We get a lot of questions about preparing for admission to Thomas Jefferson High School of Science and Technology. Here are some of the most popular.
Who is eligible to apply to TJ?
The eligibility rules changed in 2020. In short, now any 8th grader residing in Arlington, Fairfax, Falls Church City, Loudoun, Prince William Counties is eligible to apply that:
has a minimum 3.5 GPA
is enrolled in both math and science honors courses (math course must be Honors Algebra I or higher)
is enrolled in one additional honors course or is identified as an FCPS Young Scholar (more details here)
For more specifics, check out TJ’s eligibility requirements.
How do we apply to TJ?
The first step is to apply online to show your interest and to have your school confirm the eligibility requirements. All eligible applicants then take the writing administration for the Student Portrait Sheet and Problem-Solving Essay (SPS/PSE).
Is the writing administered on paper or on the computer?
It is typed on the computer. Due to the coronavirus, they held their first virtual administration in March 2021, but plan to resume in-person in the future.
Is there still a test?
The old standardized test featuring math, reading, and science was eliminated in fall 2020. They do not call the writing administration of the Student Portrait Sheet and the Problem-Solving Essay a test; however, it is written under timed conditions.
When should we start preparing?
It all depends on the student — some begin in elementary school and others at the start of 8th grade. Our TJ-specific classes begin in 7th grade with the option to continue classes until the administration. Before 7th grade, we do private tutoring to focus on your student’s areas for improvement and to encourage the exploration and pursuit of their passions.
When should we sign up for one of your classes?
Our classes are first come, first served, so the earlier, the better.
What’s the difference between a summer course and a school-year course?
The curriculum is designed very similarly — the summer course is a more intensive version as it’s all covered within five weeks, while our school-year courses are traditionally once a week for a longer period of time.
If our student misses one of your classes, can they make it up?
While we don't offer makeups for our group classes, if a student has to miss class, we recommend that they upload homework before class in the event of any peer review so they can still receive feedback. In addition, after class they should review the Bitpaper board notes and any relevant handouts before completing the next week's homework so they don't miss a beat.
If my student doesn’t want to continue the class, can we get a refund?
We do not offer refunds on courses. Please discuss with your student before registering and make sure this is something they want to do. The most fun classes are full of motivated students who want to go to TJ, but we do give a lot of homework and our classes are a commitment.
Can you guarantee our student will gain admission?
While our goal is for students to walk out of the administration saying I nailed it!, there is a lot of competition, and there are no guarantees. Our classes will help students succeed in school, learn important skills in each subject, and help prepare them for writing they will do in the future.
What will help increase our student’s chances?
Beyond the minimum eligibility requirements, for math in the past, the majority of students offered admission are in Geometry Honors or higher in 8th grade if they’re in the public school system. In addition, it’s crucial that students have explored and pursued their interests and passions in STEM both inside and outside of school so that they can show these experiences on their Student Portrait Sheet (SPS).
