asked to test in advance if possible. If that is impossible, students may test at SHS on Monday, Aug. 30 and email results to [email protected]
The requirement said 72 hours prior to arrival. Does the time of day the test is taken matter?
Go by 3 days prior to move-in day. So on Thursday, get tested for a Sunday arrival, as an example. Time of day doesn’t matter.
Is it getting the test DONE 3 days before arrival or getting the RESULTS 3 days before arrival?
The test should be TAKEN 3 days before arrival. So if you are planning to arrive on Saturday, Aug. 21, the test should be taken on Wednesday, August 18
My student is an early arrival, coming in before August 21; what do they do?
We sent coaches/supervisors a different update to send early arrival students. Basically, early arrival students should ideally still get a negative test in advance of arrival if possible, but they can also test at SHS the first day they arrive. Please talk with your coach/supervisor with questions!
My student is already local to Claremont, where can they get tested?
They are welcome to use Student Health Services! Testing hours are available at Student Health Services Monday-Friday, 7:30 am-12 pm and 1 pm -4:30 pm. Testing can be done at any time during testing hours, appointments are not required. Please do not eat, drink, smoke, brush your teeth or apply lipstick/chapstick 60 minutes prior to your test. Please watch these video instructions prior to arriving at SHS.
What other locations can I get a test in the area if I miss SHS’s posted times?
https://covid19.lacounty.gov/testing/
What proof will we need to show upon arrival? A printed letter? Something on our phone?
We need to review proof of negative test upon check-in at Pitzer. Proof printed or on a phone is fine.
How often will regular testing for students be? How often will we have to be tested?
We are still determining exact details, but we are planning to test students once a week.
Will Pitzer provide the COVID testing?
Student Health Services will provide COVID testing to any students who are currently local to Claremont. SHS will continue to provide COVID testing access throughout the year.
Are masks required for all indoor activities/classes?
Yes, face masks are required indoors (regardless of vaccination status), except for in an individual office or residential suite/home. Face masks are not currently required outdoors on-campus unless you are unvaccinated and cannot maintain a safe distance from others while outdoors.
Does the PCR test have to be taken exactly 3 days before or could we take it 1-2 days before?
Will students who do not move in need to be tested for COVID 3 days before school starts? Will off-campus students be required to get a COVID test prior to arrival as well?
Students who are living off-campus this fall will be asked to provide proof of a negative PCR COVID test, taken 3 days before, to the College before they are able to come to campus. Please email the Office of Student Affairs at [email protected] with your COVID PCR negative test.
Why are masks mandatory outside?
Masking is only required outside during our large move-in days (Aug. 21/22 and 28/29). This requirement is due to the number of people we have on-campus during those days.
If a move-in helper shows up for move-in day and DOES NOT have proof of vaccination or a recent negative COVID test, what happens?
Move-in helpers that aren’t able to follow our COVID safety protocols will not be able to enter any campus facilities. They can unload the vehicle outdoors and are asked to leave campus after unloading.
If I’ve had COVID in the last 3 months, how do I show proof of a negative COVID PCR test?
Send proof of your COVID diagnosis (dated within the last three months) to [email protected] no less than 3 days before your arrival to campus. Ensure your diagnosis date is on the documentation. This will let us know that you are exempt from the PCR COVID test requirement for move-in. We will continue to be in contact with you about when you’ll need to begin screening testing weekly.
COVID-19 Vaccination Information & Protection Measures
Are Pitzer students required to be vaccinated against COVID-19?
Yes. Students need to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before returning to campus. Students are considered fully vaccinated two weeks after receiving their second dose of a two-dose vaccine (Pfizer or Moderna) or a dose of a single-dose vaccine (Johnson & Johnson). Students arriving from international destinations, who could not get access to the vaccine abroad, need to coordinate an early arrival with Residence Life to get access to a vaccine with SHS upon arrival at campus. Exemptions for this requirement will be considered only for documented medical conditions or religious exceptions. For more information, visit the Student Vaccination Information and Requirement page.
How do I submit my vaccination status?
Students can submit their vaccine status via the Healthy Pitzer platform. Visit our Vaccine Self-Reporting Instructions page for step-by-step instructions.
