The TJ Admissions Blog

What Math Level is Really Needed for TJHSST?

As admissions experts guiding families through the hyper-competitive Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) application, we are consis

The Eighth Grader’s Roadmap to TJHSST Admission Success

If you're a student entering eighth grade and aspiring to attend Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST), you're at a key point in your

The PSAT: Why It Matters More Than You Think

Every fall, millions of high school sophomores and juniors take the PSAT/NMSQT  — the Preliminary SAT and National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. To many, i

Debunking the Myth: Does Attending TJHSST Hurt Your Chances of Getting Into a Top College?

One of the most common concerns among students and parents considering Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST)  is whether attending th

What Is the TJHSST Admissions Scandal?

For decades, admission to Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) was seen as a straightforward, if incredibly...

Official TJHSST Information Sessions 2025-26: Your Guide to the Class of 2030 Admissions

The admissions cycle for the Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology (TJHSST) Class of 2030 is officially underway. Fairfax...

The Unique TJHSST Homecoming Experience

Forget everything you think you know about high school homecoming. At Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, "HOCO"...

TJHSST Sophomore Admissions: Everything You Need to Know

Overview of TJHSST Sophomore Admissions Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) accepts a small number of rising...

How to Get into TJHSST: Complete Admissions Guide 2025

Learn how to get into TJHSST with our comprehensive guide. Discover GPA requirements, application components (SPS & PSE), eligibility criteria, and proven strategies for TJ admissi...

Senior Research Lab Deep Dive #2: TJHSST Computer Systems Lab

Continuing our series on Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology's specialized research facilities, we now turn our...

Navigating the 2025–26 Mathematics and Statistics Curriculum Changes at TJHSST

Introduction TJHSST is rolling out sweeping changes to its mathematics and statistics curriculum starting in the 2025–26 school year....

Senior Research Lab Deep Dive #1: TJHSST Biotechnology Lab

Welcome to this series, where we'll be exploring the research facilities at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology. Our...

What Is tjSTAR? A Look at TJ’s Senior Research Symposium

tjSTAR  (Thomas Jefferson Symposium to Advance Research) is a school-wide research day at TJHSST that takes place near the end of each...

What Are My Chances #8: Stone Hill Middle School

Stone Hill Middle School is one of the most active contributors to the TJHSST applicant pool, especially from Loudoun County. But what do...

Why Loudoun Students May Start TJHSST With a Lower GPA

If you’re coming to TJHSST from a Loudoun County middle school or are currently a Loudoun student at TJHSST, there’s one detail about...

What Are My Chances #7: Frost Middle School

Each year, around 3,000 students apply to Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST), and students from Frost...

Inside HackTJ: NoVA's Biggest HS Hackathon

If you're exploring Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST), you've likely come across the term HackTJ. But what...

TJHSST Admissions 2025–26 Calendar: Key Dates to Remember

If you are considering applying to Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) for the 2025–26 academic year to...

Inside TJHSST’s Techstravaganza

When people think about TJHSST, they usually picture rigorous STEM classes, competitive admissions, and intense workloads. But there’s...

Summer Prep for TJHSST: How to Maximize Your Chances of Getting Into TJ

Discover proven summer strategies to strengthen your TJHSST application. Learn how to build STEM skills, practice for the SPS and PSE, engage in meaningful activities, and prepare ...

What Are My Chances #6: Brambleton Middle School

If you're a student at Brambleton Middle School with your sights set on Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST),...

What Are My Chances #5: Rocky Run Middle School

If you’re an ambitious student at Rocky Run Middle School eyeing admission to Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology...

Overview of IBEST at TJHSST

What Is IBEST at TJHSST? IBEST  stands for Integrated Biology, English, and Statistics . It's not a club, a lab, or an elective. It's a...

Which TJHSST Clubs You Should Join Based on Your Intended Major

One of the most overwhelming—but exciting—aspects of Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) is its sheer number...

The Computer Science Pathway at TJHSST

Overview of Computer Science at TJHSST Computer Science at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) is a core...

Inside TJHSST's Mentorship Program

At TJHSST, research is more than a buzzword—it’s the backbone of the school's academic philosophy. Most students fulfill their senior...

