Registration Process

Selection for study abroad programs is based on eligibility criteria, an application, references, and an interview. Admission to programs may be competitive.

Read the full Student Selection & Eligibility Criteria for additional details.

The Study Abroad Director appoints faculty and staff interview and selection committees to screen and vet applicants for study abroad programs. A standard applicant dossier consists of:

• Application: including demographic information and the student’s responses to program specific essay questions.
• Academic Information: transcript and academic informational matrix. A student’s previous participation on another Principia Study Abroad program, may make them less competitive in the selection process: Guidelines for Participating on Multiple Abroads
• References: Your Academic Advisor and Resident Counselor (RC) sign the application, and students also provide Personal and Group Learning references
• Interview: conducted in-person (exceptions may apply)
• Disciplinary Record: supplied by the Dean of Students

The interview and selection committee recommends students who not only meet the minimum eligibility criteria but who also show the type of intellectual curiosity, personal maturity, academic rationale, and social flexibility necessary for a successful study abroad experience.

Final participant selection recommendations are vetted by the selection committee, the assigned Study Abroad Program Manager, and the Study Abroad Director. The Director of Study Abroad has the final authority to accept or reject the recommendations of the selection committees.