2017-2018 Catalog 
    
    Mar 19, 2024  
2017-2018 Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Financial Information


Kravis Center


Undergraduate College Expenses

Tuition

The tuition charge at Claremont McKenna College for the 2017-2018 academic year is $52,580. Tuition covers only a portion of the actual cost of the education each student receives. The College bears the additional cost through past gifts, now in use as endowments, and through current gifts. These additional resources in effect provide every student with a scholarship. Based on recent experience, tuition should be expected to increase every year due to growing costs. At the same time, CMC is committed to helping students who need financial aid through an extensive program of scholarships, grants, loans, and employment. The College reserves the right to change fees at any time.

Part-Time Student Tuition

Students carrying fewer than three courses per semester pay tuition of $8,763.33 per course, and $4,381.67 per one-half (0.5) course. These part-time student costs, for up to two-and-a-half (2.5) courses, also apply to CMC students who have received permission to study in absentia. The charge for three (3) or more courses in absentia is full tuition.

Summer Senior Thesis Tuition

CMC students may register to complete the senior thesis requirement over the summer in consultation with a faculty reader. The charge for a completing the senior thesis requirement in Summer 2018 is $3,650.

Room and Board

  • Residence Halls
    The charge for a double room in a CMC residence hall is $8,730 per student, per year. The charge for a single room is $9,830 for the academic year. The charge for a triple or quad room is $7,600. These rental charges cover only the period when classes are scheduled, and the residence halls are closed for occupation during winter break.
  • CMC Apartments
    The rental charges for the four-person, four-bedroom, two-bathroom configuration are $9,870 per student, per year. The charge for the two-person studio units is $9,830 per person, per year. The charge for the one-person studio unit is $9,870 per student, per year.
  • Board Plans
    Resident students may sign up for one of four meal plan options:
    • 16 meals/$200 Board Plus (per semester) for $7,490 per year
    • 14 meals/$140 Board Plus (per semester) for $7,110 per year
    • 12 meals/$120 Board Plus (per semester) for $6,740 per year
    • 8 meals/$80 Board Plus (per semester) for $6,280 per year

Board Plus dollars can be used to purchase additional meals during the semester at any dining hall at The Claremont Colleges, or to purchase food and beverage items at any of the snack bars at the Colleges that utilize a card reader. Students who commute may purchase meals as they choose. The CMC dining hall is closed during winter and spring breaks. See Guide to Student Life for further residential life policies.

Student Fees

Students are responsible for a variety of fees, including the following:

  • Student Activities Fee (ASCMC)
    Current students pay a student body fee of $245 per year; fees are used to support student activities.
  • Student Orientation Fee
    First time students pay an orientation fee of $500 in the year of entrance to the College; fees are used to support student orientation activities.
  • Off-Campus Students Fee
    Full-time students living off-campus pay a fee of $200 per year to contribute to the cost of maintaining college facilities that are not only used by on-campus students but also by those living off-campus (e.g. the Marian Miner Cook Athenaeum, Emett Student Center, Roberts Pavilion, McKenna Auditorium, etc.).
  • Vehicle Registration Fee
    All motor vehicles must be registered with Campus Safety during college registration, or within three days after the vehicle is brought to Claremont. The fee for vehicle registration is $75 per semester. With a valid registration, sophomores, juniors and seniors may park in designated CMC parking lots. Freshmen are not permitted to have cars on campus.
  • Laboratory and Other Course Fees
    Students taking courses with a laboratory are charged laboratory fees; some other courses also have fees. After the final date to enter courses, no course fees are refunded. Fees amounts are indicated individually in the online course schedule for courses with fees.
  • Library Processing Fee
    The Claremont Colleges Libraries charge a processing fee for lost library books. The fee is not refundable if a book is later returned.

Other Expenses

Actual costs for a year at CMC include expenses for books and supplies, clothing, travel, recreation, and incidentals. Generally, books cost about $900 per year; other expenses vary considerably from student to student, but $1,200 is adequate for most students.

Insurance

All students are required to carry health insurance. Information about insurance expectations is provided to all students through the student portal and is available from the Office of the Dean of Students. An accident and sickness medical policy is available to all full-time students to protect them against major costs. It is designed to supplement care provided by Student Health Services, which would be the primary care provider; it includes benefits for accidental injuries, hospitalization, surgery, doctors’ visits in the hospital, emergency care, and ambulance.

