Frequently Asked Questions

How much does PSEO cost?

The State of Minnesota pays for the cost of tuition and required course materials for qualified Minnesota high school juniors and seniors. Most of our courses offered to high school juniors and seniors qualify for PSEO (excluding Bible and summer courses), and can be taken during the fall and spring semesters. If you are interested in taking non-PSEO eligible courses (i.e. Bible courses, summer courses, etc.) through Northwestern, you may take them through the Early College program.

Will I be able to talk with someone about course selection?

As a PSEO student, you will be assigned an academic advisor with whom you may discuss course selection. We also strongly encourage you to discuss your course selections with your high school guidance counselor if you intend to apply your PSEO courses to meet your high school graduation requirements.

Additionally, academic advisors should be consulted if you are experiencing challenges. The deadlines are important to keep in mind if you are considering adding, dropping, or withdrawing from courses; we encourage you to always consult with your academic advisor first before making any course change decisions.

Do I need to maintain a certain GPA?

Yes - online and on-site PSEO students must maintain a 2.00 GPA and on-campus PSEO students must maintain a 3.00 GPA while taking courses.

Will the courses qualify for full college credit?

When you complete your course, full college credit will be applied to your academic record at Northwestern. These credits may be used to complete a degree at Northwestern or transferred to another educational institution. We encourage you to check the requirements of the program and school where further study is planned before selecting your PSEO courses as the receiving institution has final say in how UNW's credits transfer to their school.

What if I don’t successfully complete my PSEO course?

If you are taking a PSEO course that is required for high school graduation, and you do not successfully complete the course, you may not be able to graduate from high school. Please contact your high school guidance counselor if you have questions regarding potential consequences due to unsuccessfully completing any courses.

Additionally, federal and state regulations require all universities to establish standards of Satisfactory Academic Progress for students receiving financial aid. The intent of the law is to encourage students receiving financial aid to make satisfactory progress towards their degrees. They must meet the following minimum requirements to receive financial assistance:

Halfway through the student’s declared program, a student must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.00. Failure to accomplish this requirement will result in the denial of assistance until a cumulative GPA of 2.00 or better has been reestablished. Students must earn a minimum of 2/3 (67%) of credits attempted to be eligible for financial aid. Withdrawal from a course may result in reduction or cancellation of financial aid.

PSEO courses are included on your permanent college transcript; therefore, grades not earned may impact financial aid in the future. Please contact Financial Aid at 651-631-5212 with any questions.

May homeschooled students participate?

Absolutely! Many homeschooled students participate in our program, and we can help guide you through the process. Nearly a third of our PSEO and Early College students are homeschooled. Students and homeschool administrators are still responsible to determine their high school graduation requirements.

May a parent/guardian access a student's information?

Your student and your student's education records are protected under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99). The law applies to all schools that receive funds under an applicable program of the U.S. Department of Education.

FERPA's primary purpose is to establish a uniform framework for access, review, and correction of academic records at all schools nationwide. In primary and secondary educational institutions, FERPA grants these rights to the parent, but these rights are transferred exclusively to the student once the student reaches the age of 18 or attends a school beyond the high school level (i.e. a post-secondary educational institution no matter the age of the student.) Students who wish for their records to be released to a parent or third party must authorize the college in writing.

The student information release form and other FERPA-related information can be found on the FERPA Frequently Asked Questions page.

Is Northwestern accredited?

Yes - Northwestern is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. For more information, please see our Accreditations and Affiliations page.

Are there ways to get involved as a PSEO student?

Yes! There are optional events planned during each semester, including social gatherings, chapels, and student-led Bible studies. Also, you will be paired up with a PSEO Assistant for your first semester on-campus. This PSEO Assistant will provide an instant connection and help you transition smoothly into the Northwestern community. The PSEO Assistant may be someone to meet with over lunch or coffee in the café or to text with questions or concerns.

Online and on-site PSEO students are welcome to attend UNWSP events on campus, including chapel, concerts, theatre productions, and athletic events. Online and on-site PSEO students may also request a Student ID Card and take advantage of on-campus study spaces, including computer labs and the library.

May I still take classes at my high school or be involved in sports?

Yes! Your academic advisor can work with you to determine a course load that fits with your academic goals and extracurricular priorities. The Minnesota Department of Education requires that students have at least one free period in their high school schedule in order to be eligible for PSEO courses.

How do I schedule a campus tour?

If you would like to visit campus, you may contact admissions to arrange a time to visit. You can set up a personalized visit or attend one of our campus visit events for prospective students. Our admissions staff is also happy to answer your questions about PSEO and Early College. Please call UNW’s appointment coordinator at (651) 631-5126 or schedule your appointment online at PSEO and Undergraduate Visit page.

What is the attendance policy?

On-Campus: Specific requirements for all courses, including class attendance, unexcused absences, etc. are established by each professor and are included in the syllabus of the course. In registering for a class, the student agrees to such requirements. Excused absences are defined as those granted by official university action for university-sponsored events, required military service, or verified medical or other emergency. Typically, students can have three unexcused absences in a course before it begins affecting their overall course grade.

