Earn Your College Degree & H.S. Diploma

As a junior or senior in high school, you can enroll at Highline College through the Running Start program and take college classes tuition-free! Students earn college credits that can count toward both a high school diploma and college degree.

With careful planning, these classes will apply to both your high school graduation requirements and an Associate of Arts (AA) or Associate of Science (AS) degree –– your choice!

Save Money - Get a Running Start Next Quarter

The Running Start program is available fall, winter and spring quarters. 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.

You may enroll simultaneously in high school and college classes or solely in college classes. The program saves you money because college tuition is paid for through Running Start. You are only responsible for books and fees.

Before getting started, verify that you meet the eligibility requirements and are aware of the application deadline for the Running Start program.

  • Beginning in 2023-2024, Washington State legislation has increased the number of college credits covered by the Running Start program each quarter. 

Running Start Eligibility

  • Be enrolled in a Washington State public high school, charter school, or tribal compact school (homeschool and private school students should contact their local public high school/district for enrollment procedures to participate in Running Start).
  • High school junior or senior standing (as determined by your high school/district).

Steps to Enroll

Running Start students must complete a series of steps to enroll in Running Start at Highline College. By completing these steps well in advance of the first first day of classes, you will be prepared for a successful beginning to your college experience.

View Steps and get started today!

Questions?

The Running Start department provides support to prospective and enrolled Running Start students with enrolling, navigating college, and achieving their educational goals through academic advising and support services.

Visit Running Start Website

 
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EDUCATION THAT MATTERS

Apply, Enroll, Succeed!

 

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