College & Career Center

PSEO allows high school students to take college-level courses while still in high school. This program offers students the opportunity to earn both high school and college credits simultaneously, providing an excellent pathway for academic advancement.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Juniors must have a 3.0 GPA
• Seniors must have a 2.5 GPA.

Application Process:

• See your school counselor for the PSEO Guidelines form to get you started.

For more information on PSEO, contact your high school counselor:

• Last names A-G: Amber Strom, (763) 689-6449, astrom@c-ischools.org
• Last names H-O: Kara Martin, (763) 689-6022, kmartin@c-ischools.org
• Last names P-Z:  Rachel Senarighi, (763) 689-6019, rsenarighi@c-ischools.org 

 College in the Schools (CIS) allows high school students to enroll in college courses that are taught by high school teachers who have been approved by the partnering college. This program helps students gain college credit while completing high school requirements.

CIHS CIS Courses:
CIS Courses 23-24
 

Articulated College Credit courses are taught at Cambridge-Isanti High School and offer students high school credit as well as college credit. Students are expected to perform at the college level. Through technical schools, students will receive an Articulated College Credit Certificate of Credit if they meet the requirements. The Articulated College Credit Certificate may be submitted to a college at the time of registration to possibly receive college credit. College acceptance of credits is subject to change due to revisions in college courses and other circumstances.

Please go to www.CTEcreditmn.com to see the full list of Articulated College Credit offered at CIHS.

CIHS has Articulated College Credit Agreements with Anoka-Ramsey and North Hennepin Community Colleges and Anoka, St. Cloud, and Hennepin Technical Colleges.


CIHS Courses Offering Articulated Credits:

•  Auto 1
• Carpentry & Furniture
• Child Development
• Early Childhood Education A & B
• Fashion Design
• Introduction to Culinary Arts A & B
• Introduction to Engineering
• Introduction to Woods
• Machining & Manufacturing Process 2
• Medical Terminology
• Vocational Welding
• Vocational Woods A & B
• (School Store)
   

Advanced Placement is an internationally recognized program whereby students take classes that provide excellent preparation for the rigors of college. Students that pass the AP final test with a grade of “3” or higher may receive college credit for that class. Each college determines the passing score they will accept. Contact the specific college for further information on transferring AP credits.

Many times, one advanced placement class taken in high school will allow a student to opt out of at least one college class and possibly more than one.

Regardless of whether a student passes an advanced placement course or not, college admissions administrators take positive note of students who have challenged themselves with more rigorous courses. Because of the excellent preparation they provide for college, students are strongly encouraged to challenge themselves with concurrent and Advanced Placement courses.

CIHS AP Courses:

• English (Language/Composition & Literature/Composition)
• Social Studies (US Government & Politics)
   

CIHS OJT Programs:

• Work experience/ OJT courses provide students with opportunities to apply the skills and knowledge learned in previous CTE and general education courses within a professional work environment in a field related to their career interests. Students interact with industry professionals to develop postsecondary and career readiness knowledge and skills.

Application Process:

• Registration through the Counseling Office is required after approval of the Work-Based Learning Coordinator.

1. PSAT (Preliminary SAT)
Overview: The PSAT is a practice test for the SAT, taken by 10th and 11th graders, assessing reading, writing, and math skills.
Importance:

• Prepares students for the SAT.
• Qualifies high scorers for the National Merit Scholarship Program (11th grade only).
• Provides schools with insights into student performance.

2. ACT (American College Testing)
Overview: The ACT is a college admissions test that evaluates English, math, reading, and science skills, with an optional writing section.
Importance:

• Required by some colleges for admission.
• High scores can lead to scholarships and financial aid.
• Used for course placement in college.

3. SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test)
Overview: The SAT is a standardized test focused on reading, writing, and math, often required for college admission.
Importance:

• Key component of college applications.
• High scores can increase scholarship opportunities.
• Indicates readiness for college-level work.

4. ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery)
Overview: The ASVAB is a multi-aptitude test used to determine qualification for enlistment in the U.S. Armed Forces and to assess a student’s skills and potential career paths.
Importance:

• Required for military enlistment, helping students understand their strengths in various fields.

Why These Tests Matter
Standardized tests provide a common metric for evaluating students, assess essential skills for college success, and open doors to scholarship opportunities.

Tests Offered at CIHS:

• PSAT, ACT, ASVAB

Test Dates and Registration:

• PSAT Exam: October 23, 2024
• ACT Exam & ASVAB: March 26, 2025
• Registration information sent out through the CIHS school newsletter, Schoology postings, and emails.

Preparation Resources:

• MCIS - Login to your MCIS account through Clever. Free Practice Tests are available under the “Practice Tests” tab.
• ACT.org - Offers free Practice Tests, Test Prep Events, Study Guides and more!

