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DATA & INSIGHTS — TJ Admissions

At TJTestPrep, we provide a comprehensive understanding of the TJ Admissions process. Unlike many other prep programs, we share data-backed insights to help students and families prepare effectively.

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We’ve gathered data directly from the TJHSST Admissions Office. Our EduAvenues/TJTestPrep Data & Insights equips you with a clear understanding of what it takes to succeed.

Key Insights

  • A strong GPA is crucial but not the sole factor for admission. In other words, a strong GPA is necessary but not alone sufficient for admissions.

  • The middle school a student attends can significantly impact their chances.

  • Students from certain private schools often face additional challenges.

  • Having an Experience Factor (e.g., Free-Reduced Lunch, English as a Second Language Official Program, Special Education) can greatly enhance the likelihood of admission.

  • The Student Portrait Sheet (SPS) and Problem-Solving Essay (PSE) are pivotal in differentiating applicants with similar academic profiles.

  • TJ Admissions aims for representation from all middle schools, although the process remains competitive.

Section 1: GPA
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Why GPA Alone Isn’t Enough

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While maintaining a high GPA is essential, TJ Admissions requires students to demonstrate well-rounded strengths. Strong performance in the SPS and PSE can set applicants apart. Admissions data shows that even students with near-perfect GPAs can be waitlisted or denied, underscoring the importance of a robust application.

Section 2: Special Experience Factors and School Type
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Importance of Experience Factors

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Experience Factors, such as being an English Language Learner or having an economic disadvantage, provide statistical advantages in the admissions process. However, all applicants must also present strong essays and applications to succeed.

How the SPS and PSE Impact Admissions​

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The SPS and PSE provide an opportunity to showcase creativity, problem-solving skills, and alignment with TJHSST’s mission. Admissions officers place significant weight on these sections to differentiate applicants.

Section 3: Race/Ethnicity
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Race and Ethnicity in TJ Admissions​

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While race and ethnicity are not explicitly considered in the TJ admissions process (i.e. it's technically race and gender blind), TJ’s admissions changes were aimed at increasing diversity. This is achieved indirectly through factors like middle school representation and Experience Factors.

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Admissions data shows that students from "underrepresented" racial and ethnic backgrounds often benefit from these changes. However, this impact appears to be declining in recent years, as we find a declining admission rate for these students in recent years. However, competition remains fierce for all applicants, regardless of background.

Section 4: Middle School
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Note: For middle schools with less than 10 admitted students, FCPS hides the data in order to protect privacy. 

How Middle School Impacts Admissions
 

The middle school a student attends can significantly affect their chances. Historically, students from middle schools with fewer past TJ applicants have seen higher admission rates due to efforts to ensure broad representation. Conversely, admissions rates for students from previously high-admitting schools have decreased.
 

Key takeaway: Attending a middle school with a limited history of TJ admissions can provide a major statistical advantage.

 

Why TJTestPrep?

  • Comprehensive Support: We guide students through every aspect of the admissions process.

  • Data-Driven Insights: Leverage admissions data to refine your strategy.

  • Proven Results: Our methods have helped numerous students gain admission.
     

Get Started

Visit our website to explore our TJ Prep programs and resources. Whether you’re just starting or looking for targeted support, we’re here to help.

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