The College assumes no responsibility for loss or damage to students’ personal property; private coverage is advised.

Graduate School Expenses

The information on undergraduate expenses, scholarships, and financial aid does not apply to the graduate students enrolled at CMC.

Graduate Student Tuition

The tuition charge for the Master of Arts in Finance program is $58,267 for the one-year program.

Graduate Student Fees and Other Expenses

  • Off-Campus Students Fee
    Graduate students live off-campus and pay a fee of $200 per year to contribute to the cost of maintaining college facilities that are not only used by on-campus students but also by those living off-campus (e.g. the Marian Miner Cook Athenaeum, Emett Student Center, Roberts Pavilion, McKenna Auditorium, etc.).
  • Vehicle Registration Fee
    All motor vehicles must be registered with Campus Safety during college registration, or within three days after the vehicle is brought to Claremont. The fee for vehicle registration is $150 for one year. With a valid registration, graduate students may park in designated CMC parking lots.

 

Other Financial Information for Undergraduate Students

Payment Options

  • Electronic Check (highly recommended)
    The preferred payment option is to make an electronic check (ACH) payment by accessing the Claremont McKenna College online student account system. Authorization for other interested parties to review and make payments on behalf of a student’s account may be granted directly by the student from within the system. No service fees are charged for electronic check payments. Be sure to follow the instructions and carefully input your bank’s routing number and your checking or savings account number. DO NOT use your debit or credit card number.
  • Paper Checks Sent via Traditional Mail
    Payment may also be made by sending paper checks via traditional mail to be delivered by the U.S. Postal Service to the address below. Include the student identification number in the memo line of all paper check payments. No cash payments will be accepted at this address.

    Claremont McKenna College
    PO Box 848142
    Los Angeles, CA 90084-8142
     
  • Paper Checks Sent via Overnight Courier (FedEx, UPS, DHL, etc.)
    Paper checks may also be sent via overnight courier to the address below. Include the student identification number in the memo line of all paper check payments. No cash payments will be accepted at this address.

    Wells Fargo Lockbox E20001-049
    Claremont McKenna College
    3440 Flair Drive
    El Monte, CA 91731
     
  • Wires (International payments)
    Payment can also be made by wire transfer through Flywire.  Go to flywire.com, choose Claremont McKenna College, and follow the steps

Monthly Payment Plan

Annual charges may be paid in 8 monthly installments (due on the 20th of August, September, October, and November for the fall semester and on the 20th of January, February, March, and April for the spring semester). The service charge for the monthly payment plan is $100 per semester. This payment privilege may be revoked for cause.

Due Dates and Delinquent Accounts

Payments are due on the 20th of each month. Delinquent accounts are subject to late charges and financial holds. A 1% late fee will be applied on the outstanding balance as of the last day of every month following the tuition due date.  Delinquent payments may cause the suspension of dining hall, residence, and classroom privileges. In the event of repeated failure to make payments on schedule, the privilege of deferred payments under a Payment Plan will be withdrawn. Students who have outstanding charges at the end of a semester may have grades and transcripts withheld until all bills have been paid. A financial hold will be placed on the account and the student will not be allowed to register for the following semester.

Refunds

Students who withdraw during the semester may be eligible for refunds, depending upon the time of the withdrawal. Students must give written notification to the registrar of their decision to withdraw and complete the withdrawal procedures in order to be eligible for any refunds.

Tuition, student body fees, board charges, scholarships, and grants will be prorated based on the number of days a student is registered at CMC, up to the sixty percent point of the semester. After that point, a student is no longer eligible for refunds. Room charges will not be prorated unless a new student occupant is immediately available.

Students suspended or dismissed from the College for disciplinary reasons during the semester receive no refunds.

Tuition insurance is available through Allianz Tuition Insurance.  To get a quote or learn more about tuition insurance, call 1.888.427.5045 or visit allianztuitioninsurance.com

Financing Off-Campus Study

  • Study Abroad
    CMC students participating in study abroad or international exchange programs are charged CMC tuition, room, and board fees. The ASCMC fee is not charged. CMC pays the study abroad or international exchange program tuition and fees, including room and board. CMC provides a meal allowance for students participating in programs which do not include meals. CMC also provides a travel allowance toward the cost of the round-trip airline ticket from Los Angeles to the study abroad destination. An allowance for local transportation and for international health insurance is also frequently provided as determined by program needs.

