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2026 College & Career Fairs

PWCS college and career fairs provide students with direct access to colleges, employers, and resources that support informed academic and career planning.

2026 College & Career Fairs

PWCS college and career fairs provide students with direct access to colleges, employers, and resources that support informed academic and career planning.

  • Gainesville High School

    13150 University Blvd.
    Gainesville, VA 20155

    October 8, 2026
    6-8 p.m.

  • Forest Park High School

    15721 Forest Park Dr.
    Woodbridge, VA 22193

    October 14, 2026
    6-8 p.m.

How Registration and Scanning Works

PWCS College Fairs are hosted by the Virginia Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers and partner with StriveScan. Students are not required to register ahead of time, but may choose to register before or on the day of the event to easily share contact information with college representatives using a personalized QR code. There is no cost to register for the event. Students are strongly encouraged, but not required, to register.

  1. Students, parents, counselors, and professionals are encouraged to register using StriveScan.

  2. Complete the short registration form.

    High school students can optionally add their current GPA to their profile. You can view your unofficial transcript and GPA in StudentVUE.

  3. You will receive your barcode which allows you to easily and safely share contact information with colleges for free.

  4. Scan your barcode with colleges to receive more information.

    College representatives can instantly view the information that students add to their StriveScan profile.

Overview of How Registration & Scanning Works

Strive Scan video thumbnail

College & Career Fair 20-Minute Tiny Talks

  • Military College Pathways – Highlights the military pathways while in college to include ROTC, service academies, military colleges, and Corps of Cadets.
  • Financial Aid & Scholarships – Overview of paying for college with a focus on financial aid and scholarship searching.
  • Overview of the Common App – Review the Common Application sections and necessary steps.
  • Fine & Performing Arts Program Applications – Review the application process for Fine & Performing Arts programs at colleges and universities.

Before You Arrive to the College & Career Fair

Request a Language Interpreter if Needed

If a student or parent will need a language interpreter, including American Sign Language, please complete your request by September 20, 2026.

Interpreter Request Form

View the College & Career Fair Representative List

Preview a representative list of colleges, universities, vocational/technical schools, and military recruiters attending each college and career fair.

Gainesville High School – October 8, 2026

Forest Park High School – October 15, 2026

Student Guide for Sharing Information with Representatives at College Fairs

How to Share Information Quickly with College Reps

Before the Fair

  • StriveScan Account: Have your StriveScan account ready. Reps will scan your QR code to gather your contact information.

  • Naviance: Check Naviance for your college visit schedule at your high school, and view high school admission data in scattergrams under the college search.

  • Plan Your Booth Visits
    • Review the list of colleges in advance.
    • Identify your top five colleges you want to speak with.
During the Fair
  • Lead the Conversation
    • Introduce yourself clearly: Name, Grade, High School, Career or intended major
    • Make a good first impression: Smile, shake hands
  • Share Your Information
    • Use your StriveScan card to scan and share your information with college representatives.
  • Ask Meaningful Questions
    • Prepare thoughtful questions ahead of time.
    • Avoid asking questions that can be answered online (such as GPA or basic admission requirements).
    • Use this time to ask questions that help you understand fit, programs, and opportunities.
    • Sample Questions
      • What is the process to be considered for scholarships at your school?
      • What are the benefits of the honors college and do I apply?
      • Are there any master’s degree accelerated programs that include a four-year degree?
      • What kind of career support is offered outside of the classroom? Are internships available?
      • What is the most popular student organization on campus? Do you have a ____ club?
      • I want to pursue a major in _________, can you tell me more about the program and how it’s different from other schools?
      • What question do you wish students would ask during a college fair?
When Lines are Long
  • Quick Questions: Be prepared to ask one or two quick questions.
  • Handouts: Grab a handout at the table instead of waiting in line.
After the Fair
  • Complete the PWCS Feedback Survey: Share your experience with us by completing the PWCS Feedback Survey.
  • Follow Up: Send a follow-up email to the representative and thank them for the conversation.

For College Representatives Only

VACRAO members can log in to register at the member rate.

VACRAO non-members, please complete this registration form..

Your Feedback is Important to Us

To help us plan future events, please complete this survey if you attended one of the college fairs.

See highlights from past college and career fairs.