Arrival & Orientation Dates
Our Fall 2026 arrival and orientation dates are the following:
Fall 2026 New Student Arrival Dates
| Date | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Arrival Dates | August 8-9 | New international students arrive |
| August 13 | New domestic students arrive |
Fall 2026 Orientation and Retreat Schedule
Date |
Details |
|
|---|---|---|
Orientation Dates |
August 10-13 |
New International Student Orientation (NISO) |
August 13 |
Welcome day/house move-in and New Athlete Orientation |
|
August 13-14 |
New Parent Orientation and financial services meetings Families asked to depart after lunch on 8/14 |
|
August 14-16 |
Bridging the Gap retreat at CedarS Camps |
|
August 17 |
Open Day (non-athletes) / Sports Day (new athletes) |
|
August 18-21 |
Panther Week Orientation |
Pre-Orientation Program, Pathway to Principia
After gaining access to your Principia email account, one of your first messages will come from the Advising & Academic Success Office. This will include instructions on how to log into Canvas and navigate the online pre-orientation program, Pathway to Principia.
This program is designed to guide you through learning topics, help you access student services, get you ready for your first day of classes, and complete some required training. At the end of the program, you’ll be able to submit your Roommate Profile used for roommate assignments.
NOTE: Students who do not complete the Magnus Health and Safety & Awareness sections prior to arriving on campus will not receive key card access to their room until all tasks are complete.
Pathway to Principia helps you:
- Connect with your academic advisor
- Register for classes
- Take the academic technology survey
- Learn how to access your PrinBill account and see payment dates
- Submit a health insurance waiver form or download Principia's student health insurance card
- Review Student Life's Code of Conduct and housing policies
- Access your Complete SafeColleges campus safety and alcohol awareness online training
- Learn about student support and health services, access your MagnusHealth portal and complete emergency contact and immunization documentation (exemption forms are available)
- Learn about our spiritual life program and the character & community graduation requirement
- Submit your Roommate Profile after completing all sections of Pathway to Principia
To get started on your Pathway to Principia tasks, check your Principia email account. A message from the Advising & Academic Success Office will include log-in details.
New International Student Orientation
New International Student Orientation (NISO) starts a few days before Panther Week. If you are a new international student, please plan arrive on campus either August 8 or 9. If you need assistance getting from the airport to campus, please contact our International Student Programs & Services Director at [email protected].
Bridging the Gap Retreat (Fall only)
This fall, all new students will kick off their college experience with an off-campus retreat called "Skills for Bridging the Gap" at CedarS Camps in Lebanon, MO. Designed by Interfaith America, this program helps students connect across deep divides by exploring different religious and spiritual perspectives through fun and interactive workshops.
Students will learn how to listen deeply, share their values, navigate tough conversations, and build lasting friendships. Besides the workshops, students will have time to enjoy activities like arts and crafts, sports, pool and lake swimming, kayaking, archery, zip-lining, horseback riding and more —all while staying in air-conditioned cabins. With meals catered to all dietary needs, and a special Principia blanket as a keepsake, this retreat is to help new students build sense of belonging in our community and set the stage for a successful college journey.
Fall Orientation
Fall Orientation/PANTHER Week
Prin’s new student orientation provides incoming students with an experience where you’ll explore and become part of a supportive and spiritually engaged community. You will learn more about our whole-person approach to education and our resources, facilities, and standards.
During the week, you will also:
- Move into your house and meet your roommate, your RC, and RAs.
- Get to know your way around campus
- Enjoy fun social events
- Meet professors and learn more about our academic programs
- Attend a special community chapel
- Receive helpful information about IDs, tech, dining, employment, financial aid, internships, campus safety, and more.
All new and transfer students must attend Bridging the Gap and Panther Week orientation. If you have any questions or concerns please email [email protected].
Spring Orientation
Our abbreviated Spring Orientation provides incoming transfer students with the opportunity to explore and become part of a community of opportunity, understanding, friendship, practice, and success. You will learn more about our unique, whole-person approach to education and the campus community, including its resources, facilities, and standards.
During spring orientation, you will also:
- Move into your house and meet your roommate, your RC, and RAs.
- Get to know your way around campus
- Meet professors and learn more about our academic programs
- Receive helpful information about IDs, tech, dining, employment, financial aid, internships, campus safety, and more.
All incoming spring students must attend orientation. If you have any questions or concerns please email [email protected].
Transportation to the College
Domestic Students
Principia does not offer transportation assistance for new domestic students, but you can find directions to campus here.
International Students
New international students should contact our International Student Programs & Services Director, Roseborn Bonsi-Luckett, with their arrival time information and if they need assistance from the airport or Alton train station.
