MODULE 1: Understand the Basics

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Introduction

In this first module, we’ll walk through the basics of Minnesota’s PSEO program and how it can be a game-changer for families. You’ll learn what PSEO is, who qualifies, the key benefits and risks, common misconceptions, and our personal experience saving over $60,000 in college costs.

What is PSEO?

Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) is a Minnesota program that allows high school students to take free college courses at participating colleges or universities. Students earn both high school and college credit at the same time. Tuition and textbooks are covered by the state. This creates a dual-credit opportunity that helps students get ahead without paying tuition.

Who Qualifies and When to Start

Students typically start in 11th or 12th grade, though some 10th graders can begin with Career and Technical Education (CTE) classes if they meet testing requirements. Requirements vary by college but generally include a minimum GPA or class rank. Early planning in 9th or 10th grade helps maximize this opportunity by giving students more semesters to earn credit.

Benefits and Risks

Benefits include significant cost savings (we saved over $60,000 in tuition), access to college-level courses, flexible scheduling, and a head start on a degree. Students can choose classes that match their interests and experience college independence early. Risks include the faster pace of college coursework, less direct teacher oversight, and permanent college transcripts if a class is failed. Students need to be ready for increased responsibility, good time management, and should have family support.

Myths and Misunderstandings

Myth: PSEO is only for straight-A students.

Reality: It’s for any motivated student ready for the challenge.

Myth: PSEO students miss out on high school life.

Reality: Many PSEO students still attend prom, play sports, and take part in school events. The experience can be highly customizable, balancing high school and college priorities.

Our Experience

We started by researching colleges and talking with other parents. Charlie began in 10th grade with just one class to try it out, and gradually increased to a full college schedule. We toured multiple colleges (Bethel, Normandale, Northwestern, and the U of M) to find the right fit. We also used a custom spreadsheet to plan semester-by-semester and make sure all high school graduation requirements were covered while maximizing college credit.

Conclusion

PSEO can be a powerful tool for families who want to save money, reduce college debt, and give their students an academic head start. You don’t need to figure it all out at once — just start asking questions and making a plan. In the next module, we’ll help you choose the right college for your student’s PSEO journey, sharing what we learned from our own visits and decisions.