For more information on testing, contact:

• Sarah Baxter, sbaxter@c-ischools.org, (763) 689-6079

FreshmanChecklist.pdf

SophomoreChecklist.pdf

JuniorChecklist.pdf

SeniorChecklist.pdf

Need-Based Financial Aid and Scholarships

Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to find out their Expected Family Contribution (EFC). The EFC is a relative measurement of the student's ability to pay for school, and this number is often used to determine the amount of federal and state assistance available, including some federal and state scholarships. This is a good start, but the true Cost of Attendance (COA) is often different than the sticker price. Most students have expenses beyond tuition, including room and board, books, and other costs. Before turning to student loans, students with financial need can look for scholarships to help close the gap between their EFC and COA. 

Academic and Merit-Based Scholarships

Some of the more competitive types of scholarships are academic scholarships, or also known as merit scholarships.  In order to receive an academic scholarship to pay for school, strong grades are encouraged, as well as ranking in the top five to ten percent of your graduating class. Merit scholarships are often related to academic performance, but can also be given to a candidate displaying artistic or athletic excellence, or even a combination of both. It is safe to say that, while all academic scholarships are merit scholarships, not all merit scholarships are academic scholarships. You have a chance at winning scholarships in this category if you are a generally strong student or in your area of study, and there are greater opportunities that come from extracurricular involvement.

Student-Specific Scholarships

There is a scholarship for almost anything you can imagine. Whether you're a single mom or have strong religious convictions, have a passion for thinking "green" or love to dance, chances are there is at least one scholarship out there that you're eligible for. Make a list of your personal, unique attributes, and investigate the major organizations, local groups, and private corporations that may have educational funding. Cancer societies, for example, offer a large number of cancer scholarships for college students with a history of cancer. No matter what you enjoy doing or what makes you stand out, there could be a scholarship to reward you for simply being you. 

Unique Scholarships

Unique scholarships compensate unique hobbies, such as duck calling or speaking in Klingon, and are less competitive than needs-based or more high-profile scholarships. For example, not many people have a passion for creating prom attire out of duct tape. Consider your special qualities, and look into contacting local organizations that fit your profile. If you are looking into a field that is unique, look to your community for the field-relevant award you are pursuing. Look beyond your college application and your grades, and you may be eligible for funding in more than one place.

Government Scholarships

Working for the government can definitely have its perks when you decide to go to college, and it can be beneficial for the whole family. For instance, there are scholarships available to those that have lost a parent or spouse while in the line of duty as a U.S. Marshall, NCIS employee, game warden, FBI agent, and more. The Federal Employee Education & Assistance (FEEA) Fund offers an annual scholarship competition just for civilian federal and postal employees, as well as their children and spouses. There are even job-specific scholarships for government and public service employees and their family members, such as Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT), firefighters, law enforcement officials, highway patrol officers, U.S. Postal Service workers, and more. If you have a parent or spouse who works as a government official — either local, state, or federal — check out government scholarships.

Scholarships by Type

The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development's (DEED) Career Pathways tool connects occupational data from DEED's Labor Market Information office with educational programming from the Minnesota State Career Wheel, displaying career fields, clusters, and pathways. The primary goal of this dashboard is to help students understand how their educational path matches employment opportunities, and to inform education curriculum, initiatives, and programming to labor market realities. The tool is designed to help start career exploration with students and families. Students and jobseekers can also find more information about Career Exploration through DEED's Path to Career Success section.

• DEED Career Pathways Worksheet
• Helpful Hints
• Quick Video Tutorial
• Career Pathways Dashboard

Job-Seeking Students

Many local business and community organizations are looking for qualified students to fill positions.  Check out the Career Center to chat about local jobs hiring. Click here for a list of local companies potentially hiring and links to those companies' websites. Navigate the sheets using the tabs at the bottom. Note that not all these jobs are always hiring but gives you an idea to what companies to check out in your area. It is always being updated so just keep checking back for more ideas.  

It is recommended that students have the following essential documents when searching for employment opportunities:

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• Letters of Recommendation (at least one; preferably three)

The CIHS College & Career Advisor is available if you would like assistance completing these documents, preparing for an interview, or discussing pre and post-interview practices.

Employers Seeking to Make Connection with Students

If you are an employer and would like to get involved at our high school, please complete the Partnering with Cambridge-Isanti High School on Career Development. If you have a job opening, you can email Sandra Yerges directly to assist you.

Cover Letters & Resumes

A cover letter is a letter written to a potential employer, submitted with a resume and application. It allows the applicant to express their interest in a specific job posting, to highlight some of their special qualifications, and it helps to give a personal touch to an application portfolio.

In your cover letter, you can also highlight other in-demand employability skills such as problem-solving, social media literacy, creativity, resilience, leadership, willingness to learn, attention to detail, teamwork, time management, positivity, determination, organization, drive, adaptability, flexibility, and punctuality. 

