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Policy IHCDA

Post-Secondary Enrollment Options

The intent of this policy is to establish the requirements for student enrollment in post-secondary courses taken  before high school graduation. 

  1. Eligible Institutions 

Students may take courses at eligible post-secondary institutions within Maine, which include the  University of Maine System, the Community College System, and Maine Maritime Academy. 

  1. Student Eligibility Requirements 

  • A student may take no more than two courses per semester and four courses per academic year,  unless said requirements is waived by the school principal. 

  • A student must meet the following criteria prior to enrolling in a post-secondary course: 

Note: The following are statutory requirements:  

  1. Have a minimum “B” average (or 3.0 on a scale of a 4.0) in his/her courses overall; 

  2. Meet the course admission standards of the eligible institution; 

  3. Provide evidence of parent/guardian approval for taking the course; and 

  4. Obtain approval from the principal and guidance counselor. The student must meet with his/her  guidance counselor to develop a plan describing how the course will help the student meet  graduation requirements in order to obtain approval.  

  • Exceptions to Eligibility Requirements: 

A student enrolled in grade 11 or 12 who does not meet the “B” (3.0) average in his/her courses overall  is eligible to take post-secondary courses provided that he/she; 

  1. Has been assessed and received a recommendation to take the course from the school administration;  and 

  2. Has been approved for participation in the course by an eligible institution. 


  1. Awarding of Credits: 

The eligible institution shall grant full credit to any student who successfully completes a course. High school graduation credit for a course taken under this policy shall be awarded as follows:

  • The course must meet for a minimum of one semester. 

  • The student must earn a passing grade in the course. 

  • Attendance must satisfy the instructor’s requirements. 

  • If the above criteria are met, the student shall receive one(1) credit for each course awarded  college credit. 

  1. Financial Assistance: 

  • South Portland School Department does not pay the cost of tuition or fees associated with college  courses. The Maine Department of Education provides full tuition waivers to the Maine public university and  community college system. Subject to availability, student tuition costs can be met in this way. 

  • The student and his/her parent/guardian are responsible for paying for all textbooks, course  fees, and transportation costs. 

  1. School Reporting Requirements: 

The Superintendent shall ensure that information concerning post-secondary enrollment options is  made available to parents and students. 

Legal Reference: 20-A MRSA § 4771 et seq. 


Adopted: August 14, 2000 

Revised: October 10, 2007 

Revised: March 9, 2020

*Please excuse any formatting errors.