Get Started

Ready to enroll as a Running Start student at South Seattle College? Check to make sure you meet the eligibility requirements and follow the instructions below.

We're excited you are joining our Otter family.

Eligibility

  • Must be a WA public high school student
  • Able to demonstrate eligibility for college-level English and/or Math (see “determine your placement for classes” below for details)
  • Junior or senior standing

To learn more and explore the process of applying to the Running Start program, expand the sections below.

Become a South Seattle Otter!

Once you have applied - you will receive a ctcLink ID number via email, which serves as your student ID number. Please be sure to record your ctcLink ID number and keep it someplace safe! You will reference this ID# often as a student at South.

Please note that applications to the college are processed by our Registration office. If you are inquiring about the status of your application and/or ctcLink ID#, please email the Registration office at ssccregistration@seattlecolleges.edu and include the following information:

  • First and last name
  • Date of birth
  • ctcLink ID (if you have it)
  • Date of application (if you have it)
  • Request (ex: inquiring about the status of your application)
  • Quarter you'd like to start at South

Before registering for certain classes, students will need to demonstrate college-level English and/or Math eligibility. This can be demonstrated through several methods, such as high school transcripts, SAT or ACT test scores, or by utilizing our free directed self-placement tool. Check for a full list of placement options here.

At South Seattle College, students may take our free online English and Math Directed Self Placement (DSP) – these are self-reflective tools that help the student assess which English and/or Math class(es) would be the best fit for their academic ability. To take the DSP, you must have a ctcLink ID number (provided via email from admissions after you applied to South Seattle College). Each placement tool should take about 20-30 minutes to complete. Upon completion, your placement scores will be automatically sent to our Student Placement office to be recorded within 24-48 hours.
•    Math: Direct Self Placement (DSP) – Instructions Here     
•    English: Direct Self Placement (DSP) – Instructions Here

  • After placement tests, consult with your high school counselor and fill out the Enrollment Packet. This form must also be signed by a parent or guardian.
  • Your enrollment packet can be completed and submitted online. You will have the option to upload documents including placement/test results, your high school transcript, the fee waiver form, and the required Enrollment Verification Form (EVF).
  • If you are unable to attach documents, you may email them directly to RunningStart.South@seattlecolleges.edu. 
  • Fall/Winter/Spring: Running Start students must complete a Running Start Enrollment Verification form each quarter.
  • Summer: Summer Verification Form
  • Your application will be reviewed and you will receive an email response from our office within 2 business days.
  • If your application is incomplete, a staff member will request additional information from you.
  • If your application is complete, you will be contacted to schedule an appointment with an advisor who will help you register for classes.
  • Finally, you will meet with an advisor at South to select courses you wish to register for and discuss new student resources. 
  • We encourage you to schedule this meeting as early as possible in the registration process to successfully register for your desired classes before they are full.
  • It’s a good idea to bring your parent/guardian with you when you meet with your advisor. Allow them to help you get started and cheer you on. Having a strong support network with help you be successful in college.

Please review our New Running Start Appointment Guide to get an overview of what will be discussed in your first advising appointment.

Complete the mandatory Running Start New Student Orientation prior the first day of the quarter on our Learning Management System, Canvas. This Orientation will help you prepare for the college environment and better understand academic expectations.

Topics covered may include (and are not limited to):

  • When to start planning for registration for the next quarter
  • Time management skills and strategies of successful college students
  • Study skills & tutoring help
  • Services available to all enrolled students

There is no tuition cost for Running Start students, but there may be other fees associated with the classes you choose. Be sure to pay these fees at the cashier's office after you have registered.

Your enrollment is not complete until these fees are paid. You will be dropped from classes for failure to pay fees.