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Running Start Student Costs

What Running Start covers

In the Running Start Program, your tuition is paid for by your public school district.  There are limitations though: your high school will only cover your tuition up to the point where you are just above full time enrollment. You can find this information on your Enrollment Verification form or by talking with your high school counselor for how many Running Start credits your school will cover given the amount high school classes you are taking.

What Running Start does not cover

Running Start does not cover student fees. Student fees cover services provided on campus such as labs, technology, and the recreation center. Private music lessons will result in additional fees. For more information, visit Tuition & Fees.

We also do not cover course required textbooks. Students are not required to purchase textbooks through the WVC bookstore. If you find a cheaper option on another website you can purchase it there. 

If you go above the limit on credits your high school will cover for you,  you will have to pay for them. Summer quarter may be covered, depending on eligibility. Running Start only covers college-level courses (numbered 100 or above). 

Transportation is not covered/provided by Running Start. However, students do have access to the Link Transit Bus for free by using their WVC student ID card.

ASSIST Program

If you qualify for free or reduced lunch at your high school, you can receive a credit towards purchasing textbooks (provided that you maintain at least a 2.0 GPA and funds are available). To receive the voucher, please read and fill out a Voucher Contract form and turn in to your adviser.

Assist students may also see a reduction in their student fees and a waiver in 3 additional credits if they choose to go over the amount listed on their EV form. 

To take advantage of this opportunity, please make sure that 'Yes' is checked on the Free and Reduced Lunch Section of your Enrollment Verification form.

Additional Resources

Depending on a students situation, there may be additional resources available to them such as accomodations, counseling, etc. Students should reach out to their adviser for more information.