    Study abroad participants must personally pay for passport and visa fees, cost of medical examinations and immunizations, and refundable security/damage deposits. On site, students pay for personal needs such as books, supplies, clothing, medical charges, laundry, postage, recreation, entertainment, phone bills, snacks, and weekend or holiday travel. These costs vary considerably from site to site, and are likely to be higher than in Claremont. Students receiving financial aid will continue to receive their full CMC package during their semester off-campus. Scholarships for study abroad are listed below.
     
  • Washington, D.C. Program
    CMC students participating in the College’s Washington Program continue to pay CMC tuition and the ASCMC fee to cover the costs of the academic program, special events, field trips, and transportation. Expenses for housing, meals, health insurance, and local transportation are the responsibility of the participants. Students receiving financial aid continue to receive state and federal aid, as well as private and merit scholarships. Students with CMC grants-in-aid will also continue to receive their grants. For students on the Washington Program, the total financial aid package received will include a moderate increase in aid to compensate students for the higher cost of living in Washington, D.C.
     
  • Silicon Valley Program
    CMC students participating in the College’s Silicon Valley Program continue to pay CMC tuition, room, and the ASCMC fee to cover the costs of the academic program, special events, field trips, and transportation. Expenses for meals, health insurance, and local transportation are the responsibility of the participants. Students receiving financial aid continue to receive state and federal aid, as well as private and merit scholarships. Students with CMC grants-in-aid will also continue to receive their grants.
     
  • U.S. Exchange Programs
    CMC students participating in U.S. exchange programs pay CMC tuition, room and board, and student body fee. Students receiving financial aid will continue to receive their full CMC package during their semester off-campus. Participants are responsible for transportation expenses to the program.

Financial Aid for Undergraduate Students

Claremont McKenna College coordinates a comprehensive program of scholarships, grants, loans, and student employment with funds from its own resources, federal and state governments, and other sources. Approximately half of CMC students receive aid to help meet their expenses.

Financial aid is awarded in the form of grants, student employment, or some combination of these sources. The combined aid awarded each student is called a “package.”

Students with questions about financial aid should first consult a financial aid officer; appeals may be taken to the Director of Financial Aid, Associate Vice President/Dean of Admission & Financial Aid, chair of the Committee on Admission and Financial Aid, the Committee itself, and, finally, to the President.

Students applying for the Master of Arts in Finance program should consult the Director of Admission Officer for the Master of Arts program for details on available financial support. The information provided in this section does not apply to graduate students.

Eligibility

To be eligible for federal financial aid, students must:

  • have demonstrated financial need
  • be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
  • make satisfactory academic progress
  • be enrolled as a CMC student
  • register with the Selective Service, if required
  • sign a statement of educational purpose/certification statement on refunds and default

Institutional aid eligibility varies according to the program (i.e. grants, college loans, etc.); in most cases, students must meet the above standards to receive college aid.

  • Financial Need
    The total amount of aid awarded to a student is based upon need; in calculating that amount, all financial factors in the candidate’s family situation are considered. The financial need of all recipients is reviewed each year and may be revised depending on family financial circumstances; students and parents must apply annually for financial aid.

    Financial need is based on the cost of a CMC education, minus a student’s expected family contribution. Family contribution is calculated from the information provided by students and parents on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the College Scholarship Service (CSS) Financial Aid PROFILE. Federal aid eligibility is calculated by a formula established by Congress. CMC uses a more in-depth formula to establish family contributions for a student’s CMC institutional aid.
     
  • Satisfactory Academic Progress
    Continuing eligibility for financial aid requires that students make satisfactory progress toward a degree. To do so, they must meet the following minimum requirements:
    • Complete at least three (3) full courses per semester
    • Not be on probation for more than two (2) consecutive semesters
    • Maintain at least a cumulative grade point average of C (6.00) or have academic standing consistent with the institution’s requirements
    • Complete the following minimum cumulative number of courses toward the degree:
  CLASS COURSES
  First year
Second year
Third year
7
15
23

Students who withdraw from courses, either during the semester or retroactively, are not making satisfactory progress if they complete less than three (3) courses per semester. Students will not receive credit for incomplete courses until all work has been completed and a final grade posted by the registrar. Credit for repeated courses is granted only if the student previously received a grade of F.

