ApoK, my curiosity was piqued so I looked up the pertinent MN statute. the window tint violation is, in fact, classified as a petty misdemeanor (in some states the term is "simple misdemeanor"). this is considered less serious than a straight, or gross, misdemeanor. however, generally any misdemeanor - simple or no - is technically a criminal offense (I am not familiar with MN law, however, so I can't say how it's considered there). in any event, it's odd that the officer told you it was just a fine, if indeed it is some form of misdemeanor. are you still an undergraduate? if so, perhaps your school has someone you can consult re: this? in any event, talk to a MN lawyer and find out if in MN petty misdemeanor = criminal offense. and if it indeed does, I really wouldn't lose any sleep over it. explain the situation to your schools but it hardly seems like something over which they'd yank your acceptances.
it's curious, though: in your original post, you stated that the car wasn't yours, then in a later post you stated that you are having the tint removed (which would indicate that it is your car)...
also, for ppl who think this law is "ridiculous" - maybe it seems that way, but there has to be a reason it was written. I believe the intent behind this statute is for the benefit of law enforcement. they need to be able to see what's going on inside cars that are traveling on public roadways, for obvious reasons of public safety. they need to be able to identify the driver in the event of a crime, hit and run, etc., they need to be able to see inside the car when they approach it after pulling it over for speeding or something (to see if anyone inside is reaching for a weapon). it's not one of those silly "blue" laws you hear about (like, it's illegal to lead a cow across the street on Sundays), there are actual safety reasons for it
