Maximizing dual credit and AFLBS credits to save time and money on your degree
AFLBS students know that studying the Bible is a wise investment of time, but did you know that combining AFLBS and dual credit or PSEO credits can potentially save students thousands of dollars and several semesters of time? These time and cost savings can help you be a good steward of your financial resources.
What is Dual credit?
High school students may earn both high school and college credit for the same course. Shortening your time in college will save time and money. High school students can get acclimated to college-level courses while still having guidance from their parents and/or teachers.
How dual credit works
Credits may be earned two ways:
Option 1: Take a college level course during high school. Classes are offered at participating high schools, community colleges, four-year colleges or universities, or homeschool cooperatives. Courses may be offered on site or online.
Option 2: Take a standardized exam in a specific subject area. Credits may be earned through the following tests:
- Advanced Placement (AP) – AP courses are offered and a standardized test is given. Credits are earned based on the test score. Students may take the test without taking the corresponding class.
- College Level Examination Program (CLEP) – Students prepare for a CLEP test by individualized study or by prior knowledge in a certain area. A minimum test score must be achieved to gain credit.
- International Baccalaureate (IB)
- DANTES Subject Standardized Test (DSST)
Do all colleges and universities accept AP and CLEP credits?
No. If there are colleges that you are interested in attending after high school, check with them in advance to see if they accept AP or CLEP credits.
What if the college I want to attend does not accept AP or CLEP credits?
Instead of testing out of a course, you will need to take the actual course. This can still be done while you are in high school using early college options such as dual enrollment or concurrent enrollment.
What is PSEO and how does it work?
The Postsecondary Enrollment Option (PSEO) program gives eligible 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students living in Minnesota an opportunity to take college or university level courses. Courses count for high school and college simultaneously. Eligibility and admission standards are determined by the state of Minnesota and the postsecondary institution. Classes can be taken online, on-site at the college or university, at high schools, or through homeschool cooperatives.
PSEO FAQs
How much does it cost?
The State of Minnesota pays for tuition and course textbooks.
Are PSEO courses available through Christian colleges?
Yes. There are many Christian colleges that offer PSEO courses.
Are PSEO courses currently available through AFLBS?
No. Approved courses must be nonsectarian in content.
Where can I find more information about PSEO?
http://education.state.mn.us/MDE/fam/dual/pseo/
Do other states have PSEO?
Ohio has the College Credit Plus program.
https://www.ohiohighered.org/ccp/faqs
Do other states allow high school students to take college courses?
Yes. This option is called dual enrollment, concurrent enrollment, or early college, but it is not funded by the state. However, the classes are generally offered at significantly reduced rates compared to regular college tuition. (See also: Tips for earning college credit before AFLBS)
