Curious about the free Running Start program for high school students? Here's a webinar to learn more about how you can earn college credits while still in high school.
With Running Start, you can take free classes at a participating college and earn college credit for free — all while completing high school.
With Running Start, you can earn an associate degree or certificate while finishing high school. (You earn your high school diploma and associate degree at the same time.) You can use it to prepare for university or a career after high school.
Who can take Running Start?
- High School Junior or Senior
- Enrolled in a Washington State public high school
- Ready for college-level courses
The best time to learn about Running Start is in 10th grade, when you're a sophomore. You can do the paperwork when you're in 10th grade.. Then, you will be ready to begin Running Start in 11th grade, when you're a junior.
Can homeschool and private school students do Running Start?
Homeschool and students attending private schools may participate in Running Start. First, they must enroll in a public high school and be evaluated as a junior or senior. It's not required to take classes at the public high school to participate in Running Start.
Is Running Start full-time or part-time?
Running Start is flexible. For example, you can participate part-time (classes at high school AND Renton Technical College) or full-time (all classes at Renton Technical College). You can take general education courses or begin a career training program.
How much does Running Start cost?
It's free. There's no cost to enroll in Running Start. You will get free tuition, or reduced cost tuition, up to 15 credits per quarter. (Running Start pays for classes at the 100 and 200 level.) Check with your advisor to make sure all your courses are free. Certain colleges offer fee and book loan programs for those that qualify.
What programs are included in Running Start?
Technical programs offered include automotive, culinary, welding, and certified nursing assistant.
How can you learn more?
Green River College offers a virtual lobby via Zoom where you can ask questions or you can contact them via email at runningstart@greenriver.edu
Renton Technical College is hosting a webinar Wednesday, February 28 at 6 p.m. It's presented by Chelsea Good (Running Start) and Faye Watanabe (CTE Dual Credit) from Renton Technical College.
Please register for the webinar. You will be emailed a link no later than one hour before the program start time. If you do not see an email, check your Junk or Spam folder.
