In 1999, the Community College System introduced Project Running Start, a partnership enabling high school students to enroll in college courses at a significant reduction in tuition. The courses are offered during the school day at high schools across the state, and in some high schools in Maine and Vermont. College courses range from general studies to career-specific courses.

Each high school faculty member who teaches a college course through Running Start is partnered with a community college faculty member, and meets or exceeds CCSNH faculty qualifications.  Many are also adjunct faculty at one of the colleges.

Students who successfully complete CCSNH courses through Project Running Start can request an official transcript from the college. CCSNH courses taken through  Running Start are accepted at NH's community colleges, and at many other colleges and universities.