Principia works with the College Scholarship Service (CSS) in evaluating a student's need for assistance. This service offers an impartial, confidential evaluation based on information you provide on a financial aid PROFILE form, the primary form required when applying for aid at Principia College. Note: (Principia does not use the FAFSA)
In order for Principia to respond promptly to your individual need, you are also asked to complete the financial aid application process as described below. Unusual family circumstances that may not be covered on the PROFILE form — such as loss of employment or an unexpected financial loss or indebtedness — could also make a difference and can be described in a letter sent directly to the Financial Aid Office.
After you have completed the PROFILE and it has been evaluated by CSS, a "need analysis report" will be sent by CSS to our Financial Aid Office where it will be reviewed, along with the information you sent directly to Principia.
Since it takes up to three weeks for processing by CSS, the sooner you submit your PROFILE and Principia Application for Financial Aid, the sooner you will have a response. Principia's Director of Financial Aid, Tami Gavaletz, is happy to discuss your special circumstances and to answer your questions by telephone. She is also ready to help you understand the process and your role in it.
Financial Aid Process
While the Admissions decision is not based on your finances, your financial aid award is contingent upon your being admitted for enrollment. Therefore, submitting your financial aid application as soon as possible will enable the Financial Aid Office to process your application as soon as you've been admitted.
Financial Aid Process
1. Complete your College Scholarship Service (CSS) PROFILE online. It is best to complete the PROFILE after completion of your parents' and your most recent Federal income tax returns since that information is necessary to answer the questions.
For families with separate households, the custodial parent is responsible for completion of the CSS Profile. The noncustodial parent is responsible for completion of the Noncustodial Profile.
2. NEW: Each student must access Principia’s Self-Service Banner (SSB) to complete the Principia Application for Financial Aid. The application provides each student the opportunity to make his/her financial aid request and to sign our office’s financial aid agreement. Students can also track their application checklist and view their financial aid and scholarship award.
SSB Note: Click on 'Enter Secure Area' to sign in, and follow online prompts. In order to sign in, use your Principia Student ID (new students received their ID by the Admissions Office in an email when they started their application). Students should keep their ID and PIN secure. Upon enrollment you will need these to access your student billing, registration and other accounts. If you have questions about your ID or password, please contact your Admissions Counselor or the Admissions Office at 618.374.5181.
3. If possible, please electronically send your parents' and your most recent federal tax returns (Form 1040) to finaid@principia.edu. If you are unable to scan your documents, please fax or send them to Principia College Financial Aid, Elsah, IL 62028. Fax to 618.374.5906. For incoming freshman, you can send last year's tax returns for an estimated award.
All returning students must submit a thank you note for the aid they received the prior year. Please submit your thank you note through our Self-Service Banner online form.
When the Admissions Office notifies you of your acceptance to Principia, it will also inform the Financial Aid Office. Then, as soon as the completed applications for financial aid are processed, you will hear from the Director of Financial Aid about your financial aid award.
Our Financial Aid Office is always ready to show you that you really can afford a Principia College education.
Contact Information:
Office of Admissions and Financial Aid
Elsah, IL 62028
800.277.4648 ext. 2813
finaid@principia.edu
