Frequently Asked Questions

List of 13 items.

• What is Thomas Jefferson School?

  Thomas Jefferson School (TJ) is a small, independent, coeducational college preparatory boarding and day school in suburban St. Louis, Missouri, serving grades 7–12 with a rigorous academic curriculum and close faculty mentorship.

• Is Thomas Jefferson School a boarding school?

  Yes. TJ is both a boarding school and a day school. Boarding students live on campus in supervised residences and fully participate in academic and community life. Day students join all classes and activities while living with their families.

• What grades does TJ serve?

  Thomas Jefferson School enrolls students in grades 7 through 12, preparing young people academically and personally for selective colleges and universities.

• Where is Thomas Jefferson School located?

  TJ is located near St. Louis, Missouri, a centrally located U.S. city with major cultural institutions and transportation access. Its location makes travel accessible from within the U.S. and internationally.

• What makes TJ academically strong?

  TJ offers a rigorous liberal arts and sciences curriculum with small classes, discussion-based learning, and Advanced Placement courses. The school maintains a 6:1 student-teacher ratio and a high proportion of faculty with advanced degrees.

• How competitive is admission to TJ?

  Admission to Thomas Jefferson School is selective and holistic. The committee reviews academic records, recommendations, student work, interviews, and engagement outside the classroom. Applicants should demonstrate intellectual curiosity and readiness for a rigorous college preparatory environment.

• Does TJ offer financial aid?

  Yes. TJ offers need-based financial aid to eligible families, including international applicants. Financial aid decisions are based on family financial documentation and available institutional resources.

• Does TJ enroll international students?

  Yes. TJ welcomes international students from around the world who seek a U.S. boarding school education. International students participate fully in classes, residential life, and extracurricular activities while receiving academic support and college counseling.

• What are some of TJ’s rankings and recognitions?

  Thomas Jefferson School is consistently recognized for academic excellence and community diversity:

  • #1 Best Boarding High School in Missouri (Niche)
  • #2 Best College Prep Private High School in Missouri (Niche)
  • #2 Most Diverse Private High School in Missouri (Niche)
  • Top 3% Best High Schools for STEM nationally (Niche data)
  • Top 5% Best College Prep High Schools in America (Niche data)

  These rankings reflect TJ’s strengths in academics, community diversity, and college preparation.

• Where do TJ graduates go to college?

  TJ graduates matriculate to a wide range of selective colleges and universities in the United States and internationally, supported by personalized college counseling. The school’s high college matriculation rate underscores its success in preparing students for next steps.

• What is student life like at TJ?

  Student life at TJ blends rigorous coursework with community activities, shared meals, athletics, clubs, and cultural opportunities in nearby St. Louis. The residential program emphasizes responsibility, independence, and collaboration among students and faculty.

• How do I apply to Thomas Jefferson School?

  Families start by submitting an inquiry through the TJ website. Applicants complete the online application, submit school records and recommendations, and participate in an interview. International applicants follow additional steps for visas and residency documentation.

• What are important deadlines for admission?

  TJ typically operates a rolling application process, with priority review for applications submitted earlier in the year. Check the admissions section of the TJ website for the most current deadlines and requirements.