Length of Financial Aid

First-time new students may receive financial aid for up to eight (8) semesters. Returning students who initially did not receive any financial aid but find themselves in need because of a change in family circumstances are encouraged to contact the Office of Financial Aid to explore eligibility. However, students who did not apply for or did not receive need-based financial aid previously at CMC are not guaranteed they will receive financial aid or be considered for financial aid in the next academic year. Each year financial aid consideration will be determined based on the availability of funds.

Eligibility for transfer students is determined by their academic classification at entry and their expected graduation date. The CMC registrar determines which transfer courses are acceptable toward CMC’s degree program and determines the number of remaining semesters for which aid may be offered.

Student Contributions

Students with upper class standing are expected to contribute more towards their expenses than underclass students, because a student’s earning power presumably increases as they progress toward their degree.

Off-Campus Students

Undergraduate students living off-campus may have credit balances on their account. These balances are not disbursed until funds creating the balance (a student grant, for example) are received and processed.

Financial Aid and Study Abroad

Students studying abroad through a CMC approved program who receive financial aid will continue to receive all financial aid while abroad, including state and federal aid, as well as private and merit scholarships. Students with CMC grants-in-aid continue to receive their grants.

California Residents and Cal Grants

CMC requires all students who are California residents to apply for a Cal Grant. To be considered, students must submit a GPA Verification Form certified by a high school or college official no later than March 2; it must be submitted directly to the California Student Aid Commission.

International Students

Although the College occasionally gives financial assistance to international students, it rarely provides them with sufficient funds to cover all expenses. Foreign students who cannot carry a substantial portion of their expenses should not apply to CMC. Merit or need-based financial aid is not available after enrollment.

Federal Regulations and the Academic Year

For federal financial regulations, the academic year consists of two semesters, both 16 weeks in length. Classes begin on a Tuesday in both the fall semester and the spring semester, and the semesters end with the last day of final exams. Students are expected to complete an average of four (4) courses per semester, which is the equivalent of 16 semester units per term, in order to maintain their eligibility for financial aid.

The fall semester includes partial weeks at the beginning of the term and during fall break. Furthermore, because classes meet three days prior to Thanksgiving break, that week also counts toward the 16 week fall semester. The spring semester begins the third week in January following a winter break. The spring semester is 16 weeks in length, not including the week of spring break.

Financial Aid Applications

CMC strongly recommends early application for financial aid; students who apply late for financial aid are not guaranteed aid even though they already have been admitted. For further information, contact the Office of Financial Aid.

Application forms for grants, scholarships, and loans are available in the Office of Financial Aid.

New Students

New students admitted for the fall semester (freshmen and transfers) who have demonstrated financial need and applied for financial aid by the deadlines, are awarded aid based on demonstrated need. While CMC strives to meet each student’s full demonstrated need, late applicants may not receive scholarships or grants, because of funding caps and the needs of “on time” applicants. Candidates should pay close attention to the deadlines for financial aid applications, which may not be the same as admission deadlines.

All Regular Decision freshmen candidates who wish to apply for financial aid must complete and submit the following two forms:

  • Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Form - File by January 5
    This form must be submitted directly to the Department of Eudcation Central Processor. Be sure to enter CMC’s institutional code 001170 in the appropriate place on the form.
  • CSS Profile Form - File by January 5
    This form must be submitted to the College Board. CMC’s CSS code is #4054 and must be listed on the Profile application. Further information is available from your high school guidance counselors or the CMC Office Admission and Financial Aid.

    Early Decision (ED) candidates may apply for either Early Decision I or II. Financial aid applicants must file a CSS Profile by November 1 for ED I or January 5 for ED II.

    Transfer candidates for either fall or spring are only eligible for financial aid if they have submitted both the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Form, and the CSS Profile form by November 1 for fall candidates and March 1 for spring candidates.

Returning Students

Returning students must reapply for financial aid for the next academic year by completing and sending the FAFSA and the CSS Profile by March 2. CMC distributes renewal application information to all students receiving some form of financial aid in October when the applications are available. If a student does not receive renewal application information, it is the student’s responsibility to contact the Office of Financial Aid to obtain the information. The Office of Financial Aid makes every effort to communicate about application deadlines and other requirements throughout the year.