Created in partnership with Student Health Services (SHS), Healthy Pitzer has been established for students, faculty, and staff to upload their official vaccination cards. Through the Healthy Pitzer platform, students, faculty, and staff can also make COVID-19 test appointments, access related forms, and more.
I am a student arriving from an international location. What do I need to do prior to coming to campus?
Will students, faculty, and staff be required to wear a mask on campus this fall?
As of July 2021, all Pitzer community members are required to wear face masks whenever they are indoors (regardless of vaccination status), except if they are in their residential suite/home or their individual office. Face masks are not currently required outdoors on campus unless you are unvaccinated and cannot maintain a safe distance from others. Please see Pitzer’s Community Agreement for more information.
Those who are required to wear a face covering but cannot do so due to a medical or mental health condition or disability, or who are hearing impaired or communicating with a hearing-impaired person, must wear an effective, non-restrictive alternative (such as a face shield with a drape on the bottom) if the individual’s condition/disability permits it. Students may contact Associate Dean Gabriella Tempestoso at [email protected] for any accommodations support.
We recognize that some students, faculty, and staff may choose to continue to wear a face mask regardless of vaccination status. Please continue to be Mindful of Each Other, avoid any judgement, and support anyone who chooses to wear a face mask.
Pitzer’s current policy is informed by the latest guidance from the CDC and Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH). The College will continue to evaluate and update its policies in light of changes with official public health recommendations.
Will we be practicing physical distancing on campus this fall?
Other than the conditions stated above for those who are unvaccinated, the State and County no longer impose any other physical distancing requirements. That said, physical distancing is still recommended; please be considerate of those around you and maintain six feet distance when possible.
We continue to collaborate with other 5Cs, and as they confirm their fall return-to-campus plans, we will provide updates on policies Pitzer students should expect to follow while visiting sister campuses.
What if I’m concerned about students, faculty, or staff who are not following COVID-19 protocols?
You may report a COVID-19 concern involving you, another individual, or a group by filling out a COVID-19 Concern Form. These concerns may involve issues related to monitoring symptoms, face-covering guidance, physical distancing, cleaning, COVID-19 disclosure, or other matters. Your privacy will be respected, and information you report will be shared with other individuals only on a need-to-know basis.
Will regular COVID-19 screening tests be required for students this fall?
All Pitzer students are required to complete free weekly COVID-19 routine testing, including once per week for vaccinated students and twice per week for unvaccinated students. Please read Pitzer’s Mandatory Weekly Student Routine COVID-19 Testing policy for more information.
Will there be contact tracing if someone on campus tests positive for COVID-19?
The Claremont Colleges Services (TCCS) will perform centralized contact tracing for all students and employees with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 who have been present on The Claremont Colleges campuses or who have had interactions with other students or staff within the 14 days prior to illness onset and reside in local surrounding communities. The illness onset date is the first date of COVID-19 symptoms. If the case had no symptoms, the illness onset date is the COVID-19 test date. Due to the rapidly evolving nature of guidance related to COVID-19, these definitions and protocols are subject to change as public health guidance is updated. Contact tracers will be centralized in Student Health Services (SHS) and will work in collaboration with Pitzer’s Contact Tracing Liaison: [email protected]. If contacted by a member of the contact tracing team, students are asked to respond as soon as possible to determine next steps. Students are also responsible for maintaining current and accurate personal contact information and emergency contact information in the student portal for this purpose.
What should I do if I test positive for COVID-19 during the semester, or if I’m unvaccinated/not fully vaccinated and have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive?
Notify Student Health Services and Student Affairs immediately. You can call SHS directly during business hours and should contact Student Affairs via phone during business hours at 909.607.8241 or by calling Campus Safety 24/7 at 909.607.2000 and asking for the Pitzer Dean On-Call. This will initiate the quarantine and support processes.
Are there new cleaning and disinfecting protocols and air-filtration systems?
Campus Facilities operates in accordance with the increased cleaning and disinfection protocols recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, using Environmental Protection Agency-approved products that are effective against the COVID-19 virus. Throughout the pandemic, Facilities has monitored and adopted CDC and county public health recommendations.
