TJ Prep
We’ve been at this for nearly a decade, and our approach to TJ Prep is anything but cookie-cutter. Admissions officers don’t want perfect students — they want clear thinkers and curious minds. That’s exactly what our SPS and PSE program helps students become. Whether in person or online, in small groups or 1:1, our students work through a curriculum we’ve built — and continually update — to reflect the latest in admissions trends.
We know what TJ is looking for, and we help students show it.
For the Student Portrait Sheet, we cover:
● How to plan, structure, draft, and revise effectively
● Development of core stories that flex across multiple prompts
● Ways to highlight FCPS’ Portrait of a Graduate traits
● Specificity, clarity, and narrative arc
● Grammar slip-ups to avoid
● How to manage time without sacrificing quality
For the Problem-Solving Essay, we focus on:
● Clear thinking and step-by-step math writing
● Refresher on key math and science topics likely to appear
● Strategies that showcase creative and critical thinking
● Highlighting individual strengths — providing but not forcing a template
● Pacing strategies that keep students calm and in control
Proven Results
Last cycle, about 70% of our students were offered admission to TJ — a number we’re proud of, knowing there are school-based quotas and experience factors outside anyone’s control.
About the TJ Test
The Student Portrait Sheet (SPS)
This isn’t just a form — and it’s definitely not just a list of extracurricular activities.
The SPS is TJ’s way of asking, “Who are you, really?” Students have four short-answer prompts (with a 1,500-character limit each) to share the experiences, interests, and goals that make them a strong match for TJ.
We help students move past the obvious and dig into the good stuff: self-reflection, aspirations, and moments that connect their story to TJ’s values and FCPS’s Portrait of a Graduate. With a little structure and the right strategy, students learn to write answers that show they are curious, reflective, ready to grow—and stick with TJ admissions.
The Problem-Solving Essay (PSE)
This isn’t just a math problem — it’s a thinking problem. In 30 minutes, students are asked to tackle a multi-step math or science prompt and explain how they got there. The best responses do more than just show the steps — they connect to real-world ideas or even ethical dilemmas. (Yes, all that in half an hour.)
We train students for whatever version of the PSE shows up. Whether it leans science-y, math-y, or somewhere in between, they’ll be ready to think clearly, write cleanly, and show off the kind of flexible thinking TJ loves.
The Timeline
Each fall, TJ opens its application for students to submit basic demographic information and confirm eligibility. Testing typically happens in early February, but dates can shift — the most up-to-date timeline is always available on TJ’s website here.
Our Services
We offer both small-group classes and private 1:1 tutoring for TJ Prep. Not sure what’s best for your student? Click here to book a free consult — we’ll help you find the right fit. Ready to jump in? Group class sign-ups are just below.
7th Grade Spring TJ Prep 2025
This course helps 7th graders get a head start — learning how to write about themselves with clarity and purpose, and how to approach math and science prompts with confidence.
It’s not about test prep (yet) — it’s about building the mindset and tools they’ll need when it’s their turn.
15 Weeks | McLean, VA | $1,950 (includes all materials)
Class Dates:
February 6 – May 24, 2025
No class April 12–17 for Spring Break
Choose Your Section:
Thursdays, 4:30-6:30 pm
Saturdays, 3:30-5:30 pm
Class Size:
6 students max
Includes:
Weekly instruction, digital TJ practice tests, and all course materials.
For Rising & Current 8th Graders
This is our signature eight-week intensive — a full prep course built for the real thing.
Students also complete timed practice tests through our online platform, so they’re not just learning — they’re doing. Often. And under real conditions.
Each session below features a similar curriculum. Aside from a couple official previously used TJ prompts, the practice tests will vary.
Each class splits into two focused sessions:
1.5 hours on the Student Portrait Sheet — writing with voice, structure, and intention
1.5 hours on the Problem-Solving Essay — clear thinking, real-time problem solving, and strong written explanation
Summer TJ Prep 2025
8 Weeks | McLean, VA | $1,795 (includes all materials)
Class Dates:
June 21 - August 10th
Choose Your Section:
Saturdays, 2:30-5:30 pm
Sundays, 2:30-5:30 pm
Class Size:
6 students max
Includes:
Weekly instruction, digital SAT practice tests, and all course materials
Fall TJ Prep 2025
8 Weeks | McLean, VA | $1,795 (includes all materials)
Class Dates:
September 12 – November 2nd, 2025
Choose Your Section:
Fridays, 4-7 pm
Saturdays, 2:30-5:30 pm
Sundays, 2:30-5:30 pm
Class Size:
6 students max
Includes:
Weekly instruction, digital SAT practice tests, and all course materials
Winter TJ Prep 2025
8 Weeks | McLean, VA | $1,795 (includes all materials)
Class Dates:
November 21, 2025 – February 1, 2026
No class November 26-30 and December 20-January 2
Choose Your Section:
Fridays, 4-7 pm
Saturdays, 2:30-5:30 pm
Sundays, 2:30-5:30 pm
Class Size:
6 students max
Includes:
Weekly instruction, digital SAT practice tests, and all course materials
Applying to TJ as a 10th Grader?
We’ve Got You.
Yes, it’s possible — and no, there’s no test this time around. Read more about our TJ Sophomore Admissions Process.
Frequently Asked Questions
When Should We Start Preparing?
That depends on your student. Some begin early — in elementary school — while others start in 8th grade. Our TJ-specific group classes officially begin in 7th grade and run all the way up to test day.
Before then, we recommend private 1:1 tutoring to target key academic skills and encourage deeper intellectual exploration. Whether it’s building writing confidence or digging into math competition problems, we meet students where they are — and help them grow from there.
What’s Your Refund Policy?
Once the class begins, we don’t offer refunds — so we recommend checking in with your student beforehand to make sure they’re excited to participate. Our best classes are filled with students who are motivated and ready to work hard (yes, there’s homework!).
That said, if plans change before the course begins, we offer:
100% refund minus a $100 registration fee if canceled 3+ weeks in advance
50% refund minus the registration fee if canceled 2 weeks in advance
No refund if canceled within 1 week of the start date
Can You Guarantee Admission to TJ?
We wish we could — but no. There are too many factors outside anyone’s control (school quotas, holistic review, etc.). What we can promise: your student will become a sharper thinker, a stronger writer, and more confident walking into the exam.
Our goal? Students walking out of test day saying, I nailed it.
What’s the Difference Between Summer, Fall, and Winter Courses?
Honestly? Not much. Each course includes a couple of official practice prompts used across all sessions. The main difference lies in the other practice prompts.
At the end of each course, families receive a detailed progress report — with honest recommendations about next steps, whether that’s another group class, private 1:1 tutoring, or just some targeted practice on their own.
What If My Student Misses a Class?
We don’t offer makeups for group classes, but we recommend students still complete the homework ahead of their missed class so they can receive any feedback. Students can stay on track by reviewing all materials from the missed class and completing the assigned homework for the following class.