Running Start does just that: It gives high school juniors and seniors a running start on college-level classes. Those classes count twice: once towards fulfillment of high school graduation requirements and again for college credit. Some Running Start students have been able to graduate from high school and at the same time receive their Associate of Arts degree from Seattle Central Community College.

Application Procedures

Qualifications:

To qualify for the program a student must:

• Be under 21 years of age and enrolled in any Washington State public high school or school district.
• Be a junior or senior in high school.
• Place in English 101 and/or Math 109/116/141(pre-calculus) on the COMPASS TEST.
• Have parent/ guardian and counselor signatures and approval to participate in the program.

Procedures for acceptance:

1. Come to the Running Start office (1102 C1) with a picture ID to get a student ID number for testing. Testing fee is $17.00 however a fee waiver eligibility form for students on free or reduced lunch is available in the Running Start office (note form must be signed by student’s high school counselor).
2. Take the COMPASS TEST. No appointment is required.
3. Take test results to the Running Start office, fill out an Enrollment packet, and schedule an advising/ registration appointment with a Running Start Advisor.
4. Meet with a high school counselor and complete the pre-enrollment form included in the application packet.
5. Bring the completed application packet and a copy of your test scores to your advising/ registration appointment.
6. Attend the mandatory Running Start Orientation.

Registration dates:

New students are strongly urged to test, meet with a high school counselor, and schedule a Running Start registration appointment before the priority registration dates. The earlier the application process is completed, the better chance students have to get the classes they want. Currently, we accept all qualified applicants.

It is recommended but not mandatory for students to have tested by the following dates:

Planning and class selection:

• Students should meet with their high school counselors and determine what high school requirements are needed.
• Check the quarterly class schedule for course selections by clicking on the class schedule link below: http://seattlecolleges.com/DISTRICT/collegecatalog/schedules.aspx
• Select classes noting the times on the schedule. Remember to plan for the following quarter or semester so that there is no conflict between HS and college schedules.
• The college is on a quarter system and most high schools are on a semester system. Remember to plan for the following quarter or semester so that there is no conflict between HS and college schedules.
• Classes needed for high school graduation should be scheduled fall or winter quarter if possible. Leaving graduation requirements to the last quarter may deny participation in graduation since the spring quarter ends after most high school graduation dates. College faculty are not required to give an evaluation of course work before the final grade.
• Correspondence/seminar classes and classes below 100 level are not covered by Running Start.
• Occupational Education Credits can be earned through such courses as Microcomputers, Business, and Accounting. Volunteer work can also count for college credit.
• Coordinated Studies Programs appeal to new students because classes are interdisciplinary and are focused around a specific topic or subject and are taught by a team of instructors. Students may receive credit and meet requirements in more than one are of study. The classes are structured using multi-media and emphasize both individual and peer group learning strategies/environments. Please contact the Running Start office or refer to the class schedule for more details on these and other course offerings.

Registration for Returning Students

• Returning students will receive a registration appointment in the mail.
• Each quarter students must bring to their registration appointment a completed Pre-Enrollment Form signed and filled out by their counselor and signed by their parents. Students then register with a Running Start advisor or counselor.

Orientation

• All new Running Start students are required to attend an orientation session where they have an opportunity to meet other Running Start students, learn about the many student services available to them, and get a tour of the campus.

Tuition and Fees

• Running Start pays for tuition up to 18 credits.
• Running Start covers only the cost of college level courses. If a student chooses to take a developmental course, e.g., Math 081, the student must pay for the class.
• Students are responsible for the cost of books, transportation, and a $5 student ID card.

Textbooks

• Textbooks become available in the month before classes start. Students might want to call the bookstore (206 587-4148) to make sure books are in.
• The used, less expensive books sell first, so it's good idea for students to go early. Lines can be LONG the first week of school.
• Books cost on average between $25 and $200 per class.
• Used books are sometimes available at a reduced price in the bookstore but in limited quantities.
• Books may be found online through independent booksellers but it is important to purchase the correct edition.
• A full refund is given for books the first two weeks of school with a receipt.
• Some books can be sold back at the end of the quarter, but the refund is much less.
• Students eligible for a free/reduced lunch program at their high school can qualify for a voucher for books. For details contact the Running Start Office.

Staff

Hours