🔥 TJHSST Admissions Policy Under Fire: 2025 Investigation & What It Means For You

Thomas Jefferson High School Admissions Policy In a dramatic move that’s stirring national attention, the U.S. Department of Education’s...

TJ Admissions Policy Under Fire: 2025 Investigation & What It Means For You

The U.S. Department of Education has launched a Title VI investigation into TJHSST admissions policy changes. Here's what it means for families and students.

Accepted to TJHSST? What to Do in the Next 30 Days

You did it! You opened your admissions portal, held your breath, and saw the word “Congratulations.” You’re officially in — accepted to...

Rejected from TJHSST? 7 Powerful Ways to Bounce Back Stronger

Let’s cut to the chase — you didn’t get into TJHSST, and it hurts. You gave it your all. You practiced, wrote, prepared, and hoped. And...

Waitlisted at TJHSST? What to Know and What to Do Next

Opening the TJHSST admissions portal and seeing the word “Wait Pool” can spark mixed emotions — relief that you weren’t rejected, but...

Comparing TJHSST, AET, AOS, and Langley High School: A Detailed Guide for Students and Parents

Northern Virginia offers an array of elite academic programs for high-achieving students. Among them, Thomas Jefferson High School for...

Where Do TJHSST Students Go to College

Every year, Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) sends graduates to some of the most prestigious colleges and...

How to Decide Between TJHSST and Your Base School

It’s not as simple as it seems. Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST)  is one of the most prestigious public...

When Will TJHSST Admissions Results Release Date 2025 Be Announced? Find Out Here

Every spring, thousands of eighth-grade students and their families eagerly await one of the most anticipated emails of their academic...

Inside the Signature Electives at TJHSST: What Makes the Curriculum Truly Unique

When most students think of Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) , they picture competitive math teams,...

The TJHSST Math Pathway Explained

The TJHSST math pathway explained  here reveals why the math program at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology is among...

What Are My Chances #4: Cooper Middle School

If you’re a student at Cooper Middle School  dreaming of getting into Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) ,...

What Are My Chances #3: Longfellow Middle School

If you’re a student at Longfellow Middle School—or a parent watching from the sidelines—you’ve probably heard it before: Longfellow sends...

TJHSST Sophomore Admissions: Can You Still Get In as a Freshman?

If you didn’t apply to Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST)  in 8th grade, you might be wondering, or if you...

What Are My Chances #2: Kilmer Middle School

If you’re an ambitious student at Kilmer Middle School eyeing admission to Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology...

Life at TJHSST: What Incoming Freshmen Should Know

A Guide for Future TJHSST Students Congratulations!  If you’ve completed the TJHSST admissions process , you’re probably wondering what...

What Are My Chances #1: Rachel Carson Middle School?

If you're a student at Rachel Carson Middle School  considering applying to Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology...

Vlad Tenev’s $125,000 Donation to TJHSST: Who He Is and What It Means for the School

Vlad Tenev, co-founder and CEO of Robinhood , has once again made headlines—this time for his generous $125,000 donation  to his alma...

The Most Impactful STEM Extracurriculars TJ Applicants can participate in

Extracurricular activities are not a formal requirement for TJHSST admissions, but many accepted students participate in STEM-related...

Easiest & Hardest Middle Schools to Get Into TJ From

Admission to Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST)  is highly competitive, and acceptance rates can vary...

Michael Mukai Returns as TJHSST Principal: What It Means for the School

​Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) has embarked on a new chapter with the appointment of Michael Mukai  as...

TJHSST’s Legacy in the Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS) and ISEF

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) has long been a powerhouse in national and international science...

Analyzing Trends in TJHSST Admissions Prompts: What We’ve Observed

The Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) admissions process has undergone significant changes in recent...

Major Changes to TJHSST Courses: What Students Need to Know

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST), renowned for its rigorous STEM curriculum, is undergoing significant...

Breaking Down the TJHSST Admissions Process: What You Need to Know

The Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST)  is one of the nation’s most prestigious STEM-focused schools,...

