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Frequently asked questions

Q : How are students selected for the College English Transitions (CET) Program?

A : CET students are chosen from the pool of American, immigrant and permanent resident non-English speaking students who have applied to the University of Minnesota.  Admission decisions are based on an overall assessment of the admission application by a team of University Admissions and TRiO/CET staff.  CET is not for international students.

Potential CET students are non-English speaking first generation college students from low to modest income backgrounds who have demonstrated strong academic potential but who:

• Score less than 18 on the ACT English test or less than 420 on the SAT Verbal or:

• Be an immigrant who is a permanent resident with less than 8 years in US school systems.

Potential CET students who meet admission criteria will be asked to take the Michigan English Language Battery [MELAB] or the Test of English as a Foreign Language [TOEFL].

University admission through CET is offered to permanent residents for whom English is not the first language and who score 65-80 on the MELAB test, or 51-79 on the TOEFL.

Q : What are the advantages of studying in this program?

A : There is a difference between the English language skills necessary to communicate with people and be successful in high school and the academic vocabulary, reading, and writing skills necessary to do well at the University.  CET provides an opportunity to really focus on academic English while earning credit toward graduation.

Q : How do I know if I have been accepted?

A : The Admission Office will send you a letter of acceptance to both the University and the CET program.

Q : Where, when and how do I register for classes in this program?

A : You will register for classes during your required University orientation session during the summer prior your first term at the University.  Advisors will help you register for courses appropriate for your individual needs and goals.

Q : What about financial aid?

A : Contact the University Office of Student Finance.  You can also apply for federal financial aid.  High school counselors, TRiO Upward Bound and Educational Talent Search and Admissions Possible offices also have information on how to apply for financial aid.

Q : What if my major is not in the College of Education and Human Development?

A : Students work with an advisor on developing a plan that will prepare them for their major whether it’s in CEHD or another University college.  Students usually apply to their major during the second year of college.