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Running Start is a dual credit program for high school juniors and seniors to enroll in college-level classes tuition-free. Students can earn college credits that count toward both a high school diploma and college degree.

Admission Steps

Running Start Student detailed admission instructions.

New Running Start students should complete all steps to enroll prior to the deadline of the quarter you plan to start. Below is a simplified list of steps to enroll as a Running Start student. Need more details? View the Running Start Student detailed admission instructions.

  1. Apply to Highline College

    Complete the online admissions applicationVisit our How to Apply page for step-by-step instructions. 

    Apply to Highline Now

  2. Activate Student Accounts

    Activate your ctclink, email, and Canvas accounts. The ctcLink Student Homepage is the all-access account that will remain with you throughout your time at Highline College. Visit our Student Accounts webpage for more info and instructions. 

    Activate Your Accounts

  3. Determine your English and Math Placement

    Determine your English and math placement by working with an Entry Advisor. The purpose of placement is to help you determine your starting point for English and math classes in college based on your academic experience. 

    English Placement:
    There are several options to determine your English placement such as high school GPA, Smarter Balanced Assessment scores, Accuplacer Reading assessment, and more. 

    Math Placement:
     Math placement is recommended if you plan to take math or sciences classes at Highline College, or if your goal is to earn an associate degree during your participation in Running Start. Visit Placement and Testing to learn more about math placement options.

    Visit Entry Advising

  4. Complete New Student Enrollment Packet After you have determined your placement, complete and submit your Running Start new student enrollment packet with your high school counselor and parent/guardian. A new student enrollment packet includes:
    • Running Start Enrollment Verification Form (RSEVF)
    • Running Start Student Responsibility Agreement
    • Running Start Fee Waiver & Textbook Assistance Application (optional)

    RUNNING START NEW STUDENT PACKET

  5. Complete Running Start New Student Orientation

    After your new student enrollment packet is processed, you will receive an email from us sent to your myHighline student email with information on how to complete the Running Start New Student Orientation (RSNSO).

  6. Enroll in Classes

    Enroll in classes once running student class enrollment has begun. It’s easy to enroll using ctcLink. View the tutorial on how to enroll in classes using ctcLink.

    Get Enrolled in Classes 

  7. Pay Tuition & Fees

    Pay for your classes by the quarterly payment deadline. After you register for classes, pay your tuition and fees online on ctcLink before the tuition and fee deadline (if applicable). Running Start students who qualify for the Running Start Fee Waiver and Textbook Assistance program will have their quarterly fees waived and will have access to a voucher to help pay for a portion of the cost of required course textbooks. 

    Pay Tuition & Fees 

For questions or assistance enrolling, please contact us any of the following ways:

 
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