The Post-Secondary Enrollment Option program, also known as PSEO, was created as a means to “promote rigorous educational pursuits and provide a wider variety of options for students.” Through PSEO, high school students receive both high school and college/university credit for college or university courses that are completed.
The program is available to students throughout the state. Students from nearly every Minnesota high school can earn credits through PSEO from programs at Minnesota state colleges and universities. Through PSEO, students may take courses on a college or university campus, via online, or, if available, at their high school.
To increase the likelihood of student success the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system has set the following standards for admission to PSEO:
For Juniors, class rank in the upper third of their class or a score at or above the 70 th percentile on a nationally standardized, norm-referenced test, such as the ACT or SAT;
For Seniors, class rank in the upper half of their class or a score at or above the 50 th percentile on a nationally standardized, norm-referenced test, such as the ACT or SAT.
Participating colleges/universities may also have GPA requirements.
Students may also provide other documentation of readiness to perform college-level work for review and approval by a college or university.
PSEO Course Policy at Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School
The Board of Directors opted to participate in PSEO as another educational opportunity for students. While they feel that education at MVL is excellent, some students may decide to enroll in PSEO. Parents/guardians and students need to be aware of the pros and cons of enrolling in PSEO. Parents/guardians and students are solely responsible for becoming educated about the PSEO program.
Steps to take if interested in PSEO
Student and parents/guardians are required to contact the School Counselor’s office to talk over the process and discuss any questions or concerns. Phone: 507-233-8685 or tjsmith@mvlhs.org
All course work must be approved by the School Counselor and registrar in order to be considered for high school credit. Unapproved coursework will NOT be considered for high school graduation credits.
All PSEO course work will be included in the student’s high school records, GPA, credits, and graduation requirements.
Interested Juniors and Seniors who qualify for the program are to notify the registrar immediately (see deadlines on back page).
PSEO Online
PSEO participation does not require a student to leave the MVL campus. Eligible students can take online PSEO courses during their normal daily routine at MVL. Students who choose this option can work on their coursework during study halls or outside of the school day. This flexible option allows students to enhance their high school academic schedule and enjoy the high school experiences while gaining college credits through PSEO. Online PSEO is available through most Minnesota Colleges and Universities.
Possible Risks of the Program
Students and parents need to thoroughly educate themselves on the risks of enrolling in PSEO. Even though students may be prepared for the rigors of college courses. They may not be prepared for the more “open” schedule of college education. Failing PSEO courses will have a direct impact on a student’s Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School GPA and graduation timeline. Participating colleges/universities will not communicate student progress to the registrar or MVL faculty, or in most cases, to parents, on the progress of the student. Students and parents must realize this prior to signing up for PSEO. Students who withdraw from a PSEO class will fall under MVL’s class withdrawal guidelines.
Juniors
Juniors are allowed to take PSEO part-time and are required to take a minimum of four classes at Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School. Juniors must take their required courses at MVL, while elective courses may be taken at the respective college or university. Students will need to plan for travel time when choosing courses if they are planning on taking them in person. Online PSEO courses will be built into the student’s MVL daily schedule.
Seniors
Seniors have the option of taking PSEO part- or full- time. Each option comes with different arrangements that need to be discussed. Full–time PSEO students are required to take Practical Christianity on campus at MVL. The English requirement can be satisfied with an approved PSEO English course.
Registering for the Program
Each college/university has its own timetable and deadlines which must be met. Students must notify the School Counselor prior to registering for PSEO with a college or university.
Payment of Tuition
The financial secretary will assist parents and students with tuition. In general, PSEO students are responsible for the registration fee, pro-rated course tuition, and any additional fees, including but not limited to activity fees. Parents/guardians are required to fill out the financial agreement forms, agreeing to prescribed tuition.
All PSEO students are required to pay the full current registration fee (please note late fee assessment does apply). For each PSEO course taken by a student in person or at a college or university, the cost reduction will be 6% of the student’s annual tuition. It should be noted that fees for co-curriculars and other activities are not included in this amount. Financial aid will be pro-rated respectively.
MVL Deadlines for PSEO Notification
Students must notify the School Counselor and registrar about their decision to enroll in the PSEO program.
April 15: Notification deadline for fall semester
May 15: Registration deadline for fall semester
November 15: Notification deadline for spring semester
December 15: Registration deadline for spring semester
Co-Curricular Activities
Full-time and part–time PSEO students are still eligible to participate in all co-curricular opportunities.
Questions about PSEO
PSEO questions or concerns may be directed to the School Counselor’s office.