Academic Advising (program of studies)

Academic Advising and Course Selection

From February 1 - April 8, students, teachers, parents, and counselors will work together to choose courses that align with each student's personal interests, career goals, and post-secondary aspirations as well as reflect the high expectations we have for all Titans.

Selecting an academic program must be given considerable thought. The 2022-2023 Program of Studies is a comprehensive planning tool that provides a wealth of information about course offerings and graduation requirements that students and families can use to make informed decisions as they plan for success in high school and beyond.

ACPS is committed to ensuring that all Titans graduate with workplace skills, a sense of civic responsibility, and post-secondary plans that align with their interests and goals. The academic advising process is a time for self-reflection as students imagine their futures. Academic advising is a student-centered, collaborative process. Counselors, teachers, administrators, and families work together to support students as they make important decisions. We encourage students and families to ask questions.

As students choose courses, it is important to remind them to consider the following:

• Graduation requirements;
• Career interests and post-secondary goals;
• Personal well-being;
• Balancing exploration with commitment and consistency; and
• Extra-curricular and other commitments that demand students' time and energy.

Video Presentations by Grade Level

Rising 9th grade (English) Video Presentation

Rising 9th grade (Spanish) Video Presentation

Rising 10th grade Video Presentation

Rising 11th and 12th grade Video Presentation

Parents and guardians are welcome to contact their child’s school counselor with questions. We encourage active participation in this important transition process. We look forward to working as a team to select a strong course of study for your student.

National Merit Scholarship Information

Alexandria City High School (ACHS) has a process for notifying, publicizing and celebrating students who are recognized as semi-finalists for the National Merit Scholarship through the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) and other entry requirements. Once a student qualifies, they are then entered in the National Merit Scholarship Competition (NMSC) for scholarships and recognition. Below is helpful information from the NMSC website and ACHS specific details. 

About College Board

College Board reaches more than 7 million students a year, helping them navigate the path from high school to college and career. This not-for-profit membership organization was founded more than 120 years ago. It pioneered programs like the SAT® and AP® to expand opportunities for students and help them develop the skills they need. The BigFuture® program helps students plan for college, pay for college, and explore careers. Learn more at cb.org.

About National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC)

NMSC® is an independent, not-for-profit organization that operates without government assistance. NMSC conducts the National Merit® Scholarship Program, an annual academic competition for recognition and college scholarships. The PSAT/NMSQT® is the screening test for high school students who wish to participate in the National Merit Scholarship Program. If you have questions about any aspect of the National Merit Scholarship Program, including student participation requirements, the selection process, and awards offered, visit the NMSC webpage. 

The PSAT/NMSQT

The Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) is cosponsored by College Board and National Merit Scholarship Corporation. The test administration is offered once a year, in October, at Alexandria City HS. If you wish to report test administration irregularities, you must notify the Lead Testing Coordinator at molly.freitag@acps.k12.va.us.