Application

Apply to THCTT 

To apply, please follow the application process, and give us a call if you have any questions. We have a limited application window, so we encourage families to start exploring our programs early and be ready for our next window. (For information related to the programs we offer at THCTT, please hover over the “Programs” tab at the top of this page and proceed to the appropriate program.)

Application Window

New students interested in attending THCTT need to complete an application for the upcoming school year. Only current sophomores (rising juniors) and current juniors (rising seniors) may apply. Our application is active each year from October 15, 2025, through January 15, 2026. 

Completing the Application

How to Access the Online Specialty Program Application Form

 To complete this process via a browser on a computer, please follow these steps:

1. Log into the PowerSchool Student Portal. 
2. Click on Forms on the left side menu.
3. Under the General Forms tab, click on the form you wish to complete.

Click the link below for step by step directions, with screenshot photos, for accessing the THCTT application either through a browser on the computer or through a phone/tablet:

The Hanover Center for Trade and Technology

Asking for Recommendations

Visit your school counselor to receive the teacher/business representative recommendation request form.

Each student applying to enter the applicant pool for The Hanover Center for Trades & Technology must have one teacher or business representative complete the online recommendation form. Please note that if you choose to have a business representative complete the recommendation form, it must be a non-family member.

After having a parent review your recommendation request, take the request sheet to the person who is completing your recommendation. (Request sheets are available from your school counselor.)

When you ask for a recommendation, remember you’re asking them to take extra time on your behalf.

• Ask in advance (don’t wait until the last minute).
• Be respectful - say please, thank you, and let them know why you value their support.
• Be considerate - give them the details they need (deadlines, where to send it, any forms).
• Show gratitude - a simple thank-you note or email goes a long way.
  

Application Process 

Our application system closes on January 15, 2026. Applications are ranked by a composite score with the top-scoring division applicants offered admission based on available seats in each program.

The composite score breakdown is as follows:

• GPA - 20%
• Teacher or Business Representative* Recommendation - 20%
• Statement of Interest - 20%
• Attendance - 20%
• Discipline - 20%

*Non-family member

We release acceptance information to the counselors at each high school within our system by February 1, 2026.

What do I need to know as a private or homeschooled student?

Private and homeschooled students may pick up an application at their zoned high school. Private and homeschooled students will be asked to verify their residency. Private and homeschooled transcripts will be evaluated based on Hanover County Public Schools course offerings.

Preference for admission to Hanover County Public Schools’ secondary specialty programs (Health Sciences Specialty Center, Advance College Academy, and The Hanover Center for Trades and Technology), as well as applications to Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School and CodeRVA, will be given to students enrolled in Hanover County Public Schools at the time the application for the program closes. Private school and home-schooled students may be considered for admission to these programs if available spots remain. These students must provide proof of residency.