Duc Thanh, an 11th-grade student in the Math 1 specialized class at Hanoi University of Education High School for the Gifted, received his SAT results on 27/3. The SAT is a standardized test widely used for university admissions in the United States and European countries. According to the College Board, the organizing body, a score of 1520 places a test-taker in the top 1% globally.

"I was very happy and surprised, because I expected to get one or two questions wrong," Thanh said.

This was Duc Thanh's second attempt at the exam. In 8/2025, he scored 1510 points (Reading and Writing 750/800, Math 760/800). According to the student, this time the exam was more challenging in the Reading and Writing section, featuring many difficult scientific and specialized vocabulary words. Consequently, Thanh prioritized easier questions before carefully reading the passages to infer the context of vocabulary and complete the inference questions.

Vu Duc Thanh. Photo: Hanoi University of Education High School for the Gifted Fanpage

Thanh shared that he began self-studying for the SAT last summer, primarily practicing with online resources, forums, and College Board practice tests, alongside vocabulary study.

Despite extensive study, he realized a gap in his preparation due to a lack of systematic review. He completed many practice tests but did not track his errors or identify his weaknesses. His use of disparate and outdated materials also meant he lacked the skills for handling actual exam scenarios.

After his first attempt, the student decided to change his study approach. In late 2025, he enrolled in a test preparation center to rebuild his methodology, focusing on error analysis and refining test-taking strategies.

For the Math section, Thanh's strong foundation from his specialized class meant he did not need much time. He focused on utilizing Desmos, the graphing calculator integrated into the SAT testing software, to solve difficult questions more quickly and easily. He also re-did practice tests multiple times to memorize problem types and avoid repeating mistakes.

In the Reading and Writing section, Duc Thanh's strengths were grammar and vocabulary. Thanh regularly enhanced his vocabulary using thematic flashcard sets common in the SAT, combined with studying national student excellent exam papers and test preparation books to broaden his word knowledge.

To manage score-related pressure, Thanh developed a calm approach during mock tests, avoiding early submission and consistently reviewing his answers. Additionally, he frequently played badminton, soccer, and maintained a balanced diet to stay healthy and relaxed.

Alongside his SAT preparation, Duc Thanh also self-studied for the IELTS and achieved an 8.5 in 1. He scored a perfect in two skills, Listening and Reading, while achieving 7.5 in Speaking and Writing. According to IELTS statistics, only about 1% of test-takers in Vietnam reach this level or higher.

The student attributes his results partly to his strong English foundation from a young age. He did not "cram," but integrated English into his daily life, actively communicating with native English teachers and reading books, listening to music, and watching movies in English. The two English books Thanh enjoys are "The Shy Boy" and "Pride and Prejudice."

In high school, Thanh intended to participate in the national student excellent exam. However, realizing his math ability was not in the top 10 school-wide, he decided to switch to English, both to challenge himself and to develop his existing passion.

Initially, he felt overwhelmed, having never participated in an English academic competition, and found it hard to keep up with the class pace. Thanks to the support from the English team teachers, Thanh gradually adapted and showed clear progress. As a result, he won a national second prize in the student excellent exam.

Teacher Ha Duy Hung, homeroom teacher of the 11th-grade Math 1 class, described Thanh as a well-rounded and serious student, well-liked by his peers.

"Despite being a member of the national team, Thanh diligently attended classes and studied all subjects. He is also a responsible academic vice-class monitor in school and class activities," the teacher said.

Currently, Duc Thanh plans to use his SAT and IELTS scores for university admissions, both domestically and internationally, aspiring to study Pharmacy.

Hai Yen