Take College Classes During High School

Give your child a new academic challenge, more independence, and tuition-free college credits at SPSCC.

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1,000+ local teens have already enrolled for fall. Don't miss out!

Through Running Start, high school juniors and seniors can attend SPSCC tuition-free and earn college credits—or even an Associate Degree—at the same time as their high school diploma.

Each year, hundreds of Running Start students graduate from SPSCC and transfer to a 4-year university in Washington.

Why consider Running Start?

  • Your family can save $10,000+ toward your child's bachelor's degree when they do Running Start during for their junior and senior years.

  • Your child can build independence and university readiness, take classes not offered at the high school, and make a diverse group of friends.

  • Running Start students can join clubs, study abroad, serve on student leadership, or get a job on-campus to make extra money.

Learn more at the online orientation 8/19 at 5 p.m.

Sign Up Now!

Learn at the #2 College in the U.S.

Trust us: SPSCC is a great choice for your student! SPSCC is the #2 community college in the U.S. and voted Best of South Sound! We're also the largest higher ed institution in Thurston County.

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  • In addition to tuition-free courses, Fee Waivers and Book Loans are available to students who qualify for Free/Reduced Price Lunch (FRPL) at the high school.

  • Nearly 1,400 students from local high schools enroll for Running Start at SPSCC each year. Will your child join us?

  • If your child is ready to grow socially and academically, Running Start may be a great fit for your family!

Ready to help your student apply?

Apply Now

Meet some of our students

  • Student smiles looking at the camera

    Seher

    Grad Year: 2027 Capital HS & SPSCC
    Earning: Associate in Arts & High School Diploma
    Next: Transfer to a 4-year University to Study Law

  • Student smiles and points at camera in front of modern building

    William

    Grad Year: 2026 Yelm HS & SPSCC
    Earning: High School Diploma & Associate in Arts
    Next: Transfer to a University to Study Psychology

  • Student in glasses smiles at camera in front of maple leaves

    Lucy

    Grad Year: 2027 Capital HS & SPSCC
    Earning: Associate in Science - Engineering & Physics
    Next: Transfer to a 4-year University to Study Mechanical Engineering

Explore Admissions & What You Pay

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