At Edmonds College, the Summer Running Start program offers a unique opportunity to start your college journey early—without the heavy price tag.

If you’re looking to save money, earn dual credit, and ease into the college experience, here is why you should consider jumping in this summer.

Why the summer session?

Director of the Running Start Program, Nell Colyn, advises students trying out Running Start in the summer is a strategic move. She says, “The pace on campus is a bit more relaxed; you can use the summer as a preview of the program to see if you enjoy the flexibility, independence, and variety that the Running Start program can offer before committing to a full year.”

There are many classes available, including popular courses such as English Composition and US History. Adding a summer quarter relieves the pressure of a full degree plan, creating "wiggle room" for electives later on.

The best part? We turn no one away; we don’t require placement tests. You can use your high school transcript to receive your English and math class placement.

Who Can Join This Summer?

The summer program is open to a wide range of students, with a 10-credit limit for summer quarter:

• Rising Juniors: You can register for summer classes, and get ahead on credits before the school year starts. New students receive 10 credits of funding.
• Current Juniors: If you've already hit your credit limit for the school year, you can still join through self-funded participation.
• Seniors Returning for a 5th Year: You can take up to 10 credits of the specific classes you need to graduate.
• Graduating Seniors: You can actually keep taking classes through the summer after your senior year. Just keep in mind this shifts your official graduation date to August, so double-check how that might affect your fall university plans.
  

The Big Win: College Credit for $0 Tuition

Running Start is tuition-free for all juniors and seniors in Washington state. While students are typically responsible for books and fees, the savings are significant. A student who completes two years of Running Start can save roughly $8,000 in tuition costs.

Financial Support: Students with financial needs can receive fee waivers and textbook vouchers to ensure the program remains accessible to everyone.

Dates You Need to Know

The window for summer registration moves fast! Funding depends on your previous enrollment in the fall, winter, and spring quarters, and you’ll need signatures from your high school counselor before they head out for summer break.

• May 21: Recommended paperwork deadline for returning students
• May 28: Recommended paperwork deadline for new students
• June 18: Final deadline to submit summer paperwork
• July 6: First day of classes

Note: You must submit a separate Enrollment Verification Form for each quarter. If you miss the paperwork deadline, you may be responsible for tuition.

How to Make it Happen

Ready to save up to $8,000 dollars? Follow these steps:

1. Check Eligibility: Explore the Edmonds Running Start website for details on the summer quarter.
2. Meet Your Counselor: Connect with your high school counselor to fill out the required paperwork.
3. Visit Us: We recommend meeting with the Running Start team at Edmonds! We are available for drop-ins or by appointment to help you map out your two-year plan.

Don't spend your whole summer just waiting for fall. Spread the word—summer is still on! Start now, earn the credit, and keep that tuition money in your pocket.