PSEO (Postsecondary Enrollment Options) gives qualified students the opportunity to take real college courses through participating colleges and universities. Students can earn credit toward high school graduation while getting a head start on a college degree. Because PSEO classes follow a true college schedule and require a high level of independence, this option is best for students who are academically ready, organized, and comfortable managing their own learning.
Students choose PSEO because it offers:
Free college tuition, books, and fees, helping families save on future college costs.
A jump-start on college coursework
Opportunities to pursue college-level technical or specialized courses not otherwise offered at MHS
Experience in a college environment—either online or on campus.
The potential to earn college credit before high school graduation. Highly motivated students may even earn a terminal Associate’s Degree (AA or AS) from a participating institution, depending on course selection and eligibility.
(Requirements vary by institution—students must verify with the college.)
To begin PSEO as a Junior:
Rank in the top 1/3 of the class
GPA 3.5+, or
ACT score 23+
To begin PSEO as a Senior:
Rank in the top 1/2 of the class
GPA 3.0+, or
ACT score 23+
Additional Notes:
College-level math courses require successful completion of High School Algebra 2.
Some institutions may have additional placement or testing requirements.
Students who succeed in PSEO are motivated, organized, and ready to take ownership of their learning—qualities that help them thrive in college-level coursework while in high school. These students:
Manage their time effectively and stay organized, balancing college classes, high school requirements, and other commitments.
Maintain strong study habits, dedicating regular time for classwork, homework, and preparation for exams.
Take initiative in their learning, seeking answers independently and understanding expectations without adult support.
Can follow all steps in the PSEO registration process, check communications regularly, and manage administrative responsibilities independently.
Approach challenges with self-direction and motivation, embracing the rigor of college-level coursework.
Minnesota students can choose from a variety of public and private colleges and universities that offer PSEO programs. Visit schools and research programs to determine which is the best fit for your academic goals and learning style. Here are some of the colleges and universities that Monticello High School students often attend for PSEO. Click each link to explore their PSEO programs:
St. Cloud Technical & Community College
Anoka Ramsey Community College
North Hennepin Community College
University of Northwestern (St. Paul)
And more!
Are most PSEO classes offered online, in-person, or a mix?
What percentage of PSEO students get the classes they want/need during their first PSEO year?
How much support do PSEO students receive when choosing and scheduling classes?
How often can I meet with my PSEO Advisor for guidance?
What happens if I struggle in a PSEO course? Is help available?
Will the classes I take transfer to the college or university I attend after high school?
Are there any scholarships for PSEO students who continue at your institution after graduation?
PSEO offers valuable college-level opportunities, but it requires independence, strong time management, and careful planning. While many students can gain similar academic benefits through AP or CIS courses—which provide more support and flexibility and allow full participation in high school—PSEO is best suited for highly independent, organized, and self-directed learners. Students who prefer more structured support or want to remain fully engaged in the high school experience may benefit more from CIS/AP courses.
Administrative & Registration Challenges
Students must navigate multiple registration steps at both the high school and college independently.
Late registration can make it hard to get desired classes or meeting times.
Students must regularly check emails; parents and counselors do not have access to grades or progress.
Dropping a course after Week 2 results in an F on the MHS transcript and a W on the college transcript.
Scheduling & Participation Considerations
College semesters and high school trimesters differ, requiring a full-year commitment.
Scheduling may conflict with sports, clubs, or other activities.
Student athletes are not excused from college classes or exams for events.
When attending classes on a college campus, students are responsible for finding their own ttransportation; Commuting to campus for classes or group work can be inconvenient.
Academic & Credit Considerations
PSEO grades appear on both high school and college transcripts.
Credit transferability varies by college or university.