You can use MCIS surveys to help find your specific skills that employers are looking for. 

Finding a Job

It is important for you to think about many factors when searching for a job. As a high school student, consider the following:

• Your natural skills and abilities
• Your future plans
• Looking for jobs that promote personal growth
• Employers with internship opportunities
• Jobs that will accommodate your school/activities schedule

Local job postings are available in the College & Career Center.  Job openings are also listed here.

Interviews

Once you have submitted an application, the business will call you. If you don't here anything a week after submitting your application, I recommend calling the business and following up about the position you applied for. Most people stress about interviews, but if you sufficiently prepare yourself you will be surprised at how comfortable an interview can be. 

The Career Center has tips and resources to equip you with the knowledge and confidence to be prepared.

After your interview, make sure to write a "Thank You" letter or email for taking the time to interview you! "Thank You" letters and emails are often overlooked by applicants after an interview, but leave a very positive impression on Human Resources staff, and more specifically, the interviewers themselves. At your interview, be sure to ask for the business cards of the person/people interviewing you. That will make it easier to track down who the "Thank You" letter or email should be addressed to.

Job Applications

Once you have created a resume and cover letter, it is time to fill out a job application. There are several different ways applications can be completed and submitted. Paper, kiosk, or online applications are the typical formats you can expect to use. The first step is to research which job/career you'd like to obtain. Do the ground work. Know about the company and its vision/mission/goals.

For all Resume, Interview, Applications, and Job searches you can connect with Sandra Yerges to assist you!

Check out the links below for online job searches. Keep in mind that not all positions will be available to students under the age of 16 or 18. The Career Center will post local job opportunities in the Self-Serve Bin.

Looking for a job?

Career.com is the first recruitment site to connect employers with qualified job seekers.

Job Boards

CareerBuilder.com is a leader in the Internet job awareness business in the US Marketplace. It leverages the newspaper classified business to create the fastest growing, most profitable job board in the industry.

Workforce Info 

CareerOneStop is a U.S. Department of Labor-sponsored website that offers career resources and workforce information to job seekers, students, businesses, and workforce professionals to foster talent development in a global economy. 

Careers in the Military

Career exploration begins with you. Take time to find out about your interests, skills, and work-related values. The chances for a rewarding career are improved if you select a career field consistent with your interests, values, and skills.

Tech Careers

Dice.com is the leading career destination for tech experts at every stage of their careers.

Other Job Search/Information Sites

LinkUp (formerly JobDig) is a mid west job search engine that only index jobs directly from employer websites.

Minnesota Workforce Center (WFCs) provide the tools, resources and services needed for job search, career planning and training needs.

Monster connects you to the real world opportunities that can help you achieve your goals and realize your dreams. Whether you're thinking about a new job, new career, a new city or a new direction. Monster helps you explore the possibilities and find the opportunities that are right for you.

Occupational Outlook Handbook is a nationally recognized source of career information, designed to provide valuable assistance to individuals making decisions about their future work lives. Revised every two years, the Handbook describes what workers do on the job, working conditions, the training and education needed, earnings, and expected job prospects in a wide range of occupations.

Star Tribune Jobs online is the leading online Twin Cities employment site. Star Tribune Jobs online continues to feature timely employment news and information, plus thousands of job listings, e-mail links directly to employers, resume building software to give you the competitive edge. Jobs online is your resource to finding that first position, a better job, or an entirely different career.

Teens 4 Hire #1 online career and recruitment site for U.S. teens seeking work.

University of Minnesota is one of the largest employers in the state, providing tuition benefits, career services, multicultural resources, comprehensive accommodations for employees with disabilities, and a commitment to workplace excellence. Through a variety of employee governance opportunities and committee involvement, the University encourages and empowers its workforce to contribute to the overall success of its mission.

Job Shadows are a great way to gain information about a specific career or a career field. Students at CIHS are able to explore jobs they find interesting before they commit to a program of study or apply for a job. All high school students are able to use two (2) school-excused job shadow days per year to investigate their career paths. Please follow the instructions below to be school-excused for a job shadow. 

Setting Up a Job Shadow

1) Students are responsible for finding a job shadow experience, if you need assistance see Kylie Conley. Consider local business professionals! If you are searching for a job shadow experience in the medical, law, or mental health fields where confidentiality may be a factor, look to higher education. Colleges are always willing to help out high school students who are interested in furthering their careers. 

2) There will be a permission form you will need to complete (includes parent/guardian signature), to get the job shadow permission form see Sandra Yerges in the Career Center. 

3) Once you find a person to shadow, you will set up a time to shadow the host directly with the host. Make sure you give the job shadow host adequate time to plan and prepare. You will fill out the top part of the permission form with your parent/guardian, make sure they sign it!

4) Before your Job Shadow, bring the permission form back to Sandra Yerges to get school-excused.

