2026-2027 TJ Admission Prep Group (Fall Course)
Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) has implemented updated admissions requirements beginning with the Class of 2027. Two key components of the application are the Student Portrait Sheet and the Problem-Solving Essay, both of which require thoughtful preparation and strong critical thinking skills.
Our TJ Admission Prep Group Fall Course is designed to help students develop the skills and strategies needed to successfully navigate these components and present a compelling application.
TJHSST Admission Eligibility Requirements:
Applicants to Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) must meet the following criteria.-
Course Requirements:
- Enrolled in both honors-level math and science courses
- Enrolled in one additional honors course or identified as a Young Scholar*
(*Information regarding potential waivers will be provided by the school.)
Math Requirement:
- Students must be enrolled in a full-year Honors Algebra I (for high school credit) or a higher-level math course in 8th grade
- Algebra I Part A does not satisfy this requirement
- The current math course must be verified by the school on the application Grade Point Average (GPA):
- A minimum GPA of 3.5 at the end of 7th grade is required for eligibility
TJHSST Freshman Application Key Components:
- Grade Point Average (GPA) (minimum 3.5 required)
- Student Portrait Sheet, demonstrating Portrait of a Graduate attributes and 21st-century skills
- Problem-Solving Essay
- Experience Factors
- Student Portrait Sheet: Students are required to demonstrate key competencies such as critical thinking, collaboration, and communication through their responses. This section highlights a student’s experiences, achievements, and personal growth.
- Problem-Solving Essay: This essay may involve math and/or science concepts, but more importantly, it evaluates a student’s ability to analyze complex problems, organize ideas clearly, and communicate logical conclusions effectively.
☞ Our Support
While applicants must complete the Student Portrait Sheet and Problem-Solving Essay independently, we provide structured guidance to help students:
Skill Development Focus
- Understand what TJHSST is looking for
- Develop strong writing and communication skills
- Organize and express ideas effectively
- Manage time throughout the application process
Student Portrait Sheet Preparation
- Brainstorm and articulate meaningful accomplishments
- Identify and present key activities and skills
- Develop clear and compelling personal statements
Problem-Solving Essay Preparation
- Strengthen problem-solving skills and scientific reasoning
- Learn to organize multi-step explanations clearly and effectively
- Practice technical writing to communicate complex ideas
- Master essay planning, structuring, and editing
Top 1% "Experienced and Highly Qualified" TJ Admission Essay Tutor
- Alexandra Nguyen — University of Virginia, National Merit Scholarship Finalist
2026-2027 TJ Admission Prep Group (Fall Course)
Early Bird Tuition: Register by August 5, 2026 for a tuition discount of 10%.
Tuition: $1,350 ⇒ $1,215 
Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) has implemented updated admissions requirements beginning with the Class of 2027. Two key components of the application are the Student Portrait Sheet and the Problem-Solving Essay, both of which require thoughtful preparation and strong critical thinking skills.
Our TJ Admission Prep Group Fall Course is designed to help students develop the skills and strategies needed to successfully navigate these components and present a compelling application.
TJHSST Admission Eligibility Requirements:
Applicants to Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) must meet the following criteria.-
Course Requirements:
- Enrolled in both honors-level math and science courses
- Enrolled in one additional honors course or identified as a Young Scholar*
(*Information regarding potential waivers will be provided by the school.)
Math Requirement:
- Students must be enrolled in a full-year Honors Algebra I (for high school credit) or a higher-level math course in 8th grade
- Algebra I Part A does not satisfy this requirement
- The current math course must be verified by the school on the application Grade Point Average (GPA):
- A minimum GPA of 3.5 at the end of 7th grade is required for eligibility
TJHSST Freshman Application Key Components:
- Grade Point Average (GPA) (minimum 3.5 required)
- Student Portrait Sheet, demonstrating Portrait of a Graduate attributes and 21st-century skills
- Problem-Solving Essay
- Experience Factors
- Student Portrait Sheet: Students are required to demonstrate key competencies such as critical thinking, collaboration, and communication through their responses. This section highlights a student’s experiences, achievements, and personal growth.
