418 East Jefferson Street Charlottesville, VA 22902
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College Counseling
School Year
One semester with the Academic Dean and three years of College Counseling are a combined required four-year series of courses at Renaissance School. These classes meet once a week and are taught by our Head of School. Ultimately, the goals of the program are to increase student self-awareness, appreciation of strengths and weaknesses, goal-setting, thoughtful decision-making, perseverance and grit.
The personal attention students receive in the four-year College Counseling program at Renaissance School contributes to its overwhelming success. The majority of Renaissance School students are admitted to their first choice college. The class of 2025 averaged $275,000 per student in scholarships and gift money.
Parent Workshop
College Night for Parents is an evening set aside for parents of Renaissance School students. This free workshop is designed to introduce parents to Renaissance School’s College Counseling program, share the school’s approach and expectations, and support parent questions regarding the application process (FAFSA is not part of this workshop). College Night for Parents is open to all Renaissance School parents. Parents are encouraged to attend at least two years, either ninth or tenth grade and the student’s junior year.
Community Event
SATURDAY, JAN. 24, 2026 – Road to College is a free event for Charlottesville and Albemarle County families of rising 8th, 9th & 10th graders. This workshop is led by nationally-recognized College Counselor and Head of School Dr. Sara Johnson. Road to College explores key steps students and parents can take toward a successful transition to high school, including high school resources, as they prepare for applying to competitive colleges and universities. The Road to College event is free, advanced registration is recommended as resources will be provided to those who register in advance. It will be held at Renaissance School – 418 E Jefferson St, Charlottesville, 22902.
Summer Workshop for rising seniors
College Essay+ is a seven-day workshop perfectly timed for rising seniors planning to apply Early Action or Early Decision and supports all seniors applying Regular Decision. The workshop is structured around the Common Application, including the personal essay, supplemental materials, high school resume, and academic achievements and activities. Additionally, all students receive personalized college counseling guidance, including a lot of essay feedback. Registration for College Essay+ opens in January.