ADVANCE accepts student’s aged 12-17 who are entering grades 8 through 12. The eligibility criteria for all courses are based primarily on SAT, PSAT, ACT, or PLAN scores. Score requirements vary by course; please consult the Course Offerings section to determine the criteria for the classes in which you are interested. The cutoff scores given as admissions criteria are for SAT or ACT scores achieved during the student’s seventh grade year (left side of chart) or scores on the SAT/PSAT or ACT/PLAN when the student is older (right side of chart). If an interested student did not participate in a talent search, take the ACT or SAT on his/her own, or did not meet or surpass the score cutoffs, the SAT, PSAT, ACT, or PLAN results from a later year (i.e. as a ninth or tenth grader) may be used.

NOTE: An individual who achieves the cutoff scores while in grade seven does not have to retake the SAT or ACT.

Alternate Admissions Policy

If the student has never taken an ACT, PLAN, SAT, or PSAT, or the student’s scores did not meet or surpass the score cutoffs, the student may apply through Alternate Admissions. Students wishing to be admitted under the Alternate Admissions policy must include the following with their application:

1.    A letter of recommendation from an honors or G/T teacher who knows the student well.

2.    Two examples of outstanding schoolwork. The work may be the written portion of a science fair project, term paper, a letter from a school sponsor stating why a student was chosen to compete in an academic rally, quiz bowl, debate team, or another project that demonstrates the candidate’s exceptional ability. If the student is musical, a letter from his/her music teacher may be used as well.

3.    A copy of the student’s most recent report card.

NOTE: Omission of any one or more of the above will halt the consideration of your application until all documents are received by the ADVANCE Office.