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Credits earned at SCC and SFCC are transferable to all Washington state public colleges and universities. Private and out-of-state school also may accept Running Start transfer credits. That being said, each receiving institution has its own requirements so it's important to understand the specific transfer policies of the school(s) you are interested in attending.
Running Start classes are tuition free up to 15 credits, saving thousands of tuition dollars. Due to recent changes in legislation, you may owe tuition. You are allowed a maximum of 15 credits tuition-free based on your combined high school and college class load. Mandatory fees are the responsibility of Running Start students and their families. These fees may be waived for income-eligible students.
Complete the new Enrollment Verification Form with your high school counselor to see how many tuition-free college credits you are allowed. Credits above the allowable amount result in tuition charges. College classes below 100 level also will result in tuition charges. Tuition charges are in addition to lab and course fees that Running Start students already pay.
NEW! 2011-12 Running Start legislation FAQs
Students are responsible for the following costs:
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One-time application fee
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$25
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Registration fee
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$10/quarter
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College placement testing
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$30
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Technology fee
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$4/credit, not to exceed $40/quarter
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Comprehensive fee (SCC ONLY)
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$40/quarter
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Other lab and course fees are based on courses taken
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For a list of these fees go to the CCS iCatalog, then click Tuition and Fees |
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Mandatory fees will be waived for income-eligible Running Start students who provide documentation showing they are or have been eligible for free or reduced lunch any time in the last five years.
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It is the student's responsibility to provide his/her college with a verification of eligibility letter
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- Students who are registered in a Washington public school district. Private and home school students must register, but not necessarily attend, at the public school in the district where you live.
- They are in 11th or 12th grade by the first quarter of Running Start.
- They acheive college-level scores on the college's assessment test.
Successful Running Start students have good study skills, self-discipline and motivation. It is a wonderful opportunity for high school students seeking greater academic challenges. It can also be a great alternative for students who find the traditional high school experience does not meet their needs. Running Start students must be prepared for the independence, fast pace and time demands of college classes.
Here are some things to consider:
- Community college classes are taught at a faster pace than high school, often covering as much material in one quarter (about 12-13 weeks) as some high school classes do in one year.
- Community college classes also require more prep and study time -- up to two hours for each hour of class.
- Community college classes and programs occasionally tackle sensitive subjects, including sex, violence and religion. Class discussions are open and candid.
- The community colleges operate on a quarter system. That means college and high school holidays and vacation periods differ. Running Start students must attend their college classes even if their high school isn't in session.
- Running Start students are responsible for following their college code of conduct, attending class, seeking academic help and addressing problems directly with their instructors. As mandated by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, Running Start student records are confidential and can only be accessed by the student. Parents cannot contact instructors or other school personnel on their student's behalf.
- Running Start students must maintain a 2.0 grade point average or better.
There are many benefits to students who do Running Start.
- While in Running Start, students (and their families) can save thousands in tuition dollars and reach educational goals sooner.
- Students can take challenging classes not offered at their high schools to advance their education.
- Students who choose their classes wisely earn credits that transfer to four-year colleges and universities.
1. College classes are more demanding and require more study time than high school classes.
2. Students must still fulfill all high school graduation requirements.
3. Students must pay for books and transportation.
The four-year college or university ultimately decides which classes it accepts. However, we’ve helped thousands of students transfer over the years, and we’re pretty good at it. Take the right classes and transfer to a Washington university, and most students will be in good shape.
Planning on transferring to a private university? Contact them before registering for classes!
Completed college classes may earn both high school and college credit. One five-credit class at the college equals one high school credit. Graduation requirements are established by each high school. Students must consult with their high school counselors each quarter to determine course equivalency for graduation requirements.
1. Complete and submit a SCC or SFCC/IEL application for admission with your high school transcript
2. Take a placement test ($30) at SFCC or SCC.
3. Meet with your high school counselor and complete the Enrollment Verification Form to determine how many tuition-free credits you are allowed.
4. Meet your college Running Start counselor prior to registration.
For more information, contact:
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