5) You will then bring the permission form with you to the job shadow to have your host sign the form. 

6) Make sure you write them a thank you letter or email!

7) After the Job Shadow, return your form to Sandra Yerges.

The Minnesota Career Information System (MCIS) is an Internet-based system that combines a wealth of career, educational and labor market information into one comprehensive, easy-to-use exploration tool.

To learn more visit https://portal.mncis.intocareers.org/

Login Information:

Students - Log in with Clever. 

Parents - Username:cihs1 Password: welcome

High School Transcripts

All official high school transcripts for the purpose of college or military admissions are ordered through Parchment and not directly through the high school Counseling Office. All transcripts cost approximately $6.60 each. Click here for directions.  You should allow 2-5 business days for your request(s) to be processed and available for download by the destination. It's always a good idea to call the college(s) after this time period to check the status of your application(s). 

PLEASE NOTE: Students who need transcripts for scholarship purposes can request FREE official paper copies. Additionally, students who are eligible for the free and/or reduced lunch program qualify for four (4) transcript fee waivers for admissions purposes. 

All transcript inquires should be directed to Jennifer Heath, Administrative Assistant, in the Counseling Office at 763-689-6006 or via email. 

Student Directions for Parchment

College Transcripts

Click here for a complete list of College In the Schools (CIS) courses offered at CIHS.  Click here for help on determining which type of transcript you need.

College transcripts from the following institutions can be ordered from the National Clearinghouse website:

• Anoka-Ramsey Community College
• St. Cloud State University
• St. Cloud Technical & Community College

College transcripts from the following institutions can be ordered from Parchment:

• University of Minnesota-Twin Cities 

OR, you can order your transcript directly from the college's website:

• Anoka-Ramsey Community College 
• Bethel University
• St. Cloud Technical & Community College
• St. Cloud State University
• University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

AP Credit Transfers

Click here to access the Advanced Placement credit transfer website. There is a fee of $15.00 per college. Requests generally take one week to process from the date they are received.

Articulated College Credit Transfers

Click here for a tutorial on how to send Articulated College Credits.

Community Members, Adults, and Students

Volunteering in the community allows you to practice job skills, and to ready yourselves for future employment while also supporting the community. 

If you are an adult or student looking to volunteer your time, please fill out the Volunteer Application. 

Once the volunteer application is completed then the person starts receiving regular emails with the current volunteer opportunities. One-time background checks are required for all volunteers at Cambridge-Isanti Schools. 

If you are an organization or business looking for volunteers, please email Sandra Yerges directly.

The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development's (DEED) Career Pathways tool connects occupational data from DEED's Labor Market Information office with educational programming from the Minnesota State Career Wheel, displaying career fields, clusters, and pathways. The primary goal of this dashboard is to help students understand how their educational path matches employment opportunities, and to inform education curriculum, initiatives, and programming to labor market realities. The tool is designed to help start career exploration with students and families. Students and jobseekers can also find more information about Career Exploration through DEED's Path to Career Success section.

• DEED Career Pathways Worksheet
• Helpful Hints
• Quick Video Tutorial
• Career Pathways Dashboard

Summary of the College Application Process for Traditional (Non-Common App) Colleges

1. Do the groundwork. Review college catalogs, request information, visit campuses, attend the college fair, and visit with representatives who come to the high school.
2. Take the appropriate admissions tests. Make sure to indicate on your ACT online registration where you would like your test scores sent (you can send your scores to four different schools for no additional cost). After you take the test, there is a fee each time you send your test scores to a college.
3. Decide where you wish to apply. Make sure that you meet the admission requirements for the program you want. Many colleges have early deadlines, so it is suggested that you begin applying to the colleges of your choice early in your senior year. Some advantages to applying by the early application deadline include:
   • Availability to be accepted into the program of your choice,
   • Preference in registering for classes,
   • Better choice of housing,
   • Financial aid, grants, loans, and work study availability. Most colleges will not consider you for any type of financial aid until you have been accepted to that college.
4. Apply online and pay the application fee with a debit or credit card.
5. Request your high school transcript through the online ordering system called Parchment. All official transcripts must be ordered through Parchment.com and not through the high school Counseling Office. All transcripts cost $4.40 each.
6. Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as required. October 1st is the earliest possible filing date. The previous year's tax information is required to complete the form. Information and assistance for the FAFSA is available during the CIHS Financial Aid Night. To complete the FAFSA form, the student and parent need to create an FSA ID.
7. Apply for all scholarships that you are eligible for including: local scholarships listed on the Scholarships tab, all scholarship applications from your college of attendance, and by completing your Dollars for Scholars profile by January 31st of your senior year. If applicable, CIHS will provide free transcripts for scholarships.
8. Confirm your admission and housing status by sending in any required deposit.
9. Attend orientation sessions if offered.
10. Request official transcripts of any PSEO, College in the Schools, or Articulated College credit you may have earned. Students who are eligible for Free & Reduced Lunch Programs may receive transcript fee waivers.

