Running Start is a program that allows eligible students to complete their 11th and 12th-grade coursework at Rock Valley College as full-time students during both the fall and spring semesters, earning both their high school diploma and an Associate degree simultaneously.  Additionally, there is a one-year option where students can complete only their 12th-grade year at Rock Valley College and get a head start on earning college credits. 

Eligibility for Running Start

To be eligible to apply, students must be enrolled in a District 100 school, be on track for graduation, have a cumulative 3.0 GPA, and have received grades of a B or higher in English 9 and English 10, Geometry, Chemistry, and high school Algebra coursework.  Additionally, students must take consumer ed during their sophomore year if they are interested in the two-year Running Start program. 

Sophomore and junior students who meet the required cumulative GPA and have received A’s or B’s or who are currently enrolled in the required courses will receive a letter home and an email to their District 100 account outlining the deadlines to turn in required forms in October each fall semester. 

Students who complete the initial deadline to turn in required forms will then be invited to take the Accuplacer placement test through a partnership with Rock Valley College. If students meet or surpass the required placement scores in Math, English, and Reading, they will be mailed a Running Start acceptance packet in late January/early February.

Tuition Responsibilities:

The Belvidere School District covers the cost of tuition and fees for students who choose to participate in the program. Students are responsible for covering the cost of required textbooks, course materials, and transportation to and from Rock Valley College’s campus. Additionally, students are responsible for the tuition and fees for any classes that a student withdraws from, fails, or retakes.

General Timeline for Running Start Participation:

September

• Transcripts are reviewed to determine initial student eligibility. Students must be enrolled in District 100 at this time to be eligible to participate in Running Start the following academic year.

October

• Letters are mailed home and emails are sent to eligible students with forms to complete and return by a specific date in October.

• Students who complete the forms will be invited to take the Accuplacer placement exam.

January

• Students are sent a Running Start Acceptance Packet.

February

• Students choose whether or not to accept placement in the program and return the required forms to Rock Valley College’s Early College department.

March

• Students are given a class schedule for the fall semester at Rock Valley College.