Breaking Down the Portrait of a Graduate Skills for SPS Success

The Portrait of a Graduate  is a roadmap to personal and academic growth, emphasizing essential skills to thrive in Springfield Public...

What Makes TJ Different: A Look at 8th Period

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) is renowned for its rigorous academics and innovative programs. However,...

The Do’s and Don’ts of Answering SPS Prompts

The Student Portrait Sheet (SPS) plays a pivotal role in the TJHSST application process. It offers you the chance to showcase your unique...

Does Attending TJHSST Make It Easier or Harder for College Admissions?

Every year, families wrestle with the same question: “Will attending Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST)...

Why GPA Is Critical for TJ Prep Success: Insights from TJHSST Data

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) consistently ranks as one of the nation’s most prestigious STEM-focused...

The Role of Race and Ethnicity in TJHSST Admissions

Applying to Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) can feel like a daunting process. Known for its focus on...

How Experience Factors Shape TJHSST Admissions Success

The journey to gain admission into Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) is highly competitive, with thousands...

Insider Strategies for the TJ Problem Solving Essay (PSE)

Master the TJHSST Problem Solving Essay with proven strategies from TJ alumni. Learn what evaluators look for and how to structure winning responses.

What Happens If I Run Out of Time on Exam Day for the TJHSST Admissions Exam?

The TJHSST Admissions Exam is no easy feat, with only 90 minutes to complete two demanding sections: the Student Portrait Sheet (SPS) and the...

What Happens If I Get the TJHSST PSE Incorrect?

If you’ve applied to Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST), you know how intense the admissions process can...

How to Write a Standout TJ Student Portrait Sheet (SPS)

Learn how to craft a compelling TJHSST Student Portrait Sheet that showcases your unique story and makes you stand out to admissions evaluators.

TJHSST Admissions Myths Debunked: Common Misconceptions About Getting Into TJ

Debunking 10+ common myths about TJHSST admissions. Learn the truth about GPA requirements, extracurricular activities, math prerequisites, and what TJ really looks for in applican...

Dealing with Application Stress: Managing Time and Expectations

The TJHSST application process can be stressful, especially when balancing school, extracurricular activities, and preparation for the...

TJ Alum Leads Sapien to $8.7 Million Seed Funding

TJHSST has a long-standing tradition of nurturing innovators who make significant impacts across various fields. Continuing this legacy,...

Nooks Secures $43 Million Series B: A TJHSST Alum’s Vision Revolutionizes Remote Work

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) continues to be a launchpad for innovators who shape industries. Rohan...

How TJHSST Prepares You for College and STEM Careers

Attending Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) offers a unique opportunity to develop the skills and...

Principal of Top-Ranked Virginia High School, TJHSST, Resigns Amid Declined Ranking and DEI Pushes

In a surprising turn of events, Dr. Ann Bonitatibus, the long-standing principal of Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and...

How ECyberMission Can Strengthen Your TJHSST Admissions Application

For students applying to Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST), having the right extracurriculars can make a...

How the 1.5% Quota Rule Works in TJHSST Admissions

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) is one of the most prestigious public high schools in the country, and...

New ACT Format in 2025: What You Need to Know

The ACT has been a vital component of the college admissions process in the United States for decades. As students face an increasingly...

Why NSHSS Membership Might Not Be Worth It

Understanding College Admissions: The Value of Extracurricular Activities In the competitive world of college admissions, students often...

TJHSST Admissions 2024-25 Calendar: Key Dates to Remember

If you are considering applying to Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) for the 2024-25 academic year, it is...

Going Beyond AP: Advanced Learning Opportunities at TJHSST

I. What are Post-AP Classes, and how do they relate to TJHSST Admissions? Post-AP classes at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and...

What Is IBEST at TJHSST?

Learn about IBEST (Integrated Biology, English, and Statistics) at TJHSST—a freshman learning community that prepares students for TJ's research labs.

TJHSST Mentorship Program: A Complete Guide

Learn how TJHSST's Mentorship Program allows seniors to conduct research with professionals in real-world environments, including structure, requirements, and how to get started.