Steps for the College Application Process for Common App Colleges

1. Create a user account for the Common Application. Your Common App account should list ALL Common App colleges to which you are applying under ‘My Colleges’. It is important to keep this list updated. Remember, not all colleges accept the Common App. If a college is an exclusive Common App user, you must use CommonApp to apply. For schools that do not utilize the Common App, follow the application instructions on the college’s official website.
   
   GO TO COMMONAPP.ORG
    
2. Complete the FRPA Waiver [Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act]. The FERPA waiver is found in the 'Recommenders & FERPA' link in your online Common Application. You can only see the FERPA link once you add at least one school to your account. The waiver is a one‐time task that must be completed before any electronic documents will be sent to any Common App colleges. We recommend that you waive your right to access any records sent on your behalf. Common App schools usually require 1 or 2 teacher recommendations. Your Counselor will also provide a School Report and if requested, a letter of recommendation.
    
3. Transcripts – Request official transcripts to be sent to your colleges. Log in to your Parchment.com account. If you don’t have an account in Parchment, use these instructions to help you make a basic account. There is a $6.60 fee for each official transcript that is sent using Parchment.
   
   GO TO PARCHMENT.COM
    
4. Counselor or Teacher Recommendations — First, you must present yourself in person to the counselor or teacher to ask if they agree to write a letter for you. If they say “YES”, you must follow the steps listed in your Common App account. Be sure to thank your recommender!
    
5. Request your ACT and/or SAT scores directly from that organization to be sent to the college. Log in to your ACT and/or CollegeBoard account(s) to send your ACT and/or SAT/AP scores.
   
   GO TO ACT
   
   GO TO SAT
    
6. Follow up! To view the status of your application package, check the Common App website.

There are many ways you can receive college credit during high school which include:  College in the School, Tech Prep, Advanced Placement or Post Secondary Enrollment Options. These courses will be listed on the CIHS transcript. Tech Prep college credits will be verified in a certificate that is given out by the teacher or sent to the student’s home. The certificate may be accepted at colleges other than those listed. Students receiving College in the School or PSEO college credit must send transcripts from the college they have received credit, to the college they plan to attend. Some colleges will charge to send your transcripts, unless you are sending a MnSCU transcript to another MnSCU institution, then it is free of charge. Check with your college to find out proper procedure.  

Click here for a complete list of College in the Schools courses offered at CIHS.

Click here for a tutorial on how to send Articulated College Credits.

Academic Options Benefiting College Enrollment 

Articulated College Credit or Tech Prep- These courses are taught at Cambridge-Isanti High School and offer students high school credit as well as college credit. Students are expected to perform at the college level. Students will receive a Articulated College Credit Certificate if they meet the requirements. The Articulated College Credit Certificate may be submitted to a college at the time of registration to receive college credit if allowed by that college.  College acceptance of credits is subject to change due to revisions in college courses and other circumstances. For current information, click here. CIHS has Agreements with the following Community Colleges: Anoka-Ramsey and North Hennepin and with the following Technical Colleges: Anoka, Pine, St. Cloud, and Hennepin. Minnesota State Colleges and Universities are accepting some Articulated College Credits - check with the college's admission counselor.

College in the Schools- CIHS offers college level courses which allow students to receive high school and college credits simultaneously. Beginning in their junior year, eligible students may take College Algebra, College Biology, College Calculus, College Chemistry, College German 3/4, College Geography, College Public Speaking, College Psychology, College Sociology, College Reading and Writing, College Statistics, and Vocational Welding. These classes are taught by teachers who have at least a Master’s degree and have the advantage (unlike PSEO courses) of being taught on-site. Because these credits are offered through Anoka Ramsey Community College, Bethel University, St. Cloud Technical & Community College, St. Cloud State University, and the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities, other colleges may accept or deny these transfer credits. It is important for students to contact the registrar of the college in order to have official transcripts sent to the college of their choice. Contact the Counseling Office or the College & Career Center for more information.

Advanced Placement Courses- Advanced Placement is an internationally recognized program whereby students take classes that provide excellent preparation for the rigors of college. Students that pass the final test with a grade of “3” or higher may receive college credit for that class. Each college determines the passing score they will accept. Contact the specific college for further information on transferring A.P. credits. Many times one advanced placement class taken in high school will allow a student to opt out of at least one college class and possibly more than one. 

Post-Secondary Enrollment Options (PSEO)- (Please go to https://education.mn.gov/MDE/dse/ccs/pseo/ for the most current and complete information)

Beginning in the junior year, a student may opt to attend any college, either full-time or part-time, to which he/she has been accepted. Juniors must rank in the top third of their class; seniors must rank in the top half of their class. Colleges require a minimum  cumulative GPA for admission. State funding covers the cost of tuition, fees, and required books for eligible courses. It is the student’s responsibility to check on the transfer of credits to a different college.  Also, transportation must be provided by the student. More information and guideline sheets are available in the Counseling Office or the College & Career Center. It is important for students to contact the registrar of the college in order to have official transcripts sent to the college they will be attending.  

*Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) is a program that allows 10th-, 11th- and 12th-grade students to earn both high school and college credit while still in high school, through enrollment in and successful completion of college nonsectarian courses at eligible participating postsecondary institutions. Most PSEO courses are offered on the campus of the postsecondary institution; some courses are offered online. Each participating college or university sets its own admissions requirements for enrollment into the PSEO courses. Eleventh and 12th-grade students may take PSEO courses on a full- or part-time basis; 10th graders are eligible to enroll in PSEO on a more limited basis (see note below). Students must meet the PSEO residency and eligibility requirements and abide by participation limits specified in Minnesota Statutes, section 124D.09. If a school district determines a pupil is not on track to graduate, she/he may continue to participate in PSEO on a term by term basis.

By March 1 of each year, or three weeks prior to the date a student registers for courses for the following school year (whichever is earlier), schools must provide PSEO information to all students in grades 8-11 and their families. To assist the district in planning, a student must inform the district by May 30 of each year of their intent to enroll in postsecondary courses during the following school year.

There is no charge to PSEO students for tuition, books or fees for items that are required to participate in a course; however, students may incur fees for equipment that becomes their property when the course or program is completed, textbooks that are not returned to the postsecondary institution according to their policies, or for tuition costs if they do not notify the district by May 30 and the district does not waive this date requirement.

Funds are available to help pay transportation expenses for qualifying students to participate in PSEO courses on college campuses. For more information on these funds, access the PSEO Mileage Reimbursement Program Instructions.

Enrolling in a PSEO course does not prohibit a student from participating in activities sponsored by the high school.

School districts must allow a PSEO student reasonable access to the high school building, computers and/or other technology resources during regular school hours to participate in PSEO courses, whether on-line or on campus.

Each year, districts must publish their grade-weighting policy on their website, including a list of courses for which students can earn weighted grades.

All courses taken through the PSEO program must meet graduation requirements. Districts must transcript credits earned in PSEO by a ratio prescribed in statute. Districts have the authority to decide which subject area and standards the PSEO course meets. If there is a dispute between the district and the student regarding the number of credits granted for a particular course, the student may appeal the board's decision to the commissioner. The commissioner's decision regarding the number of credits will be final.

Postsecondary institutions are required to allow PSEO students to enroll in online courses consistent with the institution’s policy regarding postsecondary student enrollment in online courses.

Tenth-grade students may initially enroll in one Career and Technical Education (CTE) PSEO course if they receive a reading proficiency score of “meets” or “exceeds” on the 8^th grade MCA. If 10th graders taking a CTE PSEO course earn at least a grade C in that class, they may take additional postsecondary courses. If the student did not take the MCA in 8^th-grade, another reading assessment accepted by the enrolling postsecondary institution can be substituted. For students with disabilities, there is an alternative option to demonstrate reading proficiency.

For current information about the PSEO program, visit the Minnesota Department of Education’s Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) webpage.

It can be hard to start your college search; there are so many options!  Many colleges are helping ease the process by offering virtual visits.  View this Virtual College Visit List to find the many colleges locally and nation wide that are offering virtual visits.

How can I find out if a college is the correct choice for me?

One of the best ways to see if a college you are considering is a good choice for you is to visit the campus. Plan your visit for an ordinary weekday, if possible. Once you have narrowed your choices, arrange to visit each campus and ask questions that will assist you in decision making. There are many factors to consider in selecting the right college, so you should make a checklist to take along on these visits. The list should include prior arrangements, the actual visit and the follow-up.

Juniors and seniors planning to visit a college must complete a college visit form. In order for the college visit to be counted as a school excused absence, the form must be signed by a parent/guardian and returned to the College & Career Center 24 hours prior to the visit. Juniors and seniors are allowed two school excused college visit days. 

Prior Arrangements for School Visits

• Request a tour on the college's website
• Arrange the visit as early as possible.
• Arrange for an interview if the college recommends it.
• Ask for a conducted tour.
• Ask to talk with students or faculty in your career area.
• Request literature about the college and your career field and read it BEFORE the visit.

The Visit Checklist

• Meet with an admission counselor and have the counselor sign your college visit form.
• Verify admission requirements
• Determine actual college costs; meet with a financial aid advisor if possible
• Take a campus tour
• Attend a class and/or meet with a professor in your academic area
• Talk with students and faculty
• Determine your chances for success: admission, graduation and placement

Follow-up

• Complete college admission paperwork by the recommended deadline
• Follow guidelines listed in the college application process

Suggested Questions To Ask A College Representative

Admission

• Do you have an enrollment deadline?
• What criteria do you use for acceptance?
• Do I need to take an admissions exam?
• When may I tour the campus?