- Problem-Solving Essay: This essay may involve math and/or science concepts, but more importantly, it evaluates a student’s ability to analyze complex problems, organize ideas clearly, and communicate logical conclusions effectively.
☞ Our Support
While applicants must complete the Student Portrait Sheet and Problem-Solving Essay independently, we provide structured guidance to help students:
Skill Development Focus
- Understand what TJHSST is looking for
- Develop strong writing and communication skills
- Organize and express ideas effectively
- Manage time throughout the application process
Student Portrait Sheet Preparation
- Brainstorm and articulate meaningful accomplishments
- Identify and present key activities and skills
- Develop clear and compelling personal statements
Problem-Solving Essay Preparation
- Strengthen problem-solving skills and scientific reasoning
- Learn to organize multi-step explanations clearly and effectively
- Practice technical writing to communicate complex ideas
- Master essay planning, structuring, and editing
Program Details:
- Small group instruction (maximum 6 students per class) for individualized attention
- Courses offered at our Fairfax and McLean facilities
"2026-2027 TJ Admission Prep Group Fall Course Schedules"
| Fairfax Branch | Class # | McLean Branch | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Day | Date | Time | Day | Date | Time | |
| Sat | Sept. 5 | 1:00pm - 3:00pm | 1 | Sun | Sept. 6 | 1:00pm - 3:00pm |
| Sat | Sept. 12 | 1:00pm - 3:00pm | 2 | Sun | Sept. 13 | 1:00pm - 3:00pm |
| Sat | Sept. 19 | 1:00pm - 3:00pm | 3 | Sun | Sept. 20 | 1:00pm - 3:00pm |
| Sat | Sept. 26 | 1:00pm - 3:00pm | 4 | Sun | Sept. 27 | 1:00pm - 3:00pm |
| Sat | Oct. 3 | 1:00pm - 3:00pm | 5 | Sun | Oct. 4 | 1:00pm - 3:00pm |
| Sat | Oct. 10 | 1:00pm - 3:00pm | 6 | Sun | Oct. 11 | 1:00pm - 3:00pm |
| Sat | Oct. 17 | 1:00pm - 3:00pm | 7 | Sun | Oct. 18 | 1:00pm - 3:00pm |
| Sat | Oct. 24 | 1:00pm - 3:00pm | 8 | Sun | Oct. 25 | 1:00pm - 3:00pm |
| Sat | Oct. 31 | 1:00pm - 3:00pm | 9 | Sun | Nov. 1 | 1:00pm - 3:00pm |
| Sat | Nov. 7 | 1:00pm - 3:00pm | 10 | Sun | Nov. 8 | 1:00pm - 3:00pm |
Top 1% "Experienced and Highly Qualified" TJ Admission Prep Tutor
- Alexandra Nguyen — University of Virginia, National Merit Scholarship Finalist
Early Bird Tuition: Register by August 5, 2026 for a tuition discount of 10%.
Tuition: $1,350 ⇒ $1,215
Apply to TJHSST and Decision Process
TJ Admission Prep One-on-One Tutoring
Tuition: $2,200 for 20 hours
Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) has implemented updated admissions requirements beginning with the Class of 2027. Two key components of the application are the Student Portrait Sheet and the Problem-Solving Essay, both of which require thoughtful preparation and strong critical thinking skills.
Our TJ Admission Prep Group Fall Course is designed to help students develop the skills and strategies needed to successfully navigate these components and present a compelling application.
TJHSST Admission Eligibility Requirements:
Applicants to Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) must meet the following criteria.-
Course Requirements:
- Enrolled in both honors-level math and science courses
- Enrolled in one additional honors course or identified as a Young Scholar*
(*Information regarding potential waivers will be provided by the school.)
