Overview of Running Start at CVA
Running Start is a dual enrollment program that allows eligible high school juniors and seniors to take high school and college level courses at Washington's community and technical colleges, as well as select public universities. Students can earn both high school and college credit simultaneously while earning their high school diploma.
Typically, the best provider of these services is your resident school district, as they have unique relationship and insight to local community colleges, however CVA believes in personalized learning for every student and will work to meet your needs. Notably, CVA staff do not have access to Running Start enrollment systems and will be unable to assist with the Running Start enrollment process, transcripts, grading issues, grades, etc.
Key Considerations for Running Start Students
- Running Start students must be self-motivated and prepared for the rigor of college courses.
- Participation in Running Start does not impact NCAA eligibility but requires proper transcript documentation.
- Students can withdraw from courses, but they must follow college policies and notify CVA to avoid academic consequences.
- If a student moves out of Washington State, they will no longer be eligible for Running Start funding.
If you or your student is interested in pursuing Running Start, the following steps may assist as you navigate this process.
Step 1: Research and select a college
- Identify a community or technical college that offers Running Start.
- Consider online course availability if unable to attend in person.
- Review college course offerings to ensure alignment with CVA graduation requirements. (Meet with CVA staff)
Step 2: Apply to the College’s Running Start Program
- Visit the college's Running Start webpage and follow its application process.
- Submit necessary placement test scores or alternative qualification materials.
- Complete the college’s Running Start application before the deadline.
Step 3: Complete the Running Start Enrollment Verification Form (RSEVF)
- Download the Running Start Enrollment Verification Form (RSEVF) from the college’s Running Start page.
- Schedule a meeting with a CVA staff to determine how college courses will count toward high school graduation.
- Have the RSEVF signed by both CVA and the college before registering for classes.
Step 4: Register for College Courses
- Use the approved RSEVF to register for college classes within the allowed 1.2 Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) limit.
- Keep in mind that students exceeding 15 credits per quarter may need to pay out-of-pocket tuition costs.
Step 5: Maintain Enrollment at CVA
- Students must remain actively enrolled at CVA while participating in Running Start.
- Ensure all college coursework meets CVA’s high school graduation requirements.
- Maintain communication with a CVA counselor regarding academic progress and schedule adjustments.
- Students must be enrolled in at least two CVA courses to maintain eligibility.
Step 6: Understand Financial Responsibilities
Tuition is covered for eligible Running Start credits (up to 15 per quarter), but students are responsible for:
- Course fees
- Textbooks
- Transportation (if attending in person)
- Low-income students may qualify for fee waivers and book assistance by providing Free or Reduced-Price Lunch (FRPL) eligibility documentation.
Step 7: Track Progress and Plan for the Future
- Keep a record of earned college credits for both high school and future college applications.
- Work with a CVA counselor to ensure all graduation requirements are met.
- Research how Running Start credits transfer to four-year universities for continued education.
CVA Course Equivalencies
Typically, the following courses are considered for dual credit toward both an Associate of Arts (AA) degree and a high school diploma:
Core Subjects for Dual Credit
English Language Arts:
- English Composition (ENGL& 101, 102)
- Technical Writing (ENGL& 235)
- Literature Courses (American, British, World Literature)
Mathematics:
- College Algebra (MATH& 107, 141)
- Pre-Calculus (MATH& 142)
- Statistics (MATH& 146)
- Calculus (MATH& 151, 152)
Science (with or without lab component):
- Biology (BIOL& 100, 160, 211)
- Chemistry (CHEM& 121, 161)
- Physics (PHYS& 114, 221)
- Environmental Science (ENVS& 101)
Social Studies:
- U.S. History (HIST& 146, 147, 148)
- World History (HIST& 126, 127, 128)
- Political Science / Civics (POLS& 101, 202)
- Economics (ECON& 201, 202)
Fine Arts:
- Art Appreciation (ART& 100)
- Music Appreciation (MUSC& 105)
- Drama or Theatre (DRMA& 101)
World Languages:
- Spanish (SPAN& 121, 122, 123)
- French, German, ASL, or other available languages
- Health & Physical Education:
- Nutrition (NUTR& 101)
- Health & Wellness (PE 100-level courses)
- Career and Technical Education (CTE) Pathways:
- Business and Marketing (BUS& 101)
- Computer Science (CS& 141, 142)
- Education & Teaching Pathways (EDUC& 101)
- Criminal Justice (CJ& 101)
Graduation Requirement Equivalencies
5 College Quarter Credits = 1 High School Credit
*Students need to coordinate with CVA staff to ensure college courses meet specific high school graduation requirements.