Academics

• What majors/programs do you offer?
• What is the average length of your programs?
• What percent of students who enroll graduate?
• Do you have any international programs?
• Will I have an advisor to help me with scheduling?
• Is tutoring available?

Financial Aid

• What financial aid is available?
• How do I apply?
• Do you have a financial aid deadline?
• Are there any scholarships available through your college?
• What is the total cost of tuition, books, etc. for the program I’m interested in?

Career Services

• What type of job placement assistance do you offer?
• Do you offer part-time job assistance?
• What is your placement rate?
• What types of jobs are your graduates getting?

Student Life

• What type of housing is available?
• How many students attend your school?
• What is the average class size?
• What are some of the student organizations?

Federal Student Assistance expands possibilities for attending college. FAFSA application documents open on October 1st of each year for enrollment the following fall. It's never too early to start planning your future education. Go to FAFSA.

Need help filling the FAFSA?

Families are able to file their FAFSA documents with the help of Financial Aid professionals! MN College Goal workshops are scheduled all around the metro throughout the school year.  Click here for a list of items to bring with you.  

More about the FAFSA:

Federal Student Aid, a part of the U.S. Department of Education, is the largest provider of student financial aid in the nation. At the office of Federal Student Aid, our 1,200 employees help make college education possible for every dedicated mind by providing more than $150 billion in federal grants, loans, and work-study funds each year to more than 15 million students paying for college or career school. We are proud to sponsor millions of American minds pursuing their educational dreams. 

Federal Student Aid is responsible for managing the student financial assistance programs authorized under Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965. These programs provide grants, loans, and work-study funds to students attending college or career school. 

The US Department of Education recommends that the FAFSA form be filled out online. To sign the FAFSA form online students and one parent must create an FSA ID. View this helpful video about creating a FSA ID. For maximum financial assistance, FAFSA forms must be filled out as early in October as possible. Parents and students must have income tax information on the tax forms prior to completing the FAFSA.

Please follow up with your CIHS College & Career Advisor for additional information and/or instructions.

Ready, Set, FAFSA

Ready, Set, FAFSA was a 5-week series of webinars created specifically for students and families to help them prepare for the college-going process.  All sessions were approximately one hour long.  For more information, visit the Ready, Set, FAFSA webpage or click on the webinar session links below.

Need to file the CSS Profile:

Some colleges or universities may require you to file the CSS Profile in addition to the FAFSA.  The CSS Profile application page is run through the College Board's website.  Click this link to start the CSS Profile.                       

Helpful Links for Financial Aid:

MN College Goal

FSA ID 

Financial Aid FAQs

FAFSA: Applying for Aid

Types of Financial Aid

FAFSA Deadlines

Who Gets Aid

How to Repay Your Loans

What are the different types of colleges?

Career Colleges and Technical Colleges (public and private)

Offer programs consisting of courses for a specific certification, license, or diploma. Most courses are hands-on learning experiences with fewer general education courses. Typical admission requirements may include a high school diploma, math, reading and/or writing placement tests, and/or a minimum college entrance exam score. Demand for acceptance in some technical and community college programs is so high that students should apply in the fall of their senior year.

Community Colleges (public and private)

Offer programs consisting of courses for a specific certification, license, diploma, or degree. Most programs are two years in length and include general education courses. Typical admission requirements may include a high school diploma, math, reading and/or writing placement tests, and/or a minimum college entrance exam score.

Four-year Colleges and Universities (public and private)

Offer programs of study to earn a Bachelors degree. Universities offer programs of study at the Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate degree levels. Courses include general education and program specific educational requirements. Typically, admission requirements include a high school diploma, a minimum college entrance exam score, a minimum high school grade point average (GPA) and/or class rank.

***Contact colleges directly for information on specific programs and entrance requirements***

The Minnesota Career Information System (MCIS) is an internet site that provides current information about schooling, careers, and financial-aid for Minnesota students and parents/guardians. Some of the information available includes:

· what high school courses should be taken to be prepared for a certain college program

· select schools and occupations according to your program of study

· links to post-secondary institutions

        Username: cihs1

        Password: welcome 

Learn about the majors and connect with the colleges/universities who teach them:

College Majors 101

Monthly newsletter to help you prepare for your future! Things like taking standardized tests, completing college applications and applying for scholarships and financial aid are part of this publication:

Next Step U

Minnesota Office of Higher Education

Provides information on all the Minnesota financial aid resources and data, school licensure and registration, student and institutional data:

Higher Ed Office

Provides publications on college readiness and awareness, financial aid estimator, application for reciprocity, financial aid and savings plans:

Get Ready for College

Apprenticeships

Today’s Military

Army 

Navy 

Coast Guard 

Marines 

Air Force 

Vocational Information Center

Explore vocational and technical careers, check out the skills employers really want, find a trade school, research technical topics and take a look at the current job market. 

