Steps for new Running Start student(s),
- Prior to registration, attend an in-person or virtual Running Start information session at your chosen college. SHS will host Running Start parent information meetings on February 26, 2026 and March 19, 2026 from 6:00-7:30 pm. It is mandatory that you attend one of the Running Start information sessions at either your chosen college or SHS.
- On your chosen college’s website, fill out an application to the college as a Running Start student. (Please DO NOT fill out the regular college application to avoid being billed). Applications are at no cost to you or your student as long as they apply as a Running Start student. Once accepted, you will receive an email from your selected college that provides you with your college student ID and next steps to take.
- Students will then need to sign up for the Accuplacer test for Reading, Writing, and Math through their college’s website. The Accuplacer tests cost between $20-$25 per test. If you are free or reduced lunch eligible, the fee may be lower per the college. Contact your selected college for more information. Students may be eligible to bypass Accuplacer testing if they’ve met certain academic requirements:
- ➔Reading/Writing Accuplacer substitutions - AP or 1B English grades of a B or better on high school transcripts, SBA scores – competed in grade 10 –Level 3 in ELA, PSAT scores in reading/writing, SAT scores in reading/writing, ACT scores in reading/writing (colleges determine score requirements.)
- ➔Math Accuplacer substitutions – Algebra 2 or Pre Calculus grades of a B or better on high school transcripts, PSAT, SAT or ACT math scores (colleges determine score requirements.)
- Make an appointment with your SHS counselor to complete a Running Start contract. Bring your Accuplacer scores or equivalencies along with you to your appointment. SHS counselors will work with your student to overview their graduation requirements and align them with their Running Start goals. During this appointment, SHS counselors will also go over a form called an RSEVF – which is the approval for college courses and tuition payment through Running Start. ***DO NOT register for classes prior to meeting with your SHS counselor.
- Following their appointment with their SHS counselor, your student will need to sign up for an appointment with their college Running Start advisor to process the RSEVF form.
- Once processed, students will be able to register for classes. Check your college email for steps on how to register. Remember, do not register for classes before meeting with your SHS counselor!
*** Reminder, Running Start funds only cover course tuition, so all other costs (books, supplies, equipment required by your college classes) are paid by the student or the family. ***Cost can average from $300-$800 per quarter.
- For further questions or information, please contact your SHS counselors:
Running start FAQs: https://ospi.k12.wa.us/sites/default/files/2023-10/rs-faqs-august-2023.pdf