On-Site: Specific requirements for all courses, including class attendance, unexcused absences, etc. are established by each professor and are included in the syllabus of the course. In registering for a class, the student agrees to such requirements. Excused absences are defined by the on-site high school in accordance with the university.

Online: Students are expected to participate in all course activities. Students must contact the faculty member in advance or as soon as possible if unable to participate in all or part of the course activities prior to the stated deadlines because of a medical, family, or work-related emergency. Students should refer to their course syllabus and/or faculty member for specific requirements. Students who do not participate in course activities and fail to withdraw from the course will receive a failing “F” grade.

How much does Early College cost?

Courses cost $225 per credit plus fees for the 22-23 academic year. Students are also responsible for the cost of required books and materials.

Will I be able to talk with someone about course selection?

As an Early College student, you will be assigned an academic advisor with whom you may discuss course selection. We also strongly encourage you to discuss your course selections with your high school guidance counselor if you intend to apply your Early College courses to meet your high school graduation requirements.

Additionally, academic advisors should be consulted if you are experiencing challenges. The deadlines are important to keep in mind if you are considering adding, dropping, or withdrawing from courses; we encourage you to always consult with your academic advisor first before making any course change decisions.

Will the courses qualify for full college credit?

When you complete your course, full college credit will be applied to your academic record at Northwestern. These credits may be used to complete a degree at Northwestern or transferred to another educational institution. We encourage you to check the requirements of the program and school where further study is planned before selecting your Early College courses.

What if I don’t successfully complete my Early College course?

If you are taking an Early College course that is required for high school graduation, and you do not successfully complete the course, you may not be able to graduate from high school. Please contact your high school guidance counselor if you have questions regarding potential consequences due to unsuccessfully completing any courses.

Additionally, federal and state regulations require all universities to establish standards of Satisfactory Academic Progress for students receiving financial aid. The intent of the law is to encourage students receiving financial aid to make satisfactory progress towards their degrees. They must meet the following minimum requirements to receive financial assistance: Halfway through the student’s declared program, a student must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.00. Failure to accomplish this requirement will result in the denial of assistance until a cumulative GPA of 2.00 or better has been reestablished. Students must earn a minimum of 2/3 (67%) of credits attempted to be eligible for financial aid. Withdrawal from a course may result in reduction or cancellation of financial aid.

Early College courses are included on your permanent college transcript; therefore, grades not earned may impact financial aid in the future. Please contact Financial Aid at 651-631-5212 with any questions.

May homeschooled students participate?

Absolutely! Many homeschooled students participate in our program, and we can help guide you through the process. Nearly a third of our PSEO and Early College students are homeschooled. Students and homeschool administrators are still responsible to determine their high school graduation requirements.

May a parent/guardian access a student's information?

Your student and your student's education records are protected under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99). The law applies to all schools that receive funds under an applicable program of the U.S. Department of Education.

FERPA's primary purpose is to establish a uniform framework for access, review, and correction of academic records at all schools nationwide. In primary and secondary educational institutions, FERPA grants these rights to the parent, but these rights are transferred exclusively to the student once the student reaches the age of 18 or attends a school beyond the high school level (i.e. a post-secondary educational institution no matter the age of the student.) Students who wish for their records to be released to a parent or third party must authorize the college in writing.

The student information release form and other FERPA-related information can be found on the FERPA Frequently Asked Questions page.

Is Northwestern accredited?

Yes, Northwestern is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. For more information, please see our Accreditations and Affiliations page.

Do I need to maintain a certain GPA?

Yes - online and on-site students must maintain a 2.00 GPA and on-campus students must maintain a 3.00 GPA while taking courses.

Are there ways to get involved as an Early College student?

Yes! Early College students taking on-campus courses at UNWSP are encouraged to get involved in extracurricular activities, including music ensembles, theatre, student clubs, intramurals, and varsity sports (subject to eligibility). Although not required, Early College students are also welcomed to attend chapel and get involved in other spiritual formation events and activities. The Office of Dual Enrollment also offers programming specifically for on-campus Early College students, including Dual Enrollment Connections, annual bonfire events, and more.

Online and on-site Early College students are welcome to attend UNWSP events on campus, including chapel, concerts, theatre productions, and athletic events. Online and on-site Early College students may also request a Student ID Card and take advantage of on-campus study spaces, including computer labs and the library.

How many credits may I take per semester?

Online students can take from 1-18 credits through Dual Enrollment. On-campus Dual Enrollment students must take at least 6 credits on-campus (12 credits are required for residential students).

Can I still take classes or be involved with extracurricular activities at my high school?

Yes! Your academic advisor can work with you to determine a course load that fits with your academic goals and extracurricular priorities.

How do I schedule a campus tour?

If you would like to visit campus, you may contact admissions to arrange a time to visit. You can set up a personalized visit or attend one of our campus visit events for prospective students. Our admissions staff is also happy to answer your questions about PSEO and Early College. Please call UNW’s appointment coordinator at (651) 631-5126 or schedule your appointment online at PSEO and Undergraduate Visit page.

What is the attendance policy?