Click Here

What can I do with this Major?

SCSU Career Tip Sheets with helpful information on where you could work with a specific major and resources for more information. 

Click Here

National Center for Education

Links and searches to colleges and universities 

Click Here

Online Education and Degrees

Online education and degree program information 

Click Here

Community College Review

Profiles of community and junior colleges 

Click Here

American Assoc. of Community Colleges 

Click Here

College Stats by School

Click Here

Iowa Association of Independent Colleges and Universities

The Iowa Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (IAICU) advocates for 30 member institutions ranging in enrollment from 500 to 6,000 students.

Click Here

Iowa Public Universities and Special Schools

This site contains information on the institutions in the University of Iowa System. 

Click Here

Minnesota Career Colleges

The Minnesota Career College Association represents 17 private post-secondary schools and colleges, which are accredited by an accrediting agency recognized by the United States Department of Education

Click Here

Minnesota Private Colleges & Universities

A liberal arts education from one of Minnesota’s 17 private colleges and universities broadens horizons, sharpens communication and decision-making skills and equips students for participating in work and society

Click Here

Minnesota State Colleges

With campuses in 46 communities, Minnesota State Colleges and Universities offer many educational choices across the state. Click on a location to go to a profile of the college or university that interests you

Click Here

Minnesota Transfer Students

If you are a student planning to transfer to a college or university in Minnesota, you have a tremendous amount of information to consider. MnTransfer offers you "Keys for Transfer Success" an easy step-by-step process which gets you through transfer without the hassles

Click Here

North Dakota Colleges & Universities

Organized as a system in 1990, the North Dakota University System is made up of 11 public colleges and universities governed by the State Board of Higher Education. The NDUS includes two doctoral universities, two master's degree-granting universities, three universities that offer bachelor's degrees and five two-year colleges that offer associate and trade/technical degrees

Click Here

South Dakota Public Universities and Special Schools

This site contains information on the institutions in the University of South Dakota System 

Click Here

Wisconsin Association of Independent Colleges and Universities

This site contains information on Wisconsins’ private, nonprofit (or independent) colleges and universities and their 57,000 students

Click Here

Wisconsin Colleges & Universities

This site contains information on the institutions in the University of Wisconsin System including 13 universities, 13 freshman-sophomore Colleges and UW-Extension. The information is provided for you and your family by the Higher Education Location Program (UW HELP) and all campuses of the UW System

Click Here

Wisconsin Technical Colleges

Graduates of Wisconsin technical colleges get the education and training that provides skills to compete in today's competitive technical job market

Click Here

University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota is one of the most comprehensive public universities in the United States and ranks among the most prestigious. It is both the state land-grant university, with a strong tradition of education and public service, and the state's primary research university, with faculty of national and international reputation 

Click Here

Online College search tool

Click Here

The Minnesota Career Information System (MCIS) is an Internet-based system that combines a wealth of career, educational and labor market information into one comprehensive, easy-to-use exploration tool.

To learn more visit https://portal.mncis.intocareers.org/

Login Information:

Students - Log in with Clever. 

Parents - Username:cihs1 Password: welcome

High School Transcripts

All official high school transcripts for the purpose of college or military admissions are ordered through Parchment and not directly through the high school Counseling Office. All transcripts cost approximately $6.60 each. Click here for directions.  You should allow 2-5 business days for your request(s) to be processed and available for download by the destination. It's always a good idea to call the college(s) after this time period to check the status of your application(s). 

PLEASE NOTE: Students who need transcripts for scholarship purposes can request FREE official paper copies. Additionally, students who are eligible for the free and/or reduced lunch program qualify for four (4) transcript fee waivers for admissions purposes. 

All transcript inquires should be directed to Jennifer Heath, Administrative Assistant, in the Counseling Office at 763-689-6006 or via email. 

 Student Directions for Parchment

College Transcripts

Click here for a complete list of College In the Schools (CIS) courses offered at CIHS.  Click here for help on determining which type of transcript you need.

College transcripts from the following institutions can be ordered from the National Clearinghouse website:

• Anoka-Ramsey Community College
• St. Cloud State University
• St. Cloud Technical & Community College

College transcripts from the following institutions can be ordered from Parchment:

• University of Minnesota-Twin Cities 

OR, you can order your transcript directly from the college's website:

• Anoka-Ramsey Community College 
• Bethel University
• St. Cloud Technical & Community College
• St. Cloud State University
• University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

AP Credit Transfers

Click here to access the Advanced Placement credit transfer website.There is a fee of $15.00 per college. Requests generally take one week to process from the date they are received.

Articulated College Credit Transfers

Click here for a tutorial on how to send Articulated College Credits.