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Running Start

The Running Start program offers qualified students the opportunity to earn college credits and/or an Associate's degree before graduating from high school. Students may choose to enroll either part or full time at any participating community college. If enrolling part time, students are responsible for choosing courses to fit the high school schedule as well. Running Start credits are transferrable to public and private colleges and universities, but how those credits are transferred is up to the college or university.

Each community college has its own entrance requirements and application procedures. Tuition is free, but students must pay for fees, books and materials and must provide their own transportation.

It is advisable to make an appointment with a counselor at the community college once a student has been accepted to help create the college portion of the educational plan. High school counselors assist in helping students to understand the college equivalents needed in order to complete a high school diploma, but they do not assist students in choosing courses that transfer to colleges and universities or those that will complete an associate degree.

To view the various running start programs in the area, click on the appropriate link below.

If you are interested in learning more about Running Start, please contact your school counselor.

Contact

If you are interested in learning more about Running Start, please contact your school counselor.

Tuition is free up to an amount based on the number of courses students take on the Snohomish High School campus.

Number of SHS Classes Number of Funded College Credits
0 21
1 18
2 15
3 12
4 9
5 or more 6

 

SHS Running Start- Things to Consider

Some information to consider about Running Start:

  • Families are responsible for transportation, books, and college fees. 
  • Students must be independent and prepared for the rigor of college-level work. 
  • Families who wish to monitor student progress must do so through the student.  SHS personnel do not have the ability to monitor course progress, and college professors will not communicate with parents directly unless a student has waived their FERPA right at the college.
  • Students who are on the Snohomish High School campus for one or more courses must abide by SHS daily schedule; college course times must not conflict with SHS schedules.
  • Students who wish to earn a Snohomish High School diploma are required to meet all graduation requirements. 
  • Students who enter a public baccalaureate institution directly from high school must meet minimum college admissions standards and will apply as freshmen regardless of college credit status.
  • Students are responsible for verifying transferability to their intended college or university. Most Washington colleges have transfer credit equivalencies listed on their “Transfer Credit” webpages.  Courses may fulfill elective or academic credit depending on the stated policies.
  • Students who participate are creating a college transcript, and the college GPA is affected as a result.