Post-Secondary Enrollment Options
GENERAL INFORMATION
What Is It?
Post-secondary enrollment options allow public school juniors and seniors to enroll in courses at Colorado public institutions of higher education. The intent of the program is two-fold: (1) to provide students with opportunities for additional academic challenge and rigor, and (2) to offer an alternative educational setting which may stimulate interest and motivation in learning. Tuition is paid by the student's school district when the courses count toward high school graduation.Eligibility
Any public school student enrolled in the 11th or 12th grade and who is not more than 21 years of age may participate. There are no grade or performance requirements except for specific course prerequisites that all students must meet.Cooperative Agreements
After receiving written notice from a student, the high school (if it hasn't already) develops a cooperative agreement with the institution of higher education selected by the student. This agreement defines which courses will be accepted for high school credit, college credit, or both. It also establishes a protocol for tuition payment.How To Participate
- Obtain information:
School districts are required to provide information to eligible students and their parents about the program. Students should direct inquiries to their counselors or principals.
- Determine whether the program is appropriate for you:
Participation will require considerable independence and responsibility. Students should consult their parents, high school counselors, and perhaps other students who have previously done this to decide whether it is an appropriate option at this time.
- Select courses:
Students may take any class for which they meet prerequisites and may take one or more courses up to a full-time schedule. They are encouraged to work with their counselors to decide whether desired courses are appropriate and adequately challenging. When selecting courses, students should also keep in mind that (1) only courses that fulfill high school graduation requirements are eligible for tuition payment from school district funds, and (2) if eligible for high school credit, the grade earned for the college course will be calculated into the high school grade point average.
- Inform the high school:
At least two months prior to the beginning of the selected course(s), students must submit written notice to the school district of their desire to enroll at an institution of higher education. It should include a description of all courses a student intends to take and whether or not high school graduation credit is anticipated for each course.
LINKS FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- More information on the Post Secondary Enrollment Options Act, High School Fast Track Program, and Fast College Fast Jobs Act can be found under "Colorado Revised Statutes" on the Michie Legal Resources site.
- Gifted and Talented Education
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- Is the student considered a high school student or college student?
The student is still enrolled at the high school. Importantly, enrollment in a course is not the same as admission to the institution. The college or university is not required to approve an admission request from the student after high school graduation.
- May the student participate in activities in the high school and college?
The student is eligible for all activities at her/his high school of enrollment. However, the college is not obligated to allow the high school student to participate in any of its activities.
- Does this program include summer school or continuing education programs?
The program does not apply to students enrolled in an institution of higher education during the summer term or for continuing education courses.
- Who pays for transportation, books, and student fees?
Districts are required to cover tuition costs if the course fulfills high school graduation requirements. Tuition does not include transportation, books, and student fees. Although a few districts may absorb these costs, it is usually the student's responsibility.
- What can I do if credit is denied?
The high school determines whether each course fulfills high school graduation requirements. If the high school denies credit, it must inform the student in writing of the reasons for denial, to be sent within 10 working days after receiving the student's written notification of intent to enroll. The school must also provide the student with the district appeal procedures and forms. The student may appeal to the local school board and, if denied, s/he may then appeal to the Colorado State Board of Education. The State Board decision will be final.