What classifies as Pacific Islander?

Pacific Islanders refer to those whose origins are the original peoples of Polynesia, Micronesia, and Melanesia. Polynesia includes Hawaii (Native Hawaiian), Samoa (Samoan), American Samoa (Samoan), Tokelau (Tokelauan), Tahiti (Tahitian), and Tonga (Tongan).

Should I fill out my demographics on common app?

The demographics section is optional. Typically, the only students I have complete this section in its entirety are those that come from an underrepresented group. If a student is a part of this demographic, letting the colleges know this information can be important in the admissions process.

Is Pacific Islander a race or ethnicity?

As an ethnic/racial term, it is used to describe the original peoples—inhabitants and diaspora—of any of the three major subregions of Oceania (Melanesia, Micronesia, and Polynesia).

Why would a college need the demographic information?

In the United States, colleges are required to (try to) collect demographic information about their applicants and attendees, as a condition for various types of federal funding and aid. The government uses this information to track the success of various underrepresented groups in higher education.

Is New Zealand Pacific Islander?

Auckland, New Zealand has the world’s largest concentration of urban Pacific Islanders living outside of their own countries, and is sometimes referred to as the “Polynesian capital of the world.” This came as result of how, during the 20th century and into the 21st century, the country saw a steady stream of …

Should I tell colleges my religion?

However, generally, there will be no reason for a college to discriminate on the basis of religion. Indeed, even parochial or faith-based schools often accept applicants from outside the faith. In short, listing your religion is unlikely to hurt your chances of admission in any way.