Rejected from TJHSST? Here's What to Do Next

You didn't get into TJHSST, and it hurts. Here's how to process this moment, learn from it, and come back even stronger—if not for TJ, then for the many doors that are still wide o...

Supreme Court Finalizes TJHSST Admissions Process Amidst Concerns Over Performance Gaps

In a definitive ruling, the Supreme Court has put to rest the contentious debate surrounding the admissions process at Thomas Jefferson...

TJHSST Admissions Case: A Detailed Look into Supreme Court's Consideration

Key Takeaways: The Supreme Court shows interest in the TJHSST admissions case, signaling a potential review. This case follows the...

PART 1: How to Start Preparing for College in Your Freshman Year of High School

Getting a head start on your college preparation during your freshman year of high school isn't just a good idea; it's a game-changer. By...

TJHSST Admissions REAL 2024 Math/Science Problem-Solving Essay (PSE) Solution

Introduction TJHSST, Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, is not just a school; it's a dream destination for students...

The Digital Shift: Understanding the DSAT and Its Impact on College Admissions

Source: https://testinnovators.com/blog/digital-sat-vs-actinfographic/ With the unveiling of the Digital SAT (DSAT) by the College Board...

Coalition for TJ Continues Fight for Equality in TJHSST Admissions

In a closely watched case regarding the admissions policy of Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST), the Fourth...

Should I take Summer Geometry?

Summer is a great time to explore new interests, travel, and unwind from the school year. However, for students who are motivated to...

Inside Look: Senior Research at TJ

The Senior Research Program at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) is an opportunity for students to engage...

How Does TJHSST prepare students for college and beyond?

The Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) is a prestigious public high school located in Fairfax County,...

Should I take PE over the summer?

Physical Education (PE) is a mandatory course for high school students in many countries. For Virginia students, PE is mandatory in 9th...

Should I select AP or DE courses?

When it comes to choosing between Advanced Placement (AP) and Dual Enrollment (DE) courses in high school, many students and parents are...

TJHSST REAL 2023 Admissions Assessment Problem-Solving Essay (PSE) — Complete Solution

Want to master the Math/Science Problem-Solving Essay? Check out one of our many solutions below, and subscribe to our YouTube channel!

Be SKEPTICAL of these types of "Prep Centers"

We frequently get asked, "do you do preparation for the Academies of Loudoun (AOL/AOS/AET)?" The short answer is no (and we'd like to...

What does the Student-Portrait-Sheet (SPS) look like?

We frequently get asked the question: what is the TJ Student Portrait Sheet (SPS)? The Student Portrait Sheet (SPS) is a series of...

What does the Problem-Solving Essay (PSE) look like?

The Math/Science Problem-Solving Essay (PSE) is a writing exam where the applicant will write a response to a Math or Science problem,...

Federals Appeals Court is set to hear oral arguments on the TJHSST Admissions case in September

Thomas Jefferson had an admissions procedure that involved grades, standardized tests, teacher recommendations, and essays until October...

TJHSST REAL 2017 Admissions Assessment Problem-Solving Essay (PSE) — Complete Solution

Want to master the Math/Science Problem-Solving Essay? Check out one of our many solutions below, and subscribe to our YouTube channel!

TJ now looks for both AAP and Non-AAP students!

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST), offered admission to 550 students for the Class of 2025. This was the...

TJ is now admitting more students with less advanced math!

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST), offered admission to 550 students for the Class of 2025. This was the...

Certain Counties/Jurisdictions have higher acceptance rates to TJ! Find out if yours is one of them…

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST), offered admission to 550 students for the Class of 2025. These 550...

Admissions Timeline for 2022-23

This year the class of 2027 admissions process lasts until the end of April 28th. “Applications” will be open from Monday, October 24th...

TJHSST REAL 2022 MAKEUP Admissions Assessment Problem-Solving Essay (PSE) — Complete Solution

TJHSST REAL 2022 MAKEUP Admissions Assessment Problem-Solving Essay (PSE) — Complete Solution

TJHSST REAL 2016 Admissions Assessment Problem-Solving Essay (PSE) — Complete Solution

Want to master the Math/Science Problem-Solving Essay? Check out one of our many solutions below, and subscribe to our YouTube channel!