On-Campus: Specific requirements for all courses, including class attendance, unexcused absences, etc. are established by each professor and are included in the syllabus of the course. In registering for a class, the student agrees to such requirements. Excused absences are defined as those granted by official university action for university-sponsored events, required military service, or verified medical or other emergency. Typically, students can have three unexcused absences in a course before it begins affecting their overall course grade.

On-Site: Specific requirements for all courses, including class attendance, unexcused absences, etc. are established by each professor and are included in the syllabus of the course. In registering for a class, the student agrees to such requirements. Excused absences are defined by the on-site high school in accordance with the university.

Online: Students are expected to participate in all course activities. Students must contact the faculty member in advance or as soon as possible if unable to participate in all or part of the course activities prior to the stated deadlines because of a medical, family, or work-related emergency. Students should refer to their course syllabus and/or faculty member for specific requirements. Students who do not participate in course activities and fail to withdraw from the course will receive a failing “F” grade.

How do I get my textbooks?

For Online Classes, required course materials will be mailed to your home address after you register for classes. Please note that many online classes will not use a physical textbook, and an online version will be available on the first day of class instead. For On-Campus Classes, required course materials will be available for in-person pick-up at the Campus Store at the beginning of each semester.

Textbooks provided through PSEO funding are rentals that must be returned at the end of each semester. Students are responsible to pay for late textbooks.

May I write or highlight in my textbooks?

Do not write or highlight in your textbooks with the exception of workbooks, which you may keep after the semester is over. Since the book is on loan and will be used again by another student, it is important to keep the book in good condition; books that are not returned in good condition will be billed to your student account.

What if I am sent the wrong textbooks, part of my shipment is missing, or the books arrive with damage?

Contact the Campus Store by emailing campusstore@unwsp.edu right away so the correct materials may be shipped out immediately. Please use your UNW student email and include your first and last name and approximate registration date.

What if I need to change my shipping address?

Please email DE@unwsp.edu if you need to change your address. If textbooks have already been shipped, the Campus Store will send out a second set of books to the correct address; however, you will be responsible for both sets of books. If the books are not returned, the cost of the books will be charged to your student account.

How do I return textbooks at the end of the semester?

After you have been admitted to Northwestern, you you will be able to log onto the myUNW website from there you can find more information about textbook returns by finding the Campus Store Tool. Books can also be returned via the PSEO dropbox at the Library.

Package your books in a sturdy box; use packing tape, include packing peanuts or paper products so the textbooks are secure.

Be sure the shipping label is attached securely as well. Drop off at your nearest post office or send it in the mail. We also have a PSEO textbook return bin on the main floor of the Billy Graham Community Life Commons at Northwestern in front of the Campus Store.

All textbooks are your responsibility until they reach Northwestern. If a book is received in damaged condition or past the due date, it will be charged to your student account.

Students who drop of withdraw from a class should return their materials ASAP.

May I keep the textbooks at the end of the semester?

Yes. However, please know that if you keep the textbooks at the end of the semester, your student account will be charged. You will receive a bill and should promptly pay for any books you decide to keep.

How do I get my course materials?

Students are responsible to find and purchase their own materials for Early College courses. Using their course schedule, students can find a list of required course materials on the UNW Campus Store website. Materials can be ordered through the Campus Store.

Does it matter what version of books I buy?

You should purchase the required version of each textbook as indicated on the Campus Store website. Purchasing a different version than listed may cause you to miss important content.

May I write or highlight in my textbooks?

It is up to you. Some students choose to resell their textbooks. If you choose to re-sell your textbook, please note that writing or highlighting can devalue the book.

Is there an age requirement to live on-campus?

You must be a senior in high school and 17 years old by the first day of classes.

How do I apply to be a residential student?

Students can indicate their interest in the residential program on their on-campus Dual Enrollment application. Check HERE for deadlines and criteria.

What is the cost of room and board?

• Room: $3,250/semester ($6,500/year)
• Meals: $2,324/semester ($4,648/year)
• Health Fee: $175/semester ($350/year)
• Technology Fee: $160/semester ($320/year)
• Activity Fee: $95/semester ($190/year)
• 23-24 Academic Year Total: $6,004/semester ($12,008/year)

Am I able to have a car on-campus?

Parking permit applications for residential students are prioritized by the total number of college credits that a student has at the beginning of a semester. Residential students with at least 30 college credits can apply for a parking permit. If you have any questions, please contact Public Safety at 651-631-5310 or publicsafety@unwsp.edu. The cost of a parking permit will be charged to your student account.

In which dorms can PSEO and Early College students reside?

Students are assigned a room in Knutson, Hartill, or KnuHa.

How many students live in a dorm room, and will I be with other PSEO or Early College students?

Rooms will have two or three PSEO or early College students.

Are there chapel requirements for PSEO or Early College students who live on-campus?

Yes, you will have the same chapel requirements as traditional students. Requirements can be found on the Chapel & SDC Events page.

How many credits may I take per semester?

Residential PSEO and Early College students must take at least 12 on-campus credits per semester. Online classes do not count toward the 12-credit minimum.