The Commonwealth Governor’s School program serves students in grades 9 – 12 from Caroline, King George, Spotsylvania, and Stafford County. CGS students apply to be in the program through their school district. Beginning in January of each year student applications are accepted by the participating school districts and a rigorous identification process ensues. CGS students are selected for the program based on achievement test scores, teacher recommendations, a timed writing assessment, service activities, a portfolio, and an interview.  Students in the CGS program are considered to be academically gifted and highly motivated.

CGS students are truly amazing adolescents. Instead of taking the path of least resistance, CGS students have decided to challenge themselves by being part of a very rigorous academic program. In addition, the average CGS student is highly involved in after school activities including SCA, band, VHSL sports, and numerous school organizations. The majority of CGS students are involved in at least one community service project during the year.

Student Selection

Students are selected to attend CGS in a competitive process that evaluates grades, academic ability and achievement, teacher recommendations, an interview ,and a portfolio presentation of self-selected interests. Applications are reviewed by independent selection committees from each participating division.