Notification

Financial aid award letters are usually sent to new CMC students with the letter of admission, as long as the student has filed the appropriate forms by the required deadline. CMC is diligent in trying to help students make a commitment decision by providing financial aid information as soon as possible. Returning students are notified of their renewal awards by mid-May.

Types of Financial Aid

Grants

  • CMC College Grants
    CMC uses gifts given to the College by individuals and organizations to fund College Grants and help students meet their college costs. Grants are usually available to students who demonstrate a need and apply for financial aid.
  • Cal Grants
    The California Student Aid Commission awards Cal Grants on the basis of academic ability and financial need. CMC requires all students who are California residents and graduated from a California high school to apply for a Cal Grant their high school senior year.  Your high school must certify and submit a GPA Verification Form directly to the California Student Aid Commission.
  • Pell Grants
    Federal Pell Grants are a direct grant from the federal government to students.
  • Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG)
    FSEOG are awarded to CMC by the federal government to aid exceptionally needy students. Individual FSEOG grants vary in amount, and are awarded according to CMC’s packaging policies.
  • Veterans Benefits/ Post-9/11 GI Bill Yellow Ribbon Program
    Eligible CMC students may receive education benefits from the U. S. Department of Veterans Affairs.  Up to 8 students at CMC are eligible to receive Yellow Ribbon funding.  Only Veterans entitled to the maximum benefit rate, as determined by service requirements, or their designated transferees may receive this funding.  The maximum CMC contribution per student per year for Yellow Ribbon recipients is $15,000, which is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

Loans

  • Direct Loans
    The William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program offers a variety of low-interest federal loans to help students pay for college. These loans are processed through and insured by the federal government. These loans have an adjustable interest rate that changes on July 1 each year. Six months after graduation or withdrawal, student borrowers begin repayment in quarterly installments. Postponement of repayment is available for graduate studies, military service, and other approved circumstances.
  • Subsidized Federal Direct Loans are for students who demonstrate financial need; the funds are transmitted electronically or mailed to the College and released in two or more payments. A student must demonstrate need as determined by the College.
  • Unsubsidized Federal Direct Loans also are available; students may borrow within the same limit and interest rate terms as the subsidized program. With the exception of demonstrating financial need, borrowers must meet all eligibility criteria for financial aid programs. Family income does not affect loan eligibility or disqualify borrowers from obtaining an unsubsidized loan. Although interest rates are the same as for subsidized loans, the federal government does not pay interest on these loans while borrowers are enrolled in school or in deferment; interest payments begin immediately after the loan is fully disbursed, or may be added to the principal balance.
  • Federal Perkins Loans
    Federal Perkins Loans are low-interest (5 percent) loans for students with exceptional financial need. They are made through CMC’s Financial Aid Office, and CMC is the lender. Interest accrual and repayment of principal does not begin until nine months after graduation or withdrawal. Postponement of principal and interest payments is available for graduate studies, military service, and other approved circumstances.

Check the financial aid website for information on federal annual student loan limits.

  • College Student Loans
    College Student Loans also are available and CMC uses these funds when needed to supplement federal programs. College loan funds may carry interest, and monthly repayment of the principal begins six months after students leave CMC, graduate, or cease enrollment on at least a half-time basis. CMC may postpone repayment for full-time graduate study.
  • Federal PLUS Loans
    Federal PLUS Loans are federally-sponsored loans for parents who wish to borrow on behalf of their dependent children enrolled at least half-time in college. The loan must be repaid in full with interest by the parent-borrower. Like Federal Direct Loans, these loans are made by a bank, credit union, or savings and loan association. These loans have an adjustable interest rate that changes on July 1 every year. PLUS loans are disbursed in two or more payments and are mailed to the College.

Student Employment

Many students earn part of their college expenses through student employment, funded by the College and the Federal Work-Study program. On-campus jobs are available in such places as the Athenaeum, the Athletic department, the Claremont Colleges Library, and in a number of academic and administrative offices, as well as the research institutes. Federal College Work Study is a financial aid program that enables CMC to place eligible students in on- or off-campus jobs funded by both the federal program and CMC. Students must apply for financial assistance each year and meet federal eligibility requirements.

