Running Start

Start Strong with Running Start @ SFCC

Welcome to SFCC! We are thrilled to have you and your family join our vibrant community. This page is your essential resource for completing the necessary steps before you can register. A crucial piece of advice: don't delay! Completing your requirements early ensures you can register for your preferred classes when new student registration begins. Whether you're a new student eager to begin this exciting chapter or a parent ready to support your teen, we've got you covered with all the essential information and guidance you need. Let's embark on this exciting adventure together!

Important Dates

Steps to Registration

Before you can register for your first quarter, there are a few important steps you need to complete as a new Running Start student. Make sure to get these done ASAP so you’ll be all set to dive into your classes!

Once we receive your application, we'll will email your student identification number to the account you used on your college application. Use your student ID it to immediately activate your ctcLink student account—it's a simple process. Just click on the button below and follow the prompts.

As a Washington state community college student, using ctcLink is crucial for your success. Without activation, you won’t be able to register for courses. ctcLink provides access to essential services like enrollment, registration, financial aid management, and academic records.

When you activate your account, check and update your profile information. Make sure your email address and mobile phone number are current, as this is how we will communicate with you. Always keep your profile information up to date to stay informed about your class schedules, grades, and important college updates.

Activate your ctcLink Account Now

To prepare for Running Start Orientation at SFCC, meet with your high school counselor and complete these steps:
  1. Complete Enrollment Verification Form [Download Form]
    • Complete every quarter for tuition coverage by Running Start.
    • Requires signatures from you, your counselor, and your parent/guardian.
  2. Complete Graduation Plan Form [Download Form]
    • Completed by your high school counselor before your first quarter registration.
  3. Unofficial High School Transcript
    • Obtain from your high school for college-level English and Math placement.
Submit these forms during online orientation. Start this process ASAP to ensure a smooth start. If you have any questions, contact us.

To finalize your enrollment in Running Start at SFCC, you'll need to complete the Online Orientation Course. This essential step ensures you're ready for registration day and have all the information needed for a smooth start to your college experience.
  1. Log In:
    • Access the orientation course through our Canvas learning management system.[Access Canvas]
    • Use your ctcLink Student ID and password to log in.
  2. Submit Required Forms and Information:
    • All necessary forms and instructions are in the orientation course. You must submit all required documents and completeorentation before you can register for classes.
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Need Help

SFCC.RunningStart@sfcc.spokane.edu Phone: 509-533-3435
Office Hours: M-F AM to 4PM

Pre-Quarter Essentials

Make a smooth transition and complete all these tasks before the first day of the quarter. Check out these four steps to kickstart your community college journey:

Pay Your Student Fees

Don't forget to handle your student fees! Fees are not covered by Running Start, so make sure to pay them to the Cashier's Office(Building 17) or through the ctcLink Student Self-Service Portal. Be sure to pay by the Tuition Payment Deadline or within 48 hours of registering if it's after the deadline.

Student Fees Explained
Activate Your Bigfoot Email

Your college email is your key to campus life! It grants you access to campus Wi-Fi, library equipment, and online services. You’ll need it before your first day of class, so get it set up now.

Email Activation Instructions
Get Your Student ID

Your student ID card is essential! It’s not just for campus access—it’s also your bus pass for Spokane Transit. It also gets you cool discounts! Head to the Print Shop in the lower level of the SFCC Library(Building 2) to get yours. Phone: 509-533-3744

Student Id Facts
Buy Your Parking Permit

If you’re driving to campus, you’ll need a virtual parking permit starting on the first day of classes. You can purchase a permit by the quarter or for the entire academic year. You'll need your Bigfoot email to create your parking account. Click here to learn all about parking.

Buy Now

Parents and Student Privacy

Parents of Running Start students should know their teen is treated as a regular college students under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). This federal law protects student privacy by giving students control over their academic records, regardless of age. College staff cannot discuss or release information such as grades or class schedules without a completed FERPA waiver form from the student. Follow this link to the FERPA Release form.



Most Asked Questions

All welcome letters are sent by email to the address you used on your community college application. If you haven't received yours yet, don’t worry! Here’s what to do:
  1. Check the Right Email: Make sure you're looking in the email account you used to apply.
  2. Look in Your Spam Folder: Sometimes emails can end up in the spam folder, so double-check there.
  3. Contact Us: If you still can’t find it, reach out to us at SFCC.RunningStart@SFCC.spokane.edu. We’re here to help and will make sure you get all the information you need.

Great question! Here’s what to expect after you’ve submitted your application:
  • Application Processing Time: It usually takes about 3-5 business days for us to process your application.
  • Enrollment Verification Forms: These take about 48 hours to process.

We know waiting can be tough, but hang in there! If you have any concerns, feel free to reach out to us.

Before registering, it's essential to complete orientation and submit your Enrollment Verification and Graduation Forms. Once these requirements are fulfilled, follow these steps:

  1. Check the SFCC Academic Calendar: Look for the start date of New Student Registration.
  2. Log into ctcLink: Access your ctcLink student account.
  3. Select Your Classes: Choose the classes you want to register for.
  4. Complete Registration: Follow the prompts to complete the registration process.

If you haven't completed your requirements yet, you can still add the classes you choose to your shopping cart. This way, you'll be ready for when your account is opened for registration.

We will notify you of your placements in an email to the address listed in your ctcLink student account. Placement for college-level English and Math is crucial for the Running Start program.

  • Criteria: Your placements will be based on your high school transcript, with English placement determined by your overall high school GPA and math placement based on your grade in Algebra II or higher.
  • Additional Information: If additional information is required, we'll contact you directly.

Running Start is a tuition-free program designed to support your educational journey. Full-time students are covered for up to a maximum of 21 college credits each quarter at the 100 level or above. This means Running Start pays for:

  • Courses at the 100 level or above

However, there are some expenses that students are responsible for:

  • College and Course Fees
  • Books
  • Transportation
  • Courses numbered below 100

Yes! Spokane Falls Community College provides assistance through a fee waiver and book scholarship for eligible students. Here's what you need to know:

  • Eligibility Criteria: Students are considered low income if they meet the federal income guidelines for free or reduced-price meals through the National School Lunch Program (or have been eligible within the last five years) or are currently in a Foster Youth Program.
  • Submission Process: Eligible students should submit their waiver documentation during the Running Start Online Orientation. This ensures that you can access the support you need to cover fees and books for your education.