TJHSST Admissions Case Heads to U.S. Supreme Court -- Appeals Court Grants "Stay" Order

The Federal Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals voted 2-1 on March 31st to reverse the District Court’s decision on the “Stay” order (Class...

Federal Appeals Court Grants Stay Order in TJHSST Admissions Case

The Fairfax County School Board revised the admissions policy for Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJ), an...

Meet the Staffer: Jason Jayanth

Meet Jason Jayanth EA Development Staff Jason Jayanth is student from Loudoun County, Virginia. As a former student of...

TJ ADMISSIONS: Judge denies stay order, FCPS brings uncertainty for applicants to Class of 2026

Federal judge Claude Hilton denied Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) a stay to proceed with the current admissions system at Thomas...

Judge rules TJHSST Admissions changes ILLEGAL; FCPS to request a "stay"

A federal judge ruled two weeks ago that the new admissions protocols adopted by Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology...

TJHSST REAL 2022 Admissions Assessment Problem-Solving Essay — Complete Solution

Check out our solution to the 2022 Admissions Problem-Solving Essay (PSE) below! Please leave a like, comment, or subscribe to see more...

Worried about the Math or Science Problem-Solving Essay? Study these topics:

Starting in 2016, TJ introduced a problem-solving essay. Every year, this has been primarily math-based on topics ranging from the...

TJ Applications Now Open — Apply Early to Avoid Errors

Applications to TJ are now open! While the deadline to apply is November 19th at 4pm, we encourage you to apply ASAP, as there is a...

TJTestPrep TJHSST Admissions Course Overview

Hi everyone! We have recently updated our TJHSST Admissions Course for the upcoming school year. Our new course has 29+ Instructional Videos,...

TJHSST Admissions Assessment 2021 Math Essay Solution

Watch our video describing the solution to the Math Essay Problem for the 2021 TJHSST Admissions Test! If you enjoyed our video, please...

TJTestPrep Holiday Special

TJTestPrep Holiday Special

Admissions Tip #8: Know Basic Trigonometry

Typically, students follow the generic math sequence in the order Algebra 1, Geometry, and Trig/Algebra 2. TJHSST Admissions claims to be tailor

Admissions Tip #7: Do not make athletics your main focus

Throughout elementary and middle school, many students religiously participate in athletics, from house Basketball to Soccer, to Tae Kwon...

Admissions Tip #6: Look to TJ’s Mission and Core Beliefs

The question on everyone’s minds is: how do we write the SIS? You may have a lot of ideas - write about extracurricular activities, show...

Admissions Tip #5: Avoid NJHS

During middle school, many students are offered the chance to join their school’s chapter of the National Junior Honor Society, also...

Admissions Tip #4: Look into specific courses and programs at TJ

We work with a lot of students. Every year, the vast majority come to us without a clear reason as to why they actually want to apply to...

Admissions Tip #3: Practice taking exams in one sitting

Test-taking can be an exhausting process for any student. Students are asked to focus on an exam for hours on end with few breaks in...

Welcome! Admissions Tip #1: Stack Your Extracurricular Activities

Welcome to the TJTestPrep Blog Series! We will be releasing weekly blog posts regarding Round 2 of the TJHSST Admissions Process with...

Blog

5 Common TJ SPS Mistakes That Hurt Your Application (And How to Avoid Them)

Learn the most common Student Portrait Sheet mistakes that hurt TJ applications. Get expert tips on what evaluators look for and how to write a standout SPS.

Is TJ Prep Worth It? A Cost-Benefit Analysis for Northern Virginia Families

Should you invest in TJ prep courses? We break down the costs, benefits, and ROI of TJHSST admissions preparation to help Northern Virginia families decide.

When Should You Start TJ Prep? The Complete Timeline for 6th-8th Graders

Discover the ideal timeline for TJ prep. Learn when 6th, 7th, and 8th graders should start preparing for TJHSST admissions and what to focus on at each stage.

Waitlisted at TJHSST: Everything You Need to Know

Being waitlisted at TJHSST isn't the end—it's a second chance. Learn what it means, your odds of acceptance, and how to maximize your chances.