Running Start Admission Process
Running Start Admissions Steps
Admission to the Running Start program is a multi-step process and must be started at least one week before the Running Start Application deadline. Please be sure to complete each step before continuing to the next one.
We encourage students to meet with their high school counselor to determine Junior or Senior level standing. It is important that students take the time to discuss their college readiness, future goals, financial obligations, and transportation requirements when meeting with their high school counselor.
1. Apply to Tacoma Community College
All prospective students must apply to the college before they can apply to the Running Start program. Watch the following video to see step-by-step how to complete the application to TCC.
To begin your Admissions Application, click the yellow Apply Now button below.
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In the application, you must select Running Start in the “I will be enrolling as a…” section, or you will not receive the appropriate next step. |
Within 3 business days of submitting your Admissions Application, you will receive an official TCC Welcome Email from with your ctcLink ID and next steps.
| If you do not receive your TCC Welcome Email after 3 business days, please email our Admissions department at admissions@tacomacc.edu. |
Winter 2024 deadline to submit your TCC Admissions Application: December 9, 2024
2. Submit Proof of English Qualification
The Welcome email will include a link to upload your English qualifying measures (i.e. high school transcript) through OnBase. See Eligibility for English qualifying measures.
We will verify your qualification once your submission is received. Review of the Qualifying Measures can take up to 3 business days.
Fall 2024 deadline to submit your English Qualifying Measures: December 13, 2024
3. Complete Running Start Application
Once your qualification is verified, you will receive an email from runstart@tacomacc.edu with a link to the digital Running Start Application and an Enrollment Verification Form (EVF). If you do not see an email in your inbox, please check your spam/junk folder.
Connect with your high school counselor to get the EVF filled out; the form must be signed by your counselor, parent/guardian, and you. Once completed, upload the EVF to the Running Start Application and fill out the remaining sections of the application with your parent/guardian, then Submit.
The application is ready for submission when the following sections are completed:
- Student information + upload EVF
- Student Financial Responsibility
- Class and Campus Fees
- Financial Aid Assistance Program
- Policy Agreement
- Release of Information
You will receive an auto-generated email to confirm your application has been successfully submitted. Review and processing of the Running Start Application can take up to 3 business days.
Fall 2024 deadline to submit your Running Start Application: December 18, 2024
4. New Student Orientation
Once your application is processed, we will email you a Running Start New Student Orientation date. *Do not sign up for the orientation hosted by the college.
In orientation, students will:
- Learn important program information
- Learn about resources available at TCC
- Learn how to register for classes
- Meet their assigned Running Start advisor
An orientation packet will be emailed to you a day prior to your scheduled orientation date.
5. Register for Classes
After completing the Running Start New Student Orientation, you will be able to register for classes.
6. Pay Class and Campus Fees
Tuition is covered by the Running Start program, but students are still responsible for quarterly fees. Financial assistance is available for eligible students. See FAQs for information about our Fee Waiver program.