What is Running Start?

Running Start is an educational partnership between SVC and the high schools. Running Start was created by the Washington state legislature to expand educational options for high school students. It allows eligible juniors and seniors in high school to take college level courses.

Students receive both high school and college credit for completed classes. The high school determines how college classes and credits apply toward high school graduation requirements. Students may enroll:

• Simultaneously in high school and college classes, OR
• Solely in college classes

How Does Running Start Work?

• Students take courses that satisfy both high school and college requirements.
• Classes must be "college level" (course number 100 or higher).
• 5 college credits are equal to 1 high school credit.
• The cost of books, supplies, and non-course related fees are the responsibility of the student.
• Eligible students may enroll in up to 18 credits per quarter through Running Start.
• A maximum of six consecutive college quarters is allowed for eligible high school juniors. A maximum of three consecutive college quarters is allowed for eligible high school seniors. Summer Quarter is not funded by Running Start.
• Transferability of college credits, and whether they apply to a degree at a 4 year institution, may vary. Students should work closely with a SVC counselor to choose their courses wisely.

Who Qualifies for Running Start?

High school juniors and seniors who have earned a cumulative GPA of 2.25 or higher.

Running Start provides:

• An opportunity to take classes not offered at high schools.
• Advanced level courses offering a greater academic challenge.
• A college environment which may better suit the students' needs.
• A "Running Start" on college without tuition expense from the students, for up to a maximum of 18 credits per quarter.

Possible Limitations of Running Start:

• The pace of college courses is faster and requires motivation, self-discipline, and independence.
• The classroom environment requires critical thinking and advanced analysis skills.
• High school provides a social network that might not be available in college.
• Transportation is the responsibility of the student.
• Books, supplies, and non-course related fees are the responsibility of the student.
• Scheduling of college classes may conflict with high school classes, holidays, and extracurricular activities.
• Out-of-state universities' acceptance of college credit is an institution by institution decision.

Running Start students should always check with the university they plan to attend regarding transferability of credits.

Expectation of Students at SVC:

• Running Start students are considered "regular" college students.
• Running Start students are eligible for support services, activities, and programs with the exception of athletic participation and federal and state "Financial Aid".
• A parking fee is collected from all students attending the Mt. Vernon Campus of SVC and a current parking permit is required on that campus. Permits can be obtained at the Mt. Vernon Campus Admissions/Registration window or the Whidbey Island Campus Cashier's window.
• Parental release form may be necessary for certain activities.
• SVC follows federal guidelines (FERPA): written permission is required for instructors and staff to share records with parents.