Math Requirement:
- Students must be enrolled in a full-year Honors Algebra I (for high school credit) or a higher-level math course in 8th grade
- Algebra I Part A does not satisfy this requirement
- The current math course must be verified by the school on the application Grade Point Average (GPA):
- A minimum GPA of 3.5 at the end of 7th grade is required for eligibility
TJHSST Freshman Application Key Components:
- Grade Point Average (GPA) (minimum 3.5 required)
- Student Portrait Sheet, demonstrating Portrait of a Graduate attributes and 21st-century skills
- Problem-Solving Essay
- Experience Factors
- Student Portrait Sheet: Students are required to demonstrate key competencies such as critical thinking, collaboration, and communication through their responses. This section highlights a student’s experiences, achievements, and personal growth.
- Problem-Solving Essay: This essay may involve math and/or science concepts, but more importantly, it evaluates a student’s ability to analyze complex problems, organize ideas clearly, and communicate logical conclusions effectively.
☞ Our Support
While applicants must complete the Student Portrait Sheet and Problem-Solving Essay independently, we provide structured guidance to help students:
Skill Development Focus
- Understand what TJHSST is looking for
- Develop strong writing and communication skills
- Organize and express ideas effectively
- Manage time throughout the application process
Student Portrait Sheet Preparation
- Brainstorm and articulate meaningful accomplishments
- Identify and present key activities and skills
- Develop clear and compelling personal statements
Problem-Solving Essay Preparation
- Strengthen problem-solving skills and scientific reasoning
- Learn to organize multi-step explanations clearly and effectively
- Practice technical writing to communicate complex ideas
- Master essay planning, structuring, and editing
TJHSST Admission Prep One-on-One Tutoring
- Our One-on-One TJHSST Admission Prep Tutoring provides focused, individualized support to help students strengthen their writing and effectively prepare for the application process.
- Through personalized instruction, students develop the skills needed to organize ideas clearly, communicate effectively, and produce strong, well-structured responses for key application components.
Program Details:
- 20 hours of one-on-one tutoring (10 sessions)
- Targeted support in writing, organization, and communication skills
- Personalized guidance tailored to each student’s needs
Requirements:
- Students are required to bring a personal laptop to all tutoring sessions
Top 1% "Experienced and Highly Qualified" TJ Admission Prep Tutor
- Alexandra Nguyen — University of Virginia, National Merit Scholarship Finalist
Tuition: $2,200 for 20 hours
Apply to TJHSST and Decision Process
2026-2027 TJ Admission Prep Group (Winter Course)
Early Bird Tuition: Register by November 18, 2026 for a tuition discount of 10%.
Tuition: $1,350 ⇒ $1,215
Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) has implemented updated admissions requirements beginning with the Class of 2027. Two key components of the application are the Student Portrait Sheet and the Problem-Solving Essay, both of which require thoughtful preparation and strong critical thinking skills.
Our TJ Admission Prep Group Fall Course is designed to help students develop the skills and strategies needed to successfully navigate these components and present a compelling application.
TJHSST Admission Eligibility Requirements:
Applicants to Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) must meet the following criteria.-
Course Requirements:
- Enrolled in both honors-level math and science courses
- Enrolled in one additional honors course or identified as a Young Scholar*
(*Information regarding potential waivers will be provided by the school.)
Math Requirement:
- Students must be enrolled in a full-year Honors Algebra I (for high school credit) or a higher-level math course in 8th grade
- Algebra I Part A does not satisfy this requirement
- The current math course must be verified by the school on the application Grade Point Average (GPA):
- A minimum GPA of 3.5 at the end of 7th grade is required for eligibility
TJHSST Freshman Application Key Components:
- Grade Point Average (GPA) (minimum 3.5 required)
- Student Portrait Sheet, demonstrating Portrait of a Graduate attributes and 21st-century skills
- Problem-Solving Essay
- Experience Factors
- Student Portrait Sheet: Students are required to demonstrate key competencies such as critical thinking, collaboration, and communication through their responses. This section highlights a student’s experiences, achievements, and personal growth.
