Principia College International Student Mission Statement
The purpose of Principia College’s International Student Program is to serve the cause of Christian Science worldwide.  It promotes understanding of differing cultures by encouraging a free interchange of ideas, customs, and points of view, contributing to unity and the healing of nations.

Principia College is a four-year liberal arts college for students dedicated to the study and practice of Christian Science. Founded in 1898, the vision of Principia emphasizes academic excellence with what we consider to be “whole man character education.”

The Principia is centrally located in the United States with the College campus in Elsah, IL. Surrounded by 2600 acres of forests, fields, and bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River, the Principia College campus resembles an English village.

Principia College faculty put emphasis on their classroom teaching and on building relationships with students. Academic emphasis throughout the curriculum is on writing, speaking and thinking clearly; character education; and practical experience.  The average class size of 12 students makes it easy to ask questions, to discuss, and to share ideas. 

500 or more students come each year from across the United States and the world. Approximately 30 states and 20 other countries are represented in Principia’s student body. About 15% of the students at Principia College are international students. We currently have students from Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, and Australia, enabling us all to celebrate the beauty of diversity.

International students at Principia are expected to participate in and contribute fully to the educational program. In fact, the most successful international students find themselves involved in many activities and actively engaged in the classroom.