Application Process for High School Students & PSEO Students

What is PSEO?

The Post-Secondary Educational Options (PSEO) program is a state program for high school juniors and seniors, which offers the opportunity to enroll in and attend college-level courses and apply earned credits toward high school graduation requirements and a college degree. State funding covers the cost of tuition and required books for eligible courses.

Fall Deadline: Priority deadline is April 15 / Final Deadline is July 1

Spring Deadline: December 1

Steps to Become a PSEO College Student

STEP 1. Apply 

Apply Online  (Complete and submit all application material)

This is the quickest way to process your application. You will be prompted to:

• Create a MnSCU account to complete the online application.
• Complete the PSEO Notice of Student Registration Form  (also known as the PSEO State form). High school counselor or administrator signature required.
• Gather your qualifying academic records: high school transcripts or nationally standardized test scores.

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NEXT Steps after you are admitted

STEP 2. Complete the Placement Test

The Accuplacer Placement Test assesses skill levels in reading, English composition and mathematics. Test results are used to determine the appropriate course placement to promote your success in college. Placement tests are offered on a regular basis throughout the year and the first set of tests are free. 

STEP 3. Complete Online Orientation

Anoka-Ramsey provides students the opportunity to learn the necessary information to begin college successfully. PSEO students are required to complete online orientation prior to registering for any classes at ARCC.

STEP 4. Attend Registration Planning Session (RPS) - Attendance Required Before PSEO Registration

Students will have the opportunity to talk with an advisor regarding degree/program requirements and appropriate course load, receive help with registering for courses, and tour the college campus. PSEO students are required to attend an RPS in order to register for classes.

Restricted Courses

PSEO program funds cannot be used for developmental courses (all courses numbered below 1000), or for courses that have high activity or material fees. These courses include, but are not limited to: Applied Music (MUSC 1105, MUSC 2105), Business Seminars (BUS 1189, BUS 2189), Ceramics (ART 2251, ART 2252, ART 2281), Glass Blowing (ART 1131, ART 1132, ART 2131, ART 2132), Photography (ART 1165, ART 1166, ART 1167), Sculpture (ART 2261, ART 2262), Stained Glass (ART 1121, ART 1122), Sailing (HPER 1179), Skiing (HPER 1132), Snowboarding (HPER 1134), Honors Experience (HUM 1172), and study abroad courses. PSEO students enrolling in these courses must pay for the credits and associated fees. 

STEP 5. Get Books

PSEO books are available approximately 2-3 weeks prior to the start of the term.  Bring your class schedule with you when you pick up your books at the bookstore.   All books and materials that you charge must be returned after the course has ended, or you will be charged a fee equal to 75% of the original price. 

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PSEO Academic Eligibility Requirements

Anoka-Ramsey Community College follows the PSEO admission guidelines set forth by the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MnSCU). Students are admitted based the following criteria:

Traditional High School, Charter School and Home School Students:

• High School Juniors: Must be in the upper one-third of class or test score at or above the 70th percentile on any nationally standardized, norm-referenced test such as the ITED, PLAN, ACT, PSAT, or SAT.
• High School Seniors: Must be in the upper one-half of class or test score at or above 50th percentile on any nationally standardized, norm-referenced test such as the ITED, PLAN, ACT, PSAT, or SAT.

Special High School Admission

High School students who are not enrolled at Anoka-Ramsey Community College through the PSEO program and are at least 16 years of age may be admitted to enroll in courses outside of the PSEO program for any term, including summer session. Students are responsible for payment of tuition, fees and books. Interested students must complete ARCC’s general paper application, submit placement test results and receive written permission to enroll from a parent or guardian. High school transcripts may be required.  If interested please inquire with the Admissions Department to receive the Financial Aid Responsibilty form.