- Problem-Solving Essay: This essay may involve math and/or science concepts, but more importantly, it evaluates a student’s ability to analyze complex problems, organize ideas clearly, and communicate logical conclusions effectively.
☞ Our Support
While applicants must complete the Student Portrait Sheet and Problem-Solving Essay independently, we provide structured guidance to help students:
Skill Development Focus
- Understand what TJHSST is looking for
- Develop strong writing and communication skills
- Organize and express ideas effectively
- Manage time throughout the application process
Student Portrait Sheet Preparation
- Brainstorm and articulate meaningful accomplishments
- Identify and present key activities and skills
- Develop clear and compelling personal statements
Problem-Solving Essay Preparation
- Strengthen problem-solving skills and scientific reasoning
- Learn to organize multi-step explanations clearly and effectively
- Practice technical writing to communicate complex ideas
- Master essay planning, structuring, and editing
Program Details:
- Small group instruction (maximum 6 students per class) for individualized attention
- Courses offered at our Fairfax and McLean facilities
"2026-2027 TJ Admission Prep Group Winter Course Schedules"
| Fairfax Branch | Class # | McLean Branch | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Day | Date | Time | Day | Date | Time | |
| Sat | Dec. 19 | 12:00pm - 2:00pm | 1* | Sun | Dec. 20 | 1:00pm - 3:00pm |
| Mon | Dec. 21 | 12:00pm - 2:00pm | 2 | Tue | Dec. 22 | 1:00pm - 3:00pm |
| Wed | Dec. 23 | 12:00pm - 2:00pm | 3 | Thu | Dec. 24 | 1:00pm - 3:00pm |
| Sat | Dec. 26 | 12:00pm - 2:00pm | 4 | Sun | Dec. 27 | 1:00pm - 3:00pm |
| Mon | Dec. 28 | 12:00pm - 2:00pm | 5 | Tue | Dec. 29 | 1:00pm - 3:00pm |
| Wed | Dec. 30 | 12:00pm - 2:00pm | 6 | Thu | Dec. 31 | 1:00pm - 3:00pm |
| Sat | Jan. 2 | 12:00pm - 2:00pm | 7 | Sun | Jan. 3 | 1:00pm - 3:00pm |
| Sat | Jan. 9 | 12:00pm - 2:00pm | 8 | Sun | Jan. 10 | 1:00pm - 3:00pm |
| Sat | Jan. 16 | 12:00pm - 2:00pm | 9**
| Sat |
Jan. 16 |
12:00pm - 2:00pm** |
|
| Sun | Jan. 17 | 12:00pm - 2:00pm | 10**
| Sun |
Jan. 17 |
12:00pm - 2:00pm** |
|
| Sat, Jan. 24, 2027 | TJHSST Admission Administration. Good Luck!! | |||||
Top 1% "Experienced and Highly Qualified" TJ Admission Prep Tutor
- Alexandra Nguyen — University of Virginia, National Merit Scholarship Finalist
Early Bird Tuition: Register by November 18, 2026 for a tuition discount of 10%.
Tuition: $1,350 ⇒ $1,215
Apply to TJHSST and Decision Process
2025-2026 TJ Admission Prep Group Summer Course
TJHSST had announced a new admissions policy from the class of 2027 (2022/23 Freshman Round). Two key components are a “student portrait sheet” and a "problem-solving essay".
TJHSST Admission Eligibility Requirements:
- New Requirements : Enrolled in both math and science honors courses. Enrolled in one additional honors course or identified as a Young Scholar*. (*Information regarding potential waivers will be forthcoming.)
- Math Requirements: Applicants to the freshman class at TJHSST must be taking a full-year of Honors Algebra 1 for high school credit or a higher level math course in grade 8 to apply to TJHSST. Algebra 1, Part A does not Tueisfy the math prerequisite for freshman application. Your school must verify the math course you are enrolled in for grade 8 on the application form.