Non-Work Study Employment is also available on campus; it is funded through on-campus work study funding and department budgets. All positions are filled directly through the department. Jobs are also available off-campus in Claremont and nearby communities. Access to all on- and off-campus jobs is available through the online database Handshake, which is managed by Career Services.

Disbursement of Financial Aid Funds

Grants, scholarships, and loans are generally disbursed in two installments annually and are credited directly to the student’s account. Federal Work Study and other student employment earnings are paid bi-weekly directly to the student.

Financial Aid Refund Policies

If a student who receives federal aid withdraws before the end of the semester, the College uses the formula mandated by the federal Department of Education to return these funds. Federal funds must be returned in the following order:

  • Unsubsidized Direct Loan
  • Subsidized Direct Loan
  • Perkins Loan
  • PLUS
  • Pell Grant
  • Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
  • Other Federal Title IV Programs

Work Study is not included in the calculation of a refund.

Short Term Loans

Short term loans are available to students, interest-free, regardless of financial need, when faced with unexpected emergencies. Repayment is required within a short period of time; repayment schedules are established with each student on an individual basis, contingent on their unique circumstances. These funds are made available through the Associated Students CMC Loan Fund or the Student Emergency Loan Fund.

Scholarships

Scholarship Programs for Undergraduate Students

Scholar Communities

The Claremont McKenna College (CMC) Scholar Communities Program is comprised of several individual experiential learning communities created to support students in a variety of disciplines and fields. The Program underscores the powerful role that self-exploration and new experiences play in every undergraduate’s life as they plan for the future. Our Scholar Communities program provides financial support for incoming students through:

  • Generous need-based aid for those who qualify for financial aid.
  • A wide range of merit awards, some in part also need-based, for those who satisfy the objectives of the specific program.
  • Sponsored summer experiences, including first-year internships and other fellowship opportunities during the academic year.

    For more information, please visit the Scholar Communities Program website. https://www.cmc.edu/student-imperative/scholar-communities#records
     
  • Dreier Roundtable Scholar Award (Washington Program)
    Students who have an interest in public service and governmental studies with the promise for a future career in public policy will be considered for the Dreier Roundtable Scholar Award of $3,000. The scholarship is awarded by the selection committee for the internship program; no application required.

  • Frank Seaver Leadership Scholarship
    The Frank Seaver Leadership Scholarship is a renewable full-tuition scholarship given to approximately four or more entering freshmen every year. This scholarship is awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional promise to become leaders intent on making a positive impact on the world. All application and supporting credentials must be postmarked by December 1.

    Students selected will receive a merit scholarship equal to full tuition (students and their families are responsible for room and board costs as well as individual personal expenses). Additionally, two monetary stipends of $4,000 each will be granted to each Seaver Scholar to use in the pursuit of summer leadership development opportunities such as internships, community service, or academic travel. Throughout their time at CMC, Seaver Scholars will be expected to participate in various small group enrichment programs, provided with the intention to further developing their leadership potential.

    Recipients of the McKenna Achievement Award Merit Scholarship will be invited to an on-campus interview in mid-April to be considered for the Frank Seaver Leadership Scholarship. 

    Candidates who are selected will be notified by the Office of Admission and Financial Aid in mid-April.
  • Records Familty Game Changer Scholars

    The Records Family established the Game Changers Fund to support the recruitment of talented students from a diverse range of socio-economic backgrounds with a focus on enhanced need-based aid or substantial merit aid. The recipients of the Records scholarship demonstrate the personal characteristics of perseverance, determination, fortitude, and courage. Students selected to be Records Family Scholars will show excellence in both intellectual and fortitude inside and outside the classroom.

    - Applicants must demonstrate perseverance, determination, fortitude, courage and academic excellence.
    - Funding support for an internship, research or academic travel immediately following the first year.
    - Up to six entering first-year students yearly.

  • McKenna Achievement Award Merit Scholarship
    The McKenna Achievement Award is a renewable $15,000 scholarship given to approximately 15 entering freshmen every year. Students who wish to be considered must submit their Common Application on or before December 1.

    Candidates who are selected will be notified by the Office of Admission and Financial Aid at the same time they receive their admission notification letter.

