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 17. 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 on-campus housing. Please be aware, though, that these rooms do not have air-conditioning. (Parents do not stay in the freshman houses with students.)

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 19th, at 2:00 p.m.

How do I register for NPO?
Online registration is open now, and ends August 13th. After August 13th, late registrations will be charged a $50 service fee. If Principia has not received your paid registration by August 13th, the $50 fee will be added to it–up to and including the day of registration. All NPO charges are non-refundable after 5:00 pm CST, Thursday, August 16th. After that, all cancellation refunds will be placed in your student’s Principia College account. Please call the NPO Coordinator at 800.277.4648, ext. 2804 or 618.374.5175 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: $12.00 and 16-and-under: $6.00. 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.