Running Start at Spokane Falls Community College (SFCC) enables Washington state public high school 11th and 12th graders, who meet eligibility requirements, to enroll in college courses.

Students enrolled in Running Start continue taking classes at their high school or may decide to only take classes at the college. These classes not only count as high school credit, but also count as college credit. This allows students to get a "running start" on their college education and potentially reduce the amount of time and money they spend on college after graduating from high school.

Students registered in a Washington public school district are eligible for Running Start. Private and home school students must register, but not necessarily attend, at the public school in the district where you live. Running Start students must be in 11th or 12th grade by the first quarter of Running Start.

High school students who intend to be Running Start students must apply to SFCC and pass the college’s assessment tests. 

Is it right for you?

We want you to be successful in Running Start. The program takes self-motivation, discipline and excellent study skills. It can be a great opportunity for high school students who want an academic challenge or a different high school experience. But, you need to be prepared for the independence, fast pace and time demands of college classes.

Some things to keep in mind:

• Community college classes are taught at a faster pace than high school, often covering as much material in one quarter (11-13 weeks) as high school classes do in one year.

• Classes require a lot of prep and study time, often up to two hours for each hour of class.

• Classes and programs occasionally discuss sensitive subjects, including sex, violence and religion. Class discussions are open and candid. 

• SFCC operates on a quarter system. That means college and high school holidays and vacation periods often differ from high schools. You still need to attend college classes even if your home high school is not in session.

• As an SFCC student, you are responsible for following the college code of conduct, attending class, seeking academic help and addressing problems directly with instructors. As mandated by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), Running Start student records are confidential and are only accessed by the student. Parents cannot contact instructors or other school personnel on their student’s behalf. 

• Running Start students should maintain a 2.0 grade point average or they could be put on academic probation.