Running Start

Why Running Start?

Participating in the Running Start program allows Running Start students the opportunity to take a wide range of courses from CWU faculty and gain the experience of a traditional college student while also enjoying the support of their family, high school, and local community.

Students may enroll simultaneously in high school and college courses, or exclusively in college courses. Running Start is available to local high school students at the main campus in Ellensburg and online. Please explore our website to see if Running Start at Central Washington University is right for you.

If you have questions, please feel free to reach out to us at RunningStart3@cwu.edu or call us at 509-963-1351 (Ellensburg campus). You are also welcome to stop by our offices in Ellensburg (Hebeler Hall, Room 101).

• Admissions & Testing Information
• Attend a CWU Running Start Information Session in Ellensburg
• Homeschool Students
• Benefits & Things to Keep in Mind
• Running Start Advising

Upcoming Important Application Dates

Fall 2025 applications are closed

Winter

• Winter 2026 applications are open from September 24^th until December 14^th 
• Registration for Winter 2026 will begin November 10^th 

Spring

• Spring 2026 applications will be open December 15^th until March 13^th 

Summer 2026 and Fall 2026 applications will open on February 2nd, 2026

• Summer applications will close on June 12th, 2026
• Fall applications will close on September 4th, 2026

Students should submit an application for the quarter they want to start participating in Running Start. Please do not submit applications for multiple quarters.

We encourage all students to apply and complete any required testing early.