Are you a high school student interested in starting your college experience?
Whether you have decided to participate in Running Start at Highline College or are still considering, prospective students and families are encouraged to review the information in the following sections to learn more about eligibility requirements, steps to enroll, costs and financial assistance, and student expectations.
What is Running Start?
Running Start is a dual credit program for high school juniors and seniors to take college-level classes tuition-free. Students can participate in Running Start during fall, winter, and spring quarters. Students earn college credits that can count toward both a high school diploma and college degree. With careful planning, it is possible for students who participate in Running Start during their junior and senior years to earn an associate degree or certificate by graduation. Students can take classes in preparation for university transfer or a career in a high demand field through Career Start.
Our staff can help you determine whether Running Start will meet your educational needs and get you started on the enrollment process. Once you are an enrolled student, our Running Start Advisors can help you with navigating the college environment, selecting classes, exploring your educational and career goals, and long-term educational planning.
New for 2023-24 academic year: Washington State legislation has increased the number of college credits covered by the Running Start program each quarter. Additionally, Running Start is available during summer quarter for rising juniors and rising seniors who have remaining enrollment/funding eligibility at the end of the school year. Students and families who are interested are encouraged to contact our office and their high school counselor for more information about these new changes and to plan accordingly.