What is the advantage of attending NPO?
Over the years parents have found that NPO has given them a better understanding of and appreciation for Principia’s educational mission and character education goals. Even veteran Principia parents say that they are delighted to learn more about Principia’s unique community and its strong academic programs. We’ve also discovered that students really enjoy sharing their introduction to Principia with their parents.

When does NPO officially start—and what is the best time to arrive?
Arrival time for NPO is 8:00 am to 1:30 pm on Friday, August 19. Students are expected to be on campus by 1:30 pm; all students and parents must check in at the Admissions Office by this point. You will want to give yourselves plenty of time to unpack, have breakfast and/or lunch, and get settled in before the NPO Welcome Meeting at 4:00 pm (please note: attendance at this event is mandatory). If you plan to arrive in the area on Thursday, please make arrangements to stay in local off-campus lodging Thursday night. (On-campus lodging will not be available until Friday.)

Can we stay on campus during NPO?
Yes, parents and other family members are encouraged to stay in our houses. Please be aware, though, that these rooms do not have air-conditioning. (Parents do not stay in the freshman houses with students.)

Are off-campus accommodations available?
Yes, we recommend searching Google for accommodations in Elsah, Grafton, Alton, and Jerseyville. Or you can access our accommodations list. However, you will still need to register for the off-campus package, "Plan B", to sign up for the weekend.

What is the price for NPO?
The price for the on-campus package, "Plan A", is $180 for one adult guest staying in either a single or double-occupancy room, and $130 for each additional adult (limit 4). This price includes housing, all meals, linens, and weekend activities. The price for each family member 16 and under staying in an adult’s room is $100 for the weekend and includes all meals. The other option, "Plan B," offers the following prices for those electing to stay off campus: all programs and all meals--$115 per person, $50 for each child 16 and under.

If my student is an athlete, is his or her schedule the same as other new students?
Students participating in a fall sports camp have a special schedule during NPO. Please call the Athletic Office at 618.374.5024 for more information and to check with the coaches.

What should I bring if I’m staying on campus during NPO?
You will need an alarm clock, comfortable walking shoes, toiletries, and comfortable clothing for hot weather. You will be provided with bed and bathroom linens, soap bars, fans, and lamps. You may also want to bring bug spray.

When does NPO officially end?
Check out time from the residence houses is Sunday, August 21st, at 2:00 p.m.

How do I register for NPO?
Online registration at: www.principiacollegenpo.com begins June 1st and ends August 5th. After August 5th, late registrations will be charged a $50 service fee. If Principia has not received your paid registration by Aug. 5th, the $50 fee will be added to it–up to and including the day of registration. Please call the NPO Coordinator at 800.277.4648, ext. 2812 or 618.374.5628 to register by phone if registering late.

Is there room for guests at the Welcome Dinner?
This is a ticket-only event. Depending upon availability, there will be space for those not registered for NPO. The prices for extra tickets are: Adult: $17.00 and 16-and-under: $8.00. Tickets can be purchased at the dinner. Please note that child-care is not provided during NPO and all activities are geared towards college students and their parents.

Is the Principia Guest House available?
There is limited availability and it is on a first come - first-served basis.

What services will be open during NPO weekend?
All offices, including Admissions & Financial Aid, Advising, Registrar, Campus Security, Student Employment, Dining Services, Mail & Copy Services, and Student Life, are open on Friday along with the bookstore. A few offices are open on Saturday. The fitness center, pool, tennis courts and weight rooms are also available all weekend.

Will I have time to take my student into town to buy necessities?
Yes, there will be opportunities on Friday and Saturday to make trips to Alton or Jerseyville (each about 10 miles away). Target and Wal-Mart are in Alton, and Wal-Mart is in Jerseyville.