Overview
Principia College is a moderately selective private four-year institution in Elsah, Illinois. The school accepts 47.9% of applicants and enrolls 337 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 47.9%
- Average SAT
- 1,135
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 970–1,300
- Total Enrollment
- 337
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
Principia College requires all students, faculty, and staff to be Christian Scientists, making it the only college in the world with this religious requirement. Your application must include a recommendation from a Christian Science practitioner or teacher, and you'll need to demonstrate active participation in the Christian Science community through your essays and activities.
The college operates on a complete honor code called the Principia Commitments, which shapes every aspect of campus life. Students pledge to abstain from alcohol, tobacco, drugs, and premarital sex, and the community relies entirely on trust rather than enforcement. Your essays should reflect genuine alignment with these values, not just intellectual understanding of them.
Principia's study abroad program sends students to locations like Scotland, England, Argentina, and Japan. Nearly every student participates in at least one overseas program during their four years. Mentioning specific locations or cultural experiences you hope to explore can strengthen your application, especially if you connect them to your academic interests.
The small size creates an intimate environment where every student matters. You'll work directly with professors on research projects as an undergraduate, and many students present at professional conferences. Your application should show you're ready for this level of personal responsibility and academic independence.
Campus traditions run deep, including the annual Shakespeare competition and May Day celebrations. Students govern themselves through the Student Senate and various committees. Your essays should demonstrate leadership potential and community spirit, as you'll likely hold multiple roles during your time there.
The application includes standard Common Application materials plus Principia-specific questions about your Christian Science background and commitment to the college's values. Submit your practitioner recommendation early, as these can take longer to coordinate than typical academic references.
The college attracts students who want close relationships with professors and classmates rather than large university anonymity. If you prefer blending into crowds or keeping your personal and academic lives separate, you won't find what you're looking for here. Students who succeed genuinely embrace both the academic challenges and the tight-knit Christian Science community that defines campus culture.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Tuition (in-state)
- $33,280
- Students Receiving Aid
- 0%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 76.2%
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 75.4%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Principia College require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Principia College is test-optional, meaning standardized test scores are not required for admission.
What is the application deadline for Principia College?
Principia College has rolling admissions with priority deadlines of December 1 for fall and November 1 for spring. Applications are reviewed as they are completed.
Can transfer students apply to Principia College?
Yes, Principia College accepts transfer students. Transfer applicants must submit college transcripts and are evaluated based on their college academic performance.
Does Principia College have early decision or early action?
Principia College does not offer early decision or early action programs. All applications are reviewed through their rolling admissions process.