Running Start is a statewide program created by the Washington State Legislature that allows qualified high school juniors and seniors to enroll in local colleges to fulfill high school graduation requirements and earn college credit at the same time. While enrolled in high school, students can earn college credit at the same time and work toward their high school graduation, potentially earning an associate degree in the process.
Running Start is not a good fit for every student, but it is a great way for some to transition to higher education. A placement test will determine whether they qualify for enrollment in college-level courses. For more information, please contact your high school counselor.
Local Running Start Programs
There are fees associated with the Running Start program, but fee waivers are available to students who are foster youth, who qualify for free or reduced-price lunch, or who receive state-funded public assistance. Those fee waivers are coordinated through the college in which your student is enrolled.