Running Start Frequently Asked Questions

Running Start is a program that enables eligible high school students to take college classes. The student enrolls in college classes for the purpose of earning both college and high school credit, or just college credit. All courses remain on the student’s permanent college transcript.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. What's it like to take a course at McHenry County College?
  2. What is MCC’s Academic Calendar?
  3. Is attendance in class required?
  4. How different is the college classroom from the high school classroom?
  5. Is there a lot of homework to do?
  6. Are there any scholarships available?
  7. Is there transportation available for me to get to classes?

1. What's it like to take a course at McHenry County College?

Once students enroll under this program and begin attending MCC, they will be considered college students. The faculty will expect the same level of performance as expected of other college students.

2. What is MCC's Academic Calendar?

MCC operates on a semester system, which may be different from the high school academic calendar. Holidays the college celebrates and its vacation periods may be different from high school schedules and students may be expected to attend classes at the college even though their high school in not in session.

3. Is attendance in class required?

Though faculty may or may not take attendance, it is the student’s responsibility to be prepared each day and meet all deadlines.

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4. How different is the college classroom from the high school classroom?

Class participation is an integral part of college and most faculty will require students to participate in classroom discussions which are taught at a much faster pace than classes in high school.

5. Is there a lot of homework to do?

College classes demand approximately two hours of homework for each hour of class. Generally, there will be no classroom time for homework.

6. Are there any scholarships available?

Students must receive a “C” or higher in the registered course to be eligible for ICCB, P-16 Grant Tuition reimbursement opportunities, and the student must apply specifically for the grant on the Running Start Registration form.

7. Is there transportation available for me to get to classes?

Students are responsible for their own transportation to and from classes.

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1/23/08