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 did not get in the first time: Did I miss my chance?

Good news—you haven’t. Each spring, TJHSST opens a competitive sophomore admissions process for current 9th grade students who want to join the school as sophomores. It’s not widely publicized, but for high-achieving students with strong STEM foundations, it offers a rare second chance to join one of the top high school programs in the nation.

This guide breaks down TJHSST sophomore admissions in full: eligibility, application components, deadlines, and strategies for success.

Who Can Apply for TJHSST Sophomore Admissions?

To be eligible for sophomore admission to TJHSST in 2025, students must meet all of the following requirements:

Eligibility Checklist:

• Be currently enrolled in 9th grade (Class of 2028)

• Reside with a parent or legal guardian in one of the following school districts:

  • Fairfax County (including Fairfax City)

  • Arlington County

  • Loudoun County

  • Prince William County

  • Falls Church City

• Be on track to complete seven high school-level credits by the end of freshman year

  
  

Required Courses for TJHSST Sophomore Admissions

Applicants must have completed or be in the process of completing these specific high school-level courses by the end of 9th grade:

Subject Area	Credit
English	1.0
Algebra I	1.0
Geometry	1.0
Biology	1.0
World Language	1.0
Health/PE	1.0
Elective (any subject)	1.0

If any of these were completed in middle school, students must provide official documentation such as transcripts, course descriptions, or letters from instructors verifying that the curriculum aligns with high school standards.

What’s in the Application?

The TJHSST sophomore admissions process mirrors the standard freshman application but includes additional documentation and review. Applicants must submit:

1. Academic Transcript

Should include:

• Final grades from middle school (if applicable to high school coursework)

• 9th grade first semester grades

• Documentation for any alternative or equivalent course completion

2. Student Portrait Sheet (SPS)

This is the most comprehensive narrative component of the application. It consists of:

• Short answers

• Reflective writing prompts

• A math/science-based Problem-Solving Essay (PSE)

3. Teacher Recommendations

Three total are required:

• One from a math teacher

• One from a science teacher

• One from an English or humanities teacher

Recommendations should speak to your academic potential, classroom engagement, and collaborative mindset.

4. Optional Standardized Test Scores

PSAT or SAT scores are not required but strongly encouraged if taken. These scores can serve as an additional indicator of academic readiness.

Key Deadlines: TJHSST Sophomore Admissions – Class of 2028

Milestone	Date
Application opens	April 1, 2025
Transcript and optional test score deadline	April 23, 2025 (by 4:00 PM)
Transcript approval notifications	April 25, 2025 (by 4:00 PM)
Teacher recommendation deadline	May 2, 2025
Final application deadline	May 16, 2025 (by 4:00 PM)
Decision release	June 30, 2025

How Competitive Are TJHSST Sophomore Admissions?

This round is extremely selective. Historically, TJ offers fewer than 20 sophomore seats across all participating school districts.

These openings only exist if current students leave the school after 9th grade. As a result, TJHSST looks for applicants who not only meet the academic requirements but demonstrate exceptional maturity, curiosity, and alignment with the school’s STEM-focused mission.

Expectations are high—and competition is intense.

How to Strengthen Your Application

Prioritize Academic Excellence

• Grades in Algebra, Geometry, and Biology should be particularly strong

• If you’ve taken courses beyond the required credits (e.g., Algebra II or Chemistry), include them

Include PSAT Scores (If Strong)

• A score above 1400-1500 can significantly strengthen your case

• If you haven’t taken the PSAT or SAT, don’t worry—they’re technically optional

Use the SPS to Tell a Cohesive STEM Story

• Focus on how you think, not just what you’ve done

• Share a project, experiment, or challenge that shaped your interest in STEM

• Avoid generic or surface-level answers—depth and authenticity matter

Request Recommendations Early

• Ask teachers who know your thought process, your classroom contributions, and your character—not just your grades

Ensure All Coursework Is Verified

• If a required course was completed outside of school (e.g., online), include a syllabus, transcript, and/or teacher letter

• Incomplete documentation may result in disqualification

Final Thoughts on TJHSST Sophomore Admissions

The TJHSST sophomore admissions process is a narrow, highly competitive path into one of the nation’s premier STEM magnet schools. It’s designed for students who not only meet academic benchmarks but show true passion for discovery, challenge, and innovation.

If you're a standout 9th grader with the transcript, mindset, and drive to match TJ’s mission, this is your chance to join an environment where curiosity thrives and opportunity multiplies.

Start preparing early. Be detailed and intentional in your application. And above all, present a clear picture of who you are—and why TJ is the right next step for your academic journey.

FAQ

Is this the same application process as 8th grade applicants follow?

No. Rising sophomores have a separate application, with a distinct set of deadlines, forms, and eligibility checks.

Can I apply if I haven’t completed Geometry?

No. Geometry is a required course for sophomore applicants. If you've completed it outside of school, you must provide verified documentation showing equivalency.

Is there a formal admissions test like the one TJ used to offer?

No. There is no multiple-choice exam. The Student Portrait Sheet acts as the evaluative piece of the application that assesses academic reasoning and problem-solving ability.

How do I access the application?

You must first submit your transcript and course documentation by the April deadline. If approved, TJ will grant access to the full application portal.