Running Start Program
Washington State University Global Campus is pleased to offer an online Running Start program for qualifying high school juniors and seniors attending a high school within Washington state– tuition free! Designed for academically prepared students seeking flexibility, independence, and academic challenge, Running Start allows them to begin taking college courses early while remaining engaged in high school academics, athletics, clubs, work, and family responsibilities.
Eligibility Requirements
To participate in Running Start through WSU Global Campus, students must:
- be a high school junior or senior
- meet the minimum GPA requirement (3.30 or higher)
- be eligible for Running Start participation through their high school
- attend a high school that has an agreement in place with WSU Global Campus for Running Start (Please check with your HS Counselor)
- demonstrate readiness for college-level coursework
- have access to appropriate computer equipment and a dependable internet connection
Visit our TechReady website for more information and resources.
Homeschooled students can apply through their local public high school, consistent with state guidelines.
Why Global Campus?
WSU Global Campus Running Start is 100% online, ideal for students who need flexibility, live far from a campus, or prefer online learning. With a long-standing reputation for academic quality and student support, WSU Global Campus is nationally recognized for online education—ranked No. 11 in the nation for Best Online Bachelor’s Programs by U.S. News & World Report in 2026. Students can enroll in one course or take up to 21 tuition-free college credits, which are backed by the accreditation of WSU and taught by faculty from a leading research university.
Is Running Start a Good Fit for You?
Running Start, online through WSU Global Campus, is a great opportunity, but it comes with real college-level responsibility.
Before applying, students should consult with their support systems and consider whether our program aligns with their learning style, goals, and readiness.
Students must be prepared to exercise independence, communicate proactively, and stay organized in an online college environment.
You may be a good fit for WSU Global Campus Running Start if you can answer “yes” to most of these questions:
- Can I manage my schedule, deadlines, and workload without constant reminders?
- Am I comfortable communicating directly with instructors when I have questions or challenges?
- Can I balance my current responsibilities alongside college coursework?
- Do I regularly check email, follow instructions carefully, and meet deadlines?
- Do I understand that college grades stay on my transcript and can impact future college admissions and financial aid?
If you are unsure, talk with your high school counselor about your options.
Running Start through WSU Global Campus offers students the opportunity to begin college coursework early, but it comes with real academic responsibility.
Important things to know:
- Courses are taught by WSU faculty and follow college expectations.
- Students—not parents—are expected to communicate directly with instructors and advisors.
- While tuition is covered for up to 21 credits per semester, students are responsible for additional costs such as books, lab fees, or course materials.
- Grades earned become part of a permanent WSU college transcript.
- Success depends on student independence and initiative.
Parents and guardians play an important support role by:
- encouraging strong time-management habits
- helping students plan realistic course loads
- talking through goals, stress levels, and balance
This program works best when students are ready to take ownership of their college experience, with families providing encouragement and support at home.
WSU Global Campus works closely with counselors to support informed participation and positive outcomes.
Counselors play a critical role by:
- assessing student readiness—not just eligibility—for college
- helping students choose appropriate course loads that are aligned with high school graduation requirements
- serving as a local point of contact for student questions and needs
- working with academic advising at WSU to provide effective support to Running Start students
Important context to emphasize with students:
- This program focuses on real college coursework and transferable credit.
- Students must navigate college systems independently, with guidance as needed from high school counselors and WSU academic advising.
- Starting with one course can be a successful strategy for entering university for the first time.
Apply Now
If Running Start at WSU Global Campus feels like the right fit, then you’re ready to take the next step.
Before you submit your free application, make sure that you speak to your high school counselors about your readiness and any concerns about taking university courses.
Starting the application early gives you time to plan your courses and start strong.
Contact Information
For more information about the Running Start program or to speak with our admissions team, please email wsuglobal.runningstart@wsu.edu.