Running Start is a program created to allow high school juniors and seniors to enroll in college courses on a tuition-free basis.

The purpose is to provide qualified students an opportunity to take college courses (tuition free) as part of their high school program and receive dual high school and college credit.

Students may enroll in this program when they have achieved junior or senior standing in high school and qualify for the courses they wish to take.

How much does Running Start cost students or parents?

Tuition is waived for all college-level courses! Books, supplies, and transportation are the responsibility of the student. If, for example, a student enrolls in three college level courses, he/she can expect to pay approximately $150.00 for books. (Note: Students who qualify for free or reduced lunch may borrow books from the Running Start office.)

How are my credits calculated for graduation?

Completed college classes may receive both high school and college credit. One five (5) credit class at the college equals one (1) high school credit. Graduation requirements are established by each high school. Students must consult with their high school counselor each quarter to determine course equivalency for graduation requirements. Running Start students will follow the guidelines of their high school counselor and should graduate from that school.

How do students qualify?

Interested high school juniors or seniors, who demonstrate college readiness and who have parental permission, may participate in Running Start. College readiness is determined by the college placement test, either the COMPASS (for native English speakers) or the ESL/COMPASS (for non-native). The COMPASS or SLEP test is mandatory for all students, not just Running Start students. (Learn more about each of these tests.) The placement score determines eligibility for English and/or mathematics courses.

View the schedule of assessment tests. There is no fee for assessments tests, but students must bring high school identification to our cashier for a voucher to enter the test.

Where do students begin?

After testing, students must meet with the Running Start Director for test interpretation and course selection. This advising appointment can be made by phoning (206) 764-5387.

Strengths of the Program

• Eligible students can take advantage of completing up to six quarters of college-level courses at no tuition fee to them.
• They will have an opportunity to experience college level courses while in high school.
• In many cases, they can receive two full years of a college education while completing their high school requirements at the same time.
• Students who excel beyond what the high school can offer, may feel more academically challenged at SSCC. Many students who do not feel connected at the high school may find that SSCC is the place for them, also.
• Courses taken as part of this program must be numbered at 100 or above. Courses numbered below are not considered college level, and the student must pay full tuition for them.
• This program allows students to complete the first two years or college at SSCC free, and transfer those credits to the college of his/her choice. The cost and time savings make this an attractive alternative.

Things to Consider

Students taking college courses should have the maturity, initiative and desire to study independently. The general rule of studying varies from one to two hours of study for each hour in class. Students must be responsible about attending school every day, even if there is a conflict between high school and college vacations.

Transportation is the responsibility of the student.

Students must check with their high school counselor for information regarding graduation requirements, annual school pictures, graduation photos, deadlines for graduation, the application, cap and gown, and other information regarding high school.

Course Content

College courses are taught at a much faster pace than those taught in a high school. For example, in high school, a course is generally taught over the course of one year; college math is taught within 10 or 11 weeks. Often, time is given in the high school to study in class. In college, homework is expected to be done outside the classroom.

Cost

Taxes normally sent to the high school to pay for a student's education will be sent to the College to pay for tuition. Books, lab fees, supplies, transportation, and photo identification expenses are the responsibility of the student. (There may be exceptions for students qualifying for free or reduced lunch.)

Parking

Students wishing to park on campus must pay to park in one of the parking lots. Because parking is limited, a parking permit must be purchased at the time of registration. Free parking is available on the street for those who do not wish to park on campus.

Attendance

Students will be expected to attend classes every day. Some faculty may not take daily attendance, but may give a "pop quiz" that would count toward a final grade. Students need to be prepared for class and seek help early should a problem arise.

Parents will not be contacted if their son/daughter does not attend class, as students will be treated the same as any other college student. If a parent wishes to speak with the Running Start coordinator or an instructor regarding attendance or grades, he/she will need to have an authorization form signed by the student on file with the Running Start Director.

Special Aids

Free tutoring is available for students attending SSCC. Tutoring is for students who want to be successful in college. Tutoring requests are available in the Running Start office or in the tutoring center. Working with a tutor may make a difference between getting high or mediocre grades.

To help the students focus on an educational career, SSCC offers career counseling for students. The career counselors will provide one hour of free counseling and may suggest career testing. Among these are: the Strong Interest Inventory (SII), which compares your interests with people in a variety of occupations, or the Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), which helps to match personality type with career environments. To schedule a career assessment with a counselor, please phone (206) 764-5387.

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