Pitzer’s custodial staff will continue to conduct enhanced cleaning and disinfecting of public/common spaces such as restrooms, lounges, lobbies, hallways, and high-touch areas and objects, including light switches, railings, and door handles. Hand-sanitizer stations will be located at key areas within campus buildings, while our restroom fixtures and drinking fountains are hands-free.
To provide cleaner air, upgraded air filters have been installed in every building, and an ion generator cleaning system has been installed in buildings without operable windows. Additionally, Pitzer is working with an environmental engineer to conduct air-quality testing.
Fall 2021 Move-In
Do you have recommendations about what I should (or should not) bring to move into the residence halls?
When do RAs, other student leaders, and some fall-season athletes move in?
Student leaders and athletes who need to arrive early should communicate with their supervisor/advisor/coach for more information. All students who are arriving early (after being approved by their supervisor) must complete an Early Arrival application on their Residence Homepage for approval. Please review the College’s Early Arrival Policies for more information.
Fall 2021 Academics
What is the modification to the Pitzer College Course Withdrawal Policy for fall semester 2021?
On November 18, 2021, the Pitzer College faculty voted to eliminate grade requirements for Pitzer students to withdraw from a course for fall semester 2021. The deadline for course withdrawal remains December 10, the last day of classes.
For fall semester 2021, students may withdraw from a course after the deadline for dropping courses, but no later than the last day of classes, regardless of the grade the student is currently earning in the course. Signed approval of the course instructor and faculty adviser is required. For these approved withdraws, students’ transcripts will show “W” (Withdraw). Students may not withdraw from a course after the last day of classes. Withdraw forms must be on file in the Registrar’s Office by the last day of classes. Check the Academic Calendar for the date. Petitions for late withdraws will be reviewed by the Academic Standards Committee.
Updated 11/30/2021
Will Pitzer classes be in person this fall?
At this time, yes, we are expecting and planning for in-person instruction.
Campus-wide masking policies will apply to in-person classes. As of July 12, Pitzer requires all community members to wear face coverings while indoors (regardless of vaccination status), except for in individual offices or residential suites/homes. Please refer to Pitzer’s Community Agreement for more information.
The first day of classes was Monday, August 30, 2021.
Updated 8/2/21
Will students be able to take classes remotely/virtually again this year?
At this time, we are planning for in-person instruction this academic year.
Are there any online options for First-Year Seminars?
No. At this time, we are planning for in-person instruction this academic year, and this includes all sections of FYS.
Does a First-Year Seminar count as a full class?
Yes, an FYS is a full-credit class. It also fulfills the College’s written-expression educational objective requirement.
Will students be able to cross-register for and take classes at the other Claremont Colleges?
Yes. Students are currently cross-registered for courses, and we anticipate they will attend those in person.
What does it mean to PERM a class?
PERM is shorthand for “instructor permission.” If you don’t meet the requirements for a course, or if enrollment is restricted, you may need to request permission from the instructor to enroll. For more information, visit the “Instructor Permission and the PERM System” on our How to Register for Classes page.
Do classes have waitlists, and is this the same thing as a PERM?
There are no official, online waitlists for closed classes, and waitlists are not the same as a PERM (instructor permission). However, some instructors do maintain their own waitlists and may use PERM requests to create those lists. To find out if a course has a waitlist, contact the instructor directly.
I am just starting at Pitzer. Who is my academic advisor, and when will I meet that person?
You can find your academic advisor’s name and email address on the MyCampus2 Portal. Students will meet their advisors at a designated group advising meeting: August 15 for first-year students and August 10 for transfer and New Resources students. For more details, go to: https://www.pitzer.edu/student-life/newstudentorientation/
How do I know if the classes I am taking meet the College’s educational requirements?
You can look up a given class in the Course Schedule found in mycampus2portal. Once you select the correct semester, the correct course area, and the actual course itself, click on the course title. Look under “course areas” to see which educational objectives (if any) it fulfills, such as “Social/Behavioral Science” or “Intercultural Understanding: Global.” Additionally, you can ask your academic advisor for their help in attaining this information.