    Finalists for the McKenna Achievement Awards are chosen from among all candidates for admission who have straight A grades or nearly straight A grades in high school, whose SAT scores are 700 or higher in each section, or whose ACT composite score is 33 or higher, and who have significant extracurricular achievement.

    These awards are made possible through the special assistance of the H.N. & Frances C. Berger Foundation, the Donald C. McKenna Foundation, Harris and Ann Seed, Shirley Smith Peschka, the Alice Tweed Tuohy Foundation, and the Summit Foundation. The awards are:
    • Berger Scholarships
    • McKenna Achievement Awards
    • Seed Scholarships
    • Tuohy Honor Scholarships
    • Summit Scholarships

Academic scholarships are awarded with the expectation that recipients will perform academically at a level commensurate with their ability. To remain eligible for McKenna Achievement Awards Program scholarships, students must maintain a GPA of B (9.00) or higher and make satisfactory progress towards the degree. The two most recent consecutive semesters are used to determine if a student has met these standards. If a student fails to meet these requirements, the scholarship is suspended until the requirements are met.

  • Interdisciplinary Science Scholarship (ISS)
    A grant from The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation funds the Interdisciplinary Science Scholarship (ISS), providing full-tuition scholarships for 15 to 20 entering freshmen every year. Designed for students interested in pursuing both a science and non-science double or dual major while at CMC, students will be asked to explore the idea of science leadership via a dual or double major such as government-biology, international relations-physics, chemistry-Spanish or one of a host of other possible combinations available within CMC’s comprehensive curriculum.

    Specifically, the scholarship awards will be focused on outstanding students from lower-income households. ISS Scholars will be selected based on financial need, academic excellence, leadership potential, and passion for science. They will be required to graduate with a dual or double major in a science and non-science discipline.

    Students who wish to be considered for the ISS scholarship should apply to CMC by submitting the Common Application. Students should be sure to indicate intended majors in both a science and non-science discipline. In addition, students should fill out the FAFSA and College Scholarship Service PROFILE.
  • Kravis Scholars

    The establishment of the Kravis Scholars Fund by Henry Kravis ‘67 provides generous need-based financial aid assistance to under-served and first-generation students, who enroll at Claremont McKenna. Students receive a summer sponsored internship immediately after their first-year in college. Special mentorship and support is provided throughout their college careers.

    - Applicants must be first-generation in their family to go to college,  from under-served backgrounds, and have demonstrated financial need.
    - Will be provided funding support for an internship, research or academic travel during summer immediately following the first year. Provided faculty mentorship.
    - Up to six entering first-year students are selected  annually.

  • The Wagener Family Awards for Sophomore Study Abroad (Study Abroad)
    Thanks to the generosity of CMC Trustee Mr. Shaw Wagener ‘81, CMC students who receive need-based financial aid and are studying abroad during the second semester of their sophomore year in non-English speaking destinations can apply for $2,500 towards their international experience. Eligible students apply through the Office of Off-Campus Study after they are approved for study abroad by CMC.
     
  • QuestBridge
    CMC is a partner with QuestBridge, a national non-profit program that links bright, motivated low-income students with educational and scholarship opportunities at some of the nation’s best colleges. To learn more visit http://www.questbridge.org/
     
  • National Merit Scholarships
    Each year, CMC sponsors several National Merit Scholarships and grants awards of $1,000 or $2,000. National Merit Scholarships are offered in addition to any aid based on need, with the exception of CMC-sponsored National Merit Scholarships. In some cases, other College grant aid may be reduced to coordinate with California State Grants and Federal Programs.
  • Reserve Officer Training Corps Scholarships (ROTC)
    Army Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) Scholarships are available to qualified applicants, including entering freshmen.

    Students may compete for four-year ROTC scholarships while in their junior and senior year of high school (early and regular decision cycle). The deadline for the on line application for ROTC scholarships is December 1. After December 1 and before the start of the College’s fall semester, applicants can still apply directly to the Department of Military Science and Leadership. Each year, recipients receive full tuition scholarship from the Army and a full room-and-board grant from CMC, $1,200 for books, and a tiered tax-free stipend ranging from $350 to $500 per month.

    Students on campus may also compete for three-and-a-half, three-, and two-year scholarships. Like the high school scholarships, these scholarships provide full tuition, books, the tiered tax-free stipend, and full room and board.

