Claremont McKenna College

Washington Program: Application

Forms

The application process reflects the character of the Washington program. It is a learning process that will challenge students to exhibit initiative, become self-reliant, and display their strong academic abilities. For these reasons, students must be on campus during the semester of application in order to apply and should regard the semester of application as the equivalent of taking a half-credit course overload.

  

Application Requirements
  • a completed application form (with required statements)
  • a resume
  • an official transcript (Pomona, Scripps, Pitzer & HMC); CMC students give Permission to obtain an unofficial transcript by signing the application form
  • a letter of recommendation from a faculty member on letterhead
  • Dean of Students' recommendation
  • a short essay explaining one's reasons for applying to the Washington Program and suggesting where one might be interested in interning

Once students commit to participating in the Washington Program, CMC considers them to be obligated. Any student who withdraws his acceptance to the Program, therefore, will pay a $350 withdrawal fee. Furthermore, failure to attend Orientation I meeting is tantamount to withdrawal from the program. Pomona applicants must also complete in full the Plan for Graduation and a Pomona/CMC Form signed by Professor Worthington. Pitzer and Scripps applicants must follow the guidelines from External Studies and Off Campus Study at their respective home school, as well as complete a CMC application.

Students who intend to also study abroad as part of their academic plan, must do so the semester after the Washington Program. CMC students are subject to a special study abroad application deadline if they go first to Washington and must attend a study abroad orientation before leaving campus. Pomona students planning to study abroad following their semester in D.C. are strongly advised to complete their study abroad application concurrently with their Washington Program application and should contact the Office of Study Abroad in Sumner Hall.

SELECTION PROCESS

The selection committee takes into consideration academic preparation, writing and analytical skills, maturity and ability to succeed on The Washington Program.

Each applicant undergoes a personal interview that begins with the applicant answering the question: Why do you want to go to Washington? Following the interview, which plays a crucial role in the application process, students will receive prompt notice of their acceptance or rejection.

Please note that arranging your own internship in Washington does not guarantee you a place in the Program.