Thomas Jefferson High School Continues to Increase Access for All

Two years after Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) initially took steps to improve equitable access to Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST), data confirms that the school is on a good path to becoming an accessible school to students from all backgrounds. 

TJHSST is a Governor’s school within FCPS that regularly ranks as one of the top public schools in the country. Admission was offered to 550 students from the class of 2026 from more than 2,500 qualified applicants. 

The prospective class of 2026 is diverse by every measure including geography, socioeconomic status, gender, English learners, and race/ethnicity. 

Components considered during the admission process are outlined on the FCPS website. 

Every FCPS middle school is represented among the students offered admission to TJHSST. The students accepted for the newest class continue to demonstrate they are well prepared for the rigorous academic requirements of the school. The class’s average GPA is 3.96. 

Established in 1985, Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology is a Governor’s School, emphasizing the sciences, mathematics, and technology. The school’s mission is to provide students with a challenging learning environment focused on math, science, and technology; to inspire joy at the prospect of discovery; and to foster a culture of innovation based on ethical behavior and the shared interests of humanity.

TJHSST Admissions Data, Class of 2026

TJ Admissions received applications from 2,544 qualified students for enrollment in the 2022-23 school year. 

High Caliber Students

• The average GPA for applicants was 3.8462. 
• The average GPA for students offered admission to the Class of ‘26 is 3.9558
• All students offered admission met the accelerated (honors) coursework requirement for applicants.

Diverse by Every Measure

• All FCPS middle schools are represented in the Class of ‘26.
  • Carson Middle School (50)
  • Cooper Middle School (16)
  • Frost Middle School (24)
  • Glasgow Middle School (13)
  • Kilmer Middle School (12)
  • Lake Braddock Middle School (16)
  • Longfellow Middle School (37)
  • Rocky Run Middle School (24)
  • Sandburg Middle School (12)
  • Twain Middle School (16)
  • All other middle schools had 10 or fewer offers.
• Economically disadvantaged students comprise 20.73% of the class of ‘26. 

• 5.09% of offered students are English Language Learners.    

• Female students represent 55.45% of all offers. 

• Black students received 5.82% of offers. 
• Hispanic students received 8.18% of offers.
• White students received 21.27% of offers.
• Asian students received 59.82% of offers. 
• 97.09% of offered students come from public schools. 

Class of 2025 News Release  https://www.fcps.edu/news/tjhsst-offers-admission-550-students-broadens-access-students-who-have-aptitude-stem