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47.9%Acceptance
$33,280Tuition
337Students
76%Grad Rate (6-yr)
Private nonprofit4-yearSAT/ACT Test OptionalLiberal ArtsStudy AbroadData: 2023-24

Cost Details

In-State Tuition
$33,280
Out-of-State Tuition
$33,280
Students Receiving Financial Aid
0.0%
Room & Board (On Campus)
$13,370
Room & Board (Off Campus)
$10,000
Books & Supplies
$1,000
Total Cost of Attendance
$47,650
Students Taking Federal Loans
0.0%
Pell Grant Recipients
0.0%

Cost Overview

Despite a sticker price of $47,650, only 22% of Principia students receive institutional grants averaging $27,051. This creates a stark divide between families who pay full price and those receiving significant aid. Over four years, full-paying families spend nearly $191,000 for their student's education. The college's Christian Science mission attracts a specific demographic, which explains why zero students receive federal Pell Grants or take federal loans.

The 5:1 student-faculty ratio justifies some of the premium pricing at this 337-student liberal arts college. Students from wealthy Christian Science families get access to incredibly small classes and personalized attention. The best financial deal goes to the one-fifth of students who qualify for institutional aid, cutting their costs by more than half. Everyone else pays the full freight at one of the most expensive small colleges in Illinois.

Official Net Price Calculator

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