Running Start is a program that provides academically motivated students with an opportunity to take college courses at Rock Valley College (RVC), full-time, during their junior and/or senior year of high school as part of their high school education. The courses taken will be for Dual Credit, simultaneously meeting the requirements for both a high school diploma and an Associate’s degree.

(Check with your high school for programs offered at your school)

• 1-year program: Offers seniors the opportunity to earn 1 year of college credit (1-year program is non-degree completion)
• 2-year program: Offers juniors degree completion of an Associate of Arts or Associate in Science.

• Strong academic standing in high school to guarantee high school graduation completion of Running Start Program
• A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 in high school at the time of application
• Must be in at least sophomore year of high school to apply for the Running Start Program
• By the end of sophomore year, students must complete one year of Algebra, one year of Geometry (or Integrated Math 1 and Integrated Math 2), two years of English, and one year of Chemistry with a grade of “B” or higher.
• School districts may elect to add additional qualifications. Please check with your high school to see if you qualify.

Students and their families should determine if Running Start is a good fit based on the student’s maturity and ability.

Things to Consider:

• College tuition is paid in part or in whole depending on the local school district.
• Students are responsible for books, supplies and transportation.
• Running Start students are NOT eligible for financial aid.
• Students in the 2-year programs complete an Associate’s Degree at the same time as graduating high school.
• Students in the 1-year program earn college credits, building towards a degree.
• Transferability of credits is determined by the transfer/4-year institution.
• Grades become part of an official college transcript.
• Running Start extends the variety of classes available to high school students.
• Students may miss the social aspect of high school; however, there are many opportunities to participate in extra-curricular activities at RVC, including Running Start Club.
• No parent/guardian/teacher conferences, progress reports or mid-term grades sent home.
• The RVC Academic Calendar is different from the high school calendar and must be followed.

• Speak with your high school counselor about eligibility and determine which program is right for you.
• Complete and submit Rock Valley College Enrollment Form at least one week prior to testing.
• Take the ACCUPLACER Placement Test through your high school for college-level reading, sentence skills and math. You may submit ACT/SAT scores for a possible waiver of the ACCUPLACER.