    Qualified students can enroll in Army ROTC at any point in their college careers, if they have at least two full years of full-time academic coursework remaining. Participation in the basic course (freshman/sophomore years) carries no military obligation, except for scholarship students. Students normally sign contracts in the fall semester of their junior year. Service obligation is four years of active duty or eight years of reserve duty. Students may apply for a guaranteed reserve forces duty, either scholarship or non-scholarship. Graduate students may also participate in ROTC as long as they remain in full-time status and have two years remaining at their graduate institutions. Education delays are available to complete advanced schooling, usually in medical, dental, or law school.

    Students with prior service time, prior ROTC training, or reserve training may qualify for immediate advanced program placement. Selected students also may participate in a reserve or national guard unit while in ROTC, drawing pay from both.

    All questions about Army ROTC should be directed to the Military Science and Leadership Department, Bauer Center South, room 101, (909) 621-8102.
     
  • Margaret Martin Brock Internship Award (Washington Program)
    The Margaret Martin Brock Internship Fund is an endowed fund made available to supplement general expenses each semester for two students who participate in the Washington Program. This scholarship is awarded by the selection committee for the internship program. No application is required.
  • The Mary and Richard Butler Award (Study Abroad)
    Deeply committed to global awareness, CMC Trustee Richard Butler and his wife, Mary Butler, have generously provided funding for CMC students participating in a study abroad program. These awards of up to $2,500 each include the named grants of longtime advocates for students learning abroad.  The advocates are CMC faculty emeritus Dr. P. Edward Haley, and current faculty members Dr. Marcos Massoud and Dr. Jonathan Petropoulos. The purpose of these awards is to help students defray study abroad expenses; to facilitate their semester of study in countries around the world; to take advantage of these rewarding opportunities; and to explore cultural understanding through personal experiences in the host culture. Eligible students apply through the Office of Off-Campus Study after they are approved for study abroad by CMC.
  • The Asia Financial Group Exchange with the Chinese University of Hong Kong (Study Abroad)
    The Asia Financial Group has provided funding for two $2,500 semester merit scholarships per year for CMC students interested in studying at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. Students approved for study at the Chinese University of Hong Kong are automatically entered for this scholarship through the Office of Off-Campus Study. The grant will be credited toward academic expenses for the program.
  • Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship (Study Abroad)
    The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship provides grants for U.S. undergraduate students of limited financial means. Students must be a federal Pell Grant recipient at time of application and during the study abroad academic term. Contact the Office of Off-Campus Study for more information.
  • National Security Exchange program (NSEP) David L. Boren Undergraduate Merit Scholarships (Study Abroad)
    NSEP Boren Scholarships provide support to U.S. undergraduate students pursuing the study of languages and cultures currently underrepresented in study abroad and critical to U.S. national security. These merit scholarships for students with financial need provide up to $10,000 for a semester of study abroad through CMC ($20,000 for a full academic year).

National Scholarships and Fellowships

CMC students have been awarded some of the most prestigious scholarships and fellowships in the nation, including the Churchill, Freeman, Fulbright, Goldwater, Marshall, Mellon, National Science Foundation, Rhodes, Rotary, Soros, and Truman awards. Many programs require nomination and/or selection by the College and Designated faculty members serve as program advisors to assist students with the application and, where appropriate, interview process. The majority of these programs offer funding for students after graduation but a number provide funding for undergraduates. Applications for these programs are very competitive and the process is time-consuming. Interested students must start the application process well before the published program deadline dates.

General information sessions as well as program specific information sessions are held at the beginning of the fall semester and during the spring semester. Further information is available from the Center for Global Education.

Scholarship Programs for Graduate Students

Significant scholarship funding is available for students participating in the Master of Arts in Finance  program. Scholarships are determined as part of the admission process to the program.

Undergraduate Scholarships and Grant Funds

CMC supports a comprehensive scholarship and grant fund from its own general institutional resources. In addition, numerous donors have established several hundred scholarships to fund CMC grants. These funds are awarded based on specific donor preferences. To learn more about specific awards, contact the Office of Financial Aid. Students must complete the financial aid application process to be considered for these scholarships and grants. 

Funds provided by donor gifts include Alumni Fund Annual Scholarships.  Additional scholarships include a number of Endowed Scholarships.