Can continuing students change their class schedule?
Pre-registration began on April 20. The add/drop period will remain open until Monday, September 13, which is the last day to add courses for fall 2021 or to drop a class for a tuition refund or financial aid adjustment. Information about the last day to add/drop is listed on the Academic Calendar.
Continuing students should note that online registration via the student portal will not be available between Saturday, August 14, and Monday, August 23, at 8 a.m. This is to allow all new students time to register without enrollment fluctuations.
When does Drop/Add occur?
For continuing students, pre-registration began April 20, and the add/drop period will remain open until Monday, September 13, which is the last day to add courses for fall 2021. September 13 is also the last day to drop a class for a tuition refund or financial aid adjustment. Dropping a class later in the semester has different financial and academic implications. For more info, please refer to the Academic Calendar and Student Accounts’ Important Dates page.
What is Pitzer’s transfer credit policy for the 2021-22 academic year and beyond?
We are returning to our regular transfer credit policy. The modification that was in place for the 2020-21 academic year (limiting transfer credits to 2.0 credits for the year) has been lifted. All transfer credits still require Field Group approval, and students should have transfer classes approved in advance, if at all possible.
If a student is quarantined/in isolation, will they be able to continue their coursework?
If students are quarantined/in isolation, we will work with them on a case-by-case basis, along with their instructors, and the Office of Student Affairs to help ensure that they are able to continue with their coursework (health permitting). Pitzer Academic Support Services will assist with appropriate accommodations, as needed. Also, the College will be hiring additional note-takers and tutors in the event of such needs.
Will the 3+1 enrollment program (3 classes during the spring plus 1 during the summer session) be an option this academic year?
No. That unique 3+1 program is over. As announced when it was offered, it was a one-time program, created in response to special circumstances.
Fall 2021 Housing and Residential Life
Do we need to wear masks in the suite? Are my suitemates my “pod”?
Residents who live in a room or suite together are considered a “household” and will not need to mask (but may choose to) in common rooms/residential rooms.
You don’t need to only socialize with your suitemates, and you can have masked visitors from the Claremont Colleges over to your suite, as long as all suitemates agree.
Can I have guests over in my room?
Residents who live in a room together are considered a “household” and will not need to mask (but may choose to) in suite common rooms/residential rooms.
Students may invite fellow Claremont Colleges students into their residential rooms and suites (regardless of vaccination status), as long as all individuals stay masked while indoors and as long as all suite members agree to host guests.
No non-Claremont Colleges guests/visitors are allowed inside the residence halls after Move-in Day.
Pitzer’s Residential Life Guest Policy is in the College’s Community Agreement: https://www.pitzer.edu/pathway-forward/return-to-campus/pitzers-community-agreement-in-response-to-covid-19/
Will kitchens, study rooms, and other common areas be open for student use?
Yes. These spaces are open and available for student use this fall. Some additional COVID-related rules apply to the use of spaces generally across campus (e.g., indoor masking, enhanced cleaning/ventilation), and those rules would additionally apply to these spaces.
Can off-campus Pitzer students come to campus and use study rooms/living rooms/etc. in the residence halls?
Yes. Off-campus students have the same vaccination/testing expectations as on-campus students. They have access to the same resources as on-campus students.
What happens if I test positive for COVID-19 while living on campus?
Residential students who test positive for COVID will be placed in Pitzer’s isolation housing. Meals will be delivered to their door, they will have daily health check-ins with a medical provider from SHS, as well as wellness and mental health support. Students will also be required to participate in Contact Tracing Protocols if it is determined that other students were potentially exposed. Please read Pitzer’s Quarantine and Isolation Plans for more information.
Fall 2021 Dining Services
What does dining on campus look like this fall?
McConnell Dining Hall, the Pit-Stop Café, and the Shakedown Café will be open with some extended hours and new service styles. The Grove House will not be used for food service this fall.
In addition, we will have enhanced outdoor seating options, and students will have access to picnic blankets from the Office of Student Affairs. To provide students with additional opportunities for meals, we have extended meal-service hours, and we are exploring an option for pre-ordered pre-packaged meals so students can grab a meal in the morning to take anywhere.
