Running Start

• Where are your academic strengths? This program is for students who prefer a less structured environment with more independent study required and desire the fast pace of college courses. Credit earned is based on regular course work and assessments. If high stakes, comprehensive exams such as Advanced Placement (AP) are not your thing, this may be a great option for you to earn college credit. Students must also be socially and emotionally ready for the college environment. College classes are designed for adult learners. Contemporary issues of our society are actively discussed in classrooms, and content is not censored for younger students.
• How will these credits transfer to higher education institutions? Scroll down to "How are Credits Earned?" to learn more.
• Is it important that all credits and grades appear on a college transcript? All Running Start credits and grades will appear on a college transcript. Students start a college transcript when they take their first college class. It will stay with them throughout their college careers.
• Is location important? Students take Running Start classes at the college and follow the college academic schedule which can differ from the regular LWSD schedule. Students provide their own transportation to and from the college.
• Cost: Free tuition (up to 21 college credits). Students pay for class and student fees, books and other supplies needed for class. Some low-income students may qualify for a fee waiver. This is a substantial savings at the same college or university.

1. Who teaches: The instructors at the college you choose to attend. 
2. What credits:
   • High school credits:  Five college credits with the Running Start program count for one high school credit. 
   • College Credits: College credits earned in the Running Start program generate a college transcript and transfer to most colleges or universities. 
     • College credits earned in the Running Start program are widely accepted in Washington State colleges and universities. Learn more here: Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges Course Equivalency Guides 
     • Transferring credits to private colleges or out-of-state colleges or universities: Transfer crediting varies from institution to institution. Search college name and transfer equivalency guide to research transferability of credits to potential institutions. 
3. Where: 
   • Classes are taken at the college. Some classes are taught remotely or a hybrid of on campus and remote. 

Registration information is available beginning in February for the following school year. High schools require that students attend a Running Start information session at their high school (or review online materials) as well as the Running Start information session at the college where they plan to enroll, such as Bellevue College.

Each LWSD high school has a Running Start page on their website with specific information for their school.

Questions? Review your school’s Running Start webpage for more information:

• Eastlake High School
• Emerson High School
• International Community School
• Juanita High School
• Lake Washington High School
• Redmond High School
• Tesla STEM High School - Reach out to counselors for Running Start information

OSPI documents:

• Running Start enrollment guide
• Running Start FAQ

Colleges:

• Bellevue College
• Lake Washington Institute of Technology
• CWU Sammamish
• Cascadia College
• Edmonds College