- Grade Point Average (GPA): All applicants to TJHSST, at the completion of 7th grade, must have a GPA of 3.5 or higher in order to be eligible to apply.
Dates To Remember (2025-2026 Freshman Round)
- Monday, October 20: Applications Available - 4:00 pm
- Wednesday, November 12:Last Day to Begin Application - 4:00 pm
(including Accommodation & Alternate Test Day requests) - Friday, November 14:Application Submission Deadline - 4:00 pm
- Wednesday, December 10: Notification to Applicants who do not meet minimum Honors and GPA - 6:00pm
- Saturday, January 24: SPS/Essay Writing Administration
- Saturday, February 21: Inclement Weather Date for February 8
- Wednesday, February 4: Accommodations and Alternate Test Day Requests
- Wednesday, February 11: Inclement Weather Date for February 14
- Wednesday, April 30: Final Notifications Released on or Before (Per Regulation)
* Dates on calendar above may be subject to change
Click here for "Steps to Complete the Application"
TJHSST Freshman Application Key Components:
Students will be evaluated on their grade point average (GPA); a portrait sheet where they will be asked to demonstrate Portrait of a Graduate attributes and 21st centaury skills; a problem-solving essay; and experience factors.
- Complete the Student Portrait Sheet: Students will demonstrate Portrait of a Graduate attributes and 21st Century Skills.
- Problem-Solving Essay: May include math and/or science, but will most likely be a test mainly of the students’ ability to organize and communicate conclusions about a complex topic.
☞ Applicants will compose and complete the student portrait sheets and problem-solving essay themselves, but we can help the student to:
Skill Focus
- Understand what TJHSST wants
- Write effective essays
- Manage their time
Student Portrait Sheet
- Brainstorm and explain accomplishment
- Think of activities and skills
- Develop their personal statements
Problem-solving essay
- Improve problem solving skills and scientific literacy
- Learn to organize a many step explanation effectively
- Practice technical writing to communicate the complex ideas
- Master essay planning
- Editing
See below for our full list of courses, offered at our Fairfax and McLean facilities. All classes are capped at 6 students to allow individualized attention.
"2025-2026 TJ Admission Prep Group Summer Course Schedules"
| Fairfax Branch (Mon. & Wed., 3-5pm) |
Class # | McLean Branch (M/T/W/Th/F, 4-6pm) |
||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Day | Date | Time | Day | Date | Time | |
| Mon | June 16 | 3:00pm - 5:00pm | 1 | Mon | Aug. 4 | 4:00pm - 6:00pm |
| Wed | June 18 | 3:00pm - 5:00pm | 2 | Tue | Aug. 5 | 4:00pm - 6:00pm |
| Mon | June 23 | 3:00pm - 5:00pm | 3 | Wed | Aug. 6 | 4:00pm - 6:00pm |
| Wed | June 25 | 3:00pm - 5:00pm | 4 | Thu | Aug. 7 | 4:00pm - 6:00pm |
| Mon | June 30 | 3:00pm - 5:00pm | 5 | Fri | Aug. 8 | 4:00pm - 6:00pm |
| Wed | July 2 | 3:00pm - 5:00pm | 6 | Mon | Aug. 11 | 4:00pm - 6:00pm |
| Mon | July 7 | 3:00pm - 5:00pm | 7 | Tue | Aug. 12 | 4:00pm - 6:00pm |
| Wed | July 9 | 3:00pm - 5:00pm | 8 | Wed | Aug. 13 | 4:00pm - 6:00pm |
| Mon | July 14 | 3:00pm - 5:00pm | 9 | Thu | Aug. 14 | 4:00pm - 6:00pm |
| Wed | July 16 | 3:00pm - 5:00pm | 10 | Fri | Aug. 15 | 4:00pm - 6:00pm |
Top 1% "Experienced and Highly Qualified" TJ Admission Essay Tutor
- Alexandra Nguyen — University of Virginia, National Merit Scholarship Finalist
- Anna Durden — TJ Graduate, College of William & Mary
Tuition: $1,300