For more information, visit our Pathway Forward Food and Dining Services page.
Can Pitzer students eat at other Claremont Colleges’ dining halls?
Unfortunately, no. We know this is a hallmark Claremont Colleges experience and we are committed to exploring the resumption to crossover dining for spring. For now, due to public health guidelines, the Claremont Colleges have agreed to host only their own students at their own dining facilities for the fall semester.
How do meal plans work for students living on campus?
Typically, students can only use their 5-, 12-, or 16-meal plans during designated mealtimes in the McConnell Dining Hall (three meal periods on weekdays and two meal periods on weekends for a total of 19 meal periods each week).
During fall 2021, students will be able to get a meal using one of their meal swipes at McConnell, the Pit-Stop Café, as well as the Shakedown Café during extended hours. This means students can use a meal swipe for one complete meal at these additional venues. For more information, visit our Pathway Forward Food and Dining Services page.
What dining options are available for students living off-campus?
Students who live off campus can still choose to opt for no meal plan in fall 2021, or can choose a 5-, 12- or 16-meal plan.
Fall 2021 Campus Life
Are The Claremont Colleges Services offices and the library open?
At this time, Student Health Services and Monsour Counseling and Psychological Services plan to be open during regular hours. Due to CDC and Los Angeles County public health guidance, masks must be worn in these spaces at all times.
The Student Disability Resource Center, Health Education Outreach, Office of Black Student Affairs, Chicano Latino Student Affairs, and the Chaplains Office will have hybrid schedules. Updates regarding office schedules will be provided in the near future.
Please visit the COVID-19 Library Updates & Resources page for additional details and the most up-to-date information about The Claremont Colleges Library.
Pitzer students are expected to follow Pitzer’s masking guidelines and any other guidance from the offices above that may be forthcoming.
Updated 9/2/21
What are plans for the GSC gym and the pool?
For information about Pitzer College’s Gold Student Health & Wellness Center (GSC), which includes the fitness center, pool, Pilates studio, and yoga studio, will be open during the academic year, please visit the GSC website.
Updated 7/16/21
Will there be 5C parties this year?
The Claremont Colleges are working collaboratively to ensure that there is a robust campus life when students return. Pitzer students can anticipate programs and events to occur on Pitzer’s campus beginning fall 2021, and student organizations and campus groups can anticipate being able to plan events for their peers and the community. All student-run campus events must be submitted for approval for the fall 2021 semester. Prior to submitting a request, students should review Event Guidelines. Organizers of all student-run events must fill out an Event Approval Request Form.
As the 5C campuses re-open, students should expect an incremental approach to cross-campus programming. Students will be given the opportunity to adjust to the new protocols and get comfortable being on their own campus before 5C events will be hosted. If circumstances permit, 5C events will be integrated back into campus life after an initial adjustment period, and students will be able to interact with students from the other undergraduate colleges in larger settings. Pitzer will continue to host “Weeks of Welcome” to welcome our students back to campus life and will continue to honor our “Substance Free Weeks” (which is from the time students arrive on-campus in August up until the first Sunday of the semester, Sunday, Sept. 5).
Updated 9/2/21
Fall 2021 Sagehen Athletics
What recreation facilities at Pomona College will Pitzer students have access to?
Pomona College’s outdoor recreation facilities are now open to all Sagehens—Pomona and Pitzer students alike.
With Pomona’s Rains Center under construction, a temporary indoor fitness center, adjacent to Strehle Track, was scheduled to open on August 24, and Pomona planned to start offering outdoor group fitness classes at that time. Currently, CMC’s Roberts Pavilion is slated to be available to Pomona and Pitzer students for limited hours starting in October.
Pitzer students will need to complete a daily health check through the Healthy Pitzer Daily Screening Form; proof of the completed form must be provided upon arrival to the facility. Please view instructions here. For any technical issues or questions regarding the Healthy Pitzer app, contact the Pitzer Help Desk at [email protected].
Students need to present an ID to access Pomona’s recreation facilities. Any Pitzer student who doesn’t yet have an ID should get one at The Connection prior to visiting Pomona’s recreation facilities.
