Pninim is really not strict about things like dress code and lateness, and, I’m pretty sure they don’t make a big deal about electronics (I”m not sure about iPhones/SmartPhones). They expect respect, but they really give the impression that they care about the important stuff,and are not nit-picky. They are very hashfaka based, which is great if you’re a motivated learner in general. If you’re not, you could technically chill out the whole year, but they have AMAZING classing and the worlds best teachers and lessons to offer.
I visited Israel this past month, and went to check out pninim, and the girls made me feel comforrtable immediately. Rabbi Meisels was very easy going and kind, and it was really not a stressful interview at all. (Actually, he told me I could come during the interview.)
Uniforms only need to be worn during class, although even then, they are lenient with it. (i.e. if your skirt is a dark shade other than black, if your shirt isn’t all button down, even just two buttons or three…).
The school is completely not yeshivish. Be careful, though, not to listen to rumors, because some say they take “bad” girls, and when I went there, it was completely the opposite. Of course, every seminary and has a variety of levels, in terms of yidishkeit and stability, but the girls seemed very healthy, warm, and growing.
The workload is not heavy. There are barely and tests; like I said, very hashkafa based. They really just want each person to grow at their own pace.
I wasn’t there long enough to know, but it seemed Pninim had plenty of free time. I’m not sure what time curfew is.
If you go, I’ll meet you there!