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 Deadlines for 2026-2027

• Fall Quarter: Closes September 4, 2026
• Winter Quarter: Opens September 5, 2026 – Closes December 14, 2026
• Spring Quarter: Opens December 15, 2026 – Closes March 16, 2027
• Summer Quarter: Opens March 17, 2027 – Closes June 7, 2027

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.