When do the academic semesters for 2012–2013 begin and end?

*Please be sure to arrange travel plans so that you’re on campus for the start of classes.

When can I make flight reservations to return home after exams?

Find out when your last final exam is scheduled. Exam times are determined by the hour the course meets during the semester. You may leave campus after your finals are completed.

When do I find out what house I'm in?

New students should receive a letter by the end of July. 

Can I request a house?

Not for freshmen housing. The Freshman Housing Director and Freshman Resident Counselors make the housing assignments to balance both freshman houses. 

OSL will consider requests from transfer students going into upper-class housing but does not guarantee those placements. Assignments are made based on space availability.

When will I find out who my roommate is? Can I request one?

You will find out who your roommate is when you arrive. 

I’m coming for sports camp and my parents are coming for NPO. What sort of schedule will I have during NPO?

Please call the Athletic Office at 618.374.5024 regarding the athletes’ special schedule during NPO.

Should I get a credit/debit card or bank account near Principia?

Principia has an ATM machine in the main building (Howard Center) that accepts most bank cards, so local accounts are not necessary. The ATM machine does not charge a service fee, though your bank might.  Students may apply for a local bank account if they prefer. 

What size are twin extra-long bed sheets?

They’re twin-size sheets, but longer. You can get them at department stores such as Sears, Target and JC Penney.

Can I bring my car?

Any student can have a vehicle (car, truck, motorcycle, moped, Goped, motorized scooter, or Segway) on campus if they register it with Campus Security and abide by campus rules. 

Can I wait to purchase my necessities until I arrive on campus?

Basic necessities are available at Target, Walmart and Kmart. They are all located within 20 minutes of campus. Supplementary items are available through the College Bookstore.

For more information or answers to other questions, call the Office of Admissions and Financial Aid at 800.277.4648, ext. 2803 or 618.374.5181.