Summer Running Start is open and tuition-free at Edmonds College, giving high school students the opportunity to earn up to 10 college credits before the fall quarter even begins. Despite recent confusion surrounding state legislative debates and proposed budget cuts, which led many to believe the program was being canceled, this vital opportunity remains fully in effect for our community and remains one of the most powerful tools available to help students jump-start their futures, save on tuition and build the academic momentum they need to succeed.
Current sophomores, juniors, and seniors are eligible for summer Running Start. While other students are taking a break, participants can complete two full college courses — at no tuition cost — putting them significantly closer to their degrees before the fall quarter even begins.
It is true that during the 2026 legislative session, proposals such as Senate Bill 6260 and House Bill 2676 sought to reduce or eliminate funding for these additional summer credits. These discussions led to widespread concern that the program might be scaled back to pre-2023 levels. However, Edmonds is here to assure local students that the promise of summer access remains in effect.
“We’ve seen firsthand how Running Start changes lives,” said Edmonds College President Dr. Amit B. Singh. “The program allows high school students to get ahead in their higher education aspirations, while saving money, and for many students, summer isn’t just a break; it’s an opportunity to sustain their momentum.”
When students participate in summer Running Start, they don’t just earn credits; they build confidence. For a high school student, stepping onto a college campus or logging into a college-level online course for the first time can be intimidating. Starting in the summer allows students to navigate college systems and find their footing in a slightly more relaxed environment before the fall rush.
According to an op-ed article in The Seattle Times by executive director of the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges, Nate Humphrey, and Washington’s State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Chris Reykdal, the data highlights the “power of summer” quite clearly:
- Higher Completion Rates: Students who enroll in summer Running Start complete their associate degrees at rates 20 to 30 percentage points higher than those who do not enroll in summer Running Start.
- Academic Success: These students pass more than 89% of their classes.
- Continued Growth: Over 80% of summer students continue their enrollment into the fall, maintaining their academic flow without the “summer melt” that often affects learning.
A Program for Everyone
At Edmonds College, Running Start is for every student. One of the biggest myths is that students need a high GPA or test scores to qualify. That is not the case. No one is turned away. Regardless of English placement scores or current high school GPA, any student can participate.
The program is designed to meet students where they are. If a student is unsure which classes to take, the dedicated Running Start team and advisors can help them find a pathway that matches their goals. Whether they want to explore a new interest or follow a specific career track, Edmonds offers over 100 degrees and certificates in a variety of fields.
Furthermore, Running Start offers a level of flexibility that traditional high school schedules often cannot. This summer, students can choose to attend classes in person on Edmonds’ beautiful campus or study from anywhere in the world through the online course options. They can earn credits while still enjoying their summer travels or working a part-time job.
The financial benefits of Running Start cannot be overstated. By taking advantage of the 10 tuition-free credits this summer, families can save thousands of dollars in future tuition costs. For many low-income and first-generation students, these summer credits are the only way to stay on track for a degree without taking on the burden of student debt. When the state funds these credits, it removes a massive barrier to higher education. Edmonds College also provides fee waivers for eligible students to ensure that books and other required costs don’t stand in the way of their success.
By starting now, students could potentially finish an associate degree at the same time they graduate from high school. From there, they could transfer to a four-year university as a junior, essentially finishing a bachelor’s degree two years early. Edmonds even offers bachelor’s degrees in high-growth fields such as IT, robotics and AI, computer science, manufacturing and healthcare, allowing students to continue their journey right here in their home community.
How to Get Started
The window to take advantage of this summer’s tuition-free credits is open now. Open enrollment for summer and fall quarters started on May 29.
For a current high school sophomore, junior, or senior, their first step is to check their eligibility with their high school counselor or reach out directly to the Edmonds College Running Start team. Applications are accepted year-round, so it is never too late to start the process.
Don’t let the confusion cost you a summer of progress. The 10 credits are available, the doors are open, and the benefits — from saving money to building academic momentum—are waiting for many high school students.
For more information and to start your application, visit edmonds.edu/running-start today.
Edmonds College | edmonds.edu
The college serves approximately 18,000 students annually, including approximately 800 international students from about 55 countries. The college currently offers six Bachelor of Applied Science degrees, one Bachelor of Science degree, 66 associate degrees, and 111 professional certificates in 30 programs of study. The college operates two on-campus residence halls housing approximately 400 students. The college offers a wide range of comprehensive offerings: College credit in high school, basic education skills to earn a high school diploma/GED or to prepare for college, short-term non-credit training, continuing education, online degrees and certificates, and courses offered day, night, and weekend. Support services include childcare, a campus food pantry, 211 navigator, and mental health resources.
Edmonds College does not discriminate on the basis of race; color; national origin; sex; disability; age; religion; sexual orientation; citizenship, marital, or veteran status; or genetic information in its programs and activities. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies: Kathy Smith (Title IX and Section 504 Coordinator/Investigator); Clearview Building, Room 122B; [email protected], 425-640-1814.
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