All plans for recreational facilities are subject to change, depending upon guidance from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health.
Students with additional questions may contact Malcolm Perry, assistant director of athletics for operations, facilities, and events.
Updated 7/24/21
Will there be a fall season for Pomona-Pitzer Athletics?
Pomona-Pitzer Athletics is committed to returning to our normal competition schedules, and we are excited to see the Sagehens in action again! Barring any unforeseen circumstances, we will be competing this upcoming year. We are working in conjunction with the SCIAC and other college athletics organizations, so please visit our Reopening Sagehen Athletics page for the latest developments. You can also follow @Sagehens on Twitter for updates.
Are all Pomona-Pitzer athletes required to be vaccinated?
All student-athletes will be expected to follow the vaccination requirements set forth by Pitzer and Pomona Colleges. Those seeking exemptions should engage in the necessary process on their respective campuses.
How will athletics be different this fall? Will there be social distancing, masking requirements, etc.?
We will continue to follow current campus, county, and state guidelines, which continue to evolve as circumstances change. Please check our Reopening Sagehen Athletics page regularly. You can also follow @Sagehens on Twitter for updates.
Fall 2021 Study Abroad and International Programs
Are Pitzer students studying abroad this fall semester?
None of Pitzer’s direct-run sites will be running in the fall. A small number of students are studying abroad in a very limited number of third-party and exchange sites. The Office of Study Abroad is no longer accepting new applications for fall 2021.
Will Pitzer’s study abroad program offer any virtual courses in fall 2021?
Yes. Each of our direct-run sites (Costa Rica, Ecuador, Italy, Nepal, and South Africa/Zimbabwe) will offer a full-credit virtual internship course in fall 2021. These courses are open to all Pitzer students—including incoming first-year students. The Office of Study Abroad will disseminate more details on these courses as they become available.
If I’m thinking about studying abroad after the 2021-22 academic year, do I need to do anything now?
Yes. Students considering studying abroad in fall 2022 should attend an information session in fall 2021. The priority deadline to study abroad in fall 2022 will still be in late fall 2021 (exact date TBD). If spaces are available, students may still apply for fall 2022 programs in spring 2022 but are encouraged to complete this process in the fall.
I’m not sure if or when I want to study abroad. Could I talk with someone over the summer about Pitzer’s study abroad opportunities?
While we are happy to meet students at the beginning of the fall semester, students are always welcome to discuss study abroad interests with the study abroad office over the summer. Students can set up a meeting with a study abroad advisor by clicking here: https://www.pitzer.edu/study-abroad/contact-us/
Fall 2021 Financial Aid
I plan to live at home with my family for the 2021-22 academic year. Will this impact my financial aid?
Yes. Students who plan to live with family will receive financial aid to assist with ‘at home’ housing costs. Visit Housing & Meals on the Financial Aid website for complete budget details.
Can I receive financial aid to live off-campus?
Yes. Students who plan to rent off-campus will receive financial aid to assist with off-campus housing costs. Visit Housing & Meals on the Financial Aid website for complete budget details.
Will student employment be available for the 2021-22 academic year?
Yes. Available campus positions will be posted in Handshake: https://pitzer.joinhandshake.com/. All students should be able to log in using their Pitzer username and password. To find on-campus jobs in Handshake, select the “Jobs” tab, search for “Pitzer” in the search bar, and filter for “On-campus”. Students should read the job postings carefully and follow the application instructions. Some campus employers ask for students to submit application materials (resume, cover letter, etc.) through Handshake. Others request that students contact the supervisor directly, usually by e-mail. Please follow the stated application method.
An On-Campus Job Fair featuring Pitzer and consortium-based employers is scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 2, 3:30-5 p.m. PDT, location TBD.
NEW and IMPORTANT: As a part of seeking campus employment, students must complete the new Student Employment Information Form that is available at Student Employment Information Form. Students will upload the form in Handshake, particularly for jobs that gather applications directly through the Handshake platform, and/or will send it as an e-mail attachment to supervisors that request direct e-mail communication. Students should supply this form to ALL jobs to which they apply. Supervisors may also request other documents (resume, cover letter, etc.).
