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Running Start

Overview

The Running Start program allows eligible high school juniors and seniors to earn college credit while meeting high school graduation requirements.

In Washington State, students may attend classes at any community college if they:

  • Arrange their own transportation

  • Meet the college’s minimum qualifying test score

  • Complete the college’s orientation process

By participating in Running Start, students can explore college-level coursework, prepare for future careers, and graduate from high school with both diploma credits and a strong foundation for higher education.

Important Details Before Students Enroll

Tuition and Forms

  • The State of Washington pays tuition for up to 15 college credits per quarter.

  • Students must complete an Enrollment Verification Form (EVF). Some colleges use a form each quarter, while others use a single form for the entire school year.

Campus Expectations

  • Students should not be on their high school campus during the school day unless you are enrolled in a class there.

  • If you have a schedule conflict between high school and college classes, students' high school classes take priority.

Scheduling Challenges

  • Part-time Running Start students may face scheduling conflicts between college and high school courses.

  • Many college classes fill quickly. Students should prepare to register early to secure their preferred classes.

Graduation and Credit Information

  • Students must still meet all Puyallup School District and Washington State graduation requirements.

  • Grades from college courses count toward the student's high school GPA. Keep in mind that the college’s grading scale may differ from the Puyallup School District.

  • College grades stay on students' permanent college transcript and may affect your ability to transfer to a four-year university.

  • College credits may not transfer to private or out-of-state colleges. Students should always check with their intended college to confirm transferability.

Athletic Expectations

  • College classes usually move faster and include more homework with less in-class time and faculty support.

  • Students who are not successful may be placed on academic probation or removed from the Running Start program if grades don’t improve.

Limitations and Logistics

  • Running Start does not cover summer classes or high school completion courses.
  • Families do not have access to student college records, transcripts, grades, or attendance.
  • Students should follow the college’s academic calendar for deadlines, finals, breaks, and other key dates.

Running Start Programs and PSD Course Equivalents

Click a panel to view the course equivalents and access the college's running start program website.

Note: Bolded terms are the high school graduation requirements. The college course listed next to each is the equivalent class students can take to fulfill that requirement.

Additional Running Start Information

Resources


Pierce College - High School Graduation Requirements