At TJTestPrep, we provide a comprehensive understanding of the TJ Admissions process. Unlike many other prep programs, we share data-backed insights gathered directly from the TJHSST Admissions Office to help students and families prepare effectively.
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.
Even students with perfect 4.0 GPAs have only a ~28% admission rate. This means 72% of straight-A students are denied. A strong GPA is necessary but not alone sufficient for admissions—the SPS and PSE are what truly differentiate applicants with similar academic profiles.
Experience Factors provide statistical advantages in the admissions process. However, all applicants must also present strong essays and applications to succeed.
Experience Factors (EFs) such as Free/Reduced Lunch, English Learner status, and Special Education status provide statistical advantages in the admissions process. However, all applicants must also present strong essays and applications to succeed.
The Student Portrait Sheet and Problem-Solving Essay provide an opportunity to showcase creativity, problem-solving skills, and alignment with TJHSST's mission. Admissions officers place significant weight on these sections.
The SPS consists of multiple short-answer questions that allow students to showcase their interests, experiences, and personality beyond grades.
The PSE is a timed, proctored essay that tests analytical thinking, problem-solving approach, and ability to communicate solutions clearly.
The middle school a student attends can significantly affect their chances. TJ Admissions aims for representation from all middle schools, although the process remains competitive.
Attending a middle school with a limited history of TJ admissions can provide a major statistical advantage. Students from previously high-admitting schools face more competition, while schools with fewer past applicants often see higher admission rates due to efforts to ensure broad representation.
This data shows admissions patterns before the Fall 2020 admissions changes. Compare this to the current data above to understand how the new holistic admissions process has shifted outcomes across different middle schools.
Our data-driven approach, combined with insider knowledge from TJHSST alumni, gives students the edge they need to succeed.
Leverage admissions data to refine your strategy and focus on what actually matters.
We guide students through every aspect of the admissions process—SPS, PSE, and beyond.
100+ students admitted each of the last 4 cycles, with a 73% admission rate.
Data presented on this page is gathered from publicly available TJHSST Admissions Office reports, FCPS School Board presentations, and our proprietary analysis of admissions trends. Individual results may vary based on application quality and cohort competitiveness.
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