New Student Hires: Students who have not previously worked at Pitzer need to provide documents to verify their eligibility to work in the U.S. This usually entails providing Human Resources with original and unexpired I-9 documents. Original documents must be presented.
Updated 8/20/21
Will I receive work-study for the 2021-22 academic year?
Financial aid applicants will be considered for work-study this academic year. Returning students must complete all application requirements no later than August 31 to be considered for work-study. Work-study is need-based; eligibility will depend on financial need.
My family was financially impacted by COVID-19. Can I apply for financial aid?
Yes. Students not currently on aid who have been significantly impacted by COVID-19 are welcome to apply for financial aid. Financial aid at Pitzer is need-based and directly determined by a family’s income and assets. Changes to finances due to COVID-19 can be reviewed and assessed to determine aid eligibility. We highly encourage students to first request an appointment to discuss their circumstances with a financial aid counselor.
Will student employment be available for the 2021-22 academic year?
Yes. Available campus positions will be posted in Handshake: https://pitzer.joinhandshake.com/. All students should be able to log in using their Pitzer username and password. To find on-campus jobs in Handshake, select the “Jobs” tab, search for “Pitzer” in the search bar, and filter for “On-campus”. Students should read the job postings carefully and follow the application instructions. Some campus employers ask for students to submit application materials (resume, cover letter, etc.) through Handshake. Others request that students contact the supervisor directly, usually by e-mail. Please follow the stated application method.
An On-Campus Job Fair featuring Pitzer and consortium-based employers is scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 2, 3:30-5 p.m. PDT, location TBD.
NEW and IMPORTANT: As a part of seeking campus employment, students must complete the new Student Employment Information Form that is available at Student Employment Information Form. Students will upload the form in Handshake, particularly for jobs that gather applications directly through the Handshake platform, and/or will send it as an e-mail attachment to supervisors that request direct e-mail communication. Students should supply this form to ALL jobs to which they apply. Supervisors may also request other documents (resume, cover letter, etc.).
New Student Hires: Students who have not previously worked at Pitzer need to provide documents to verify their eligibility to work in the U.S. This usually entails providing Human Resources with original and unexpired I-9 documents. Original documents must be presented.
Updated 8/20/21
Will I receive work-study for the 2021-22 academic year?
Financial aid applicants will be considered for work-study this academic year. Returning students must complete all application requirements no later than August 31 to be considered for work-study. Work-study is need-based; eligibility will depend on financial need.
My family was financially impacted by COVID-19. Can I apply for financial aid?
Yes. Students not currently on aid who have been significantly impacted by COVID-19 are welcome to apply for financial aid. Financial aid at Pitzer is need-based and directly determined by a family’s income and assets. Changes to finances due to COVID-19 can be reviewed and assessed to determine aid eligibility. We highly encourage students to first request an appointment to discuss their circumstances with a financial aid counselor.
My family was financially impacted by COVID-19. Can I receive more financial aid?
Changes to finances due to COVID-19 can be reviewed to re-assess aid eligibility. Families should review the Financial Aid Appeal Application and upload any relevant documentation to IDOC.
Have already received aid package: We highly encourage students who have already received their aid package to first request an appointment to discuss their circumstances with a financial aid counselor.
Have not received aid package: Please visit your Student Portal to view any outstanding documents. Submit required documents along with Financial Aid Appeal Application and relevant documentation to IDOC.
Archived FAQs for Faculty and Staff from Spring 2022
Can faculty and staff eat at the dining hall and other food service venues on campus?
Pitzer food service venues: McConnell Dining Hall, Pit Stop, and Shakedown. Hours of operation will remain the same, and students, faculty, and staff may grab-and-go—take out their meals from McConnell in a green reusable box or paper to-go box.
To prioritize student access, faculty and staff were asked to avoid going to the dining hall between noon and 1 p.m. At this time, there is no 5C crossover dining for faculty and staff.
Please see the COVID Updates and Community Shifts message for more information.
Note: previously, Pitzer faculty and staff had resumed Pitzer McConnell, Pit Stop Café, and Shakedown dining on Monday, February 14.
