Phuong, a 12th-grade student at the Hanoi National University of Education High School for Gifted Students, received her results on 20/6. The SAT is a standardized test, consisting of math and evidence-based reading and writing sections, used by universities worldwide for admissions.
According to the College Board, the organization that owns the SAT, approximately two million students worldwide take the test annually. A score of 1530 or higher places a student in the top 1%.
Learning her score while studying with a friend at a cafe, Phuong said she was "shaking" with surprise, and her friend also screamed with joy.
"I couldn't believe it was true," Phuong said, explaining that she didn't have a specific goal but hoped for the highest possible score to apply to top universities.
Nguyen Trong Hieu, Phuong's SAT tutor, said many teachers considered the June test relatively difficult, with scores trending lower than the two previous tests. Phuong's perfect score demonstrates her abilities and thorough preparation. Achieving a perfect 800/800 in reading and writing four times consecutively is "very rare," he added.
"This score reflects her consistent and near-perfect accuracy in reading comprehension and language analysis," Hieu commented.
During tutoring sessions, Hieu observed Phuong's deep understanding, critical thinking skills, and strong reasoning. When practicing, she not only chose the correct answers but also clearly explained her reasoning.
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Dao Minh Phuong. Photo courtesy of the subject |
Dao Minh Phuong. Photo courtesy of the subject
Phuong began preparing for the SAT at the end of 11th grade, encouraged by a close friend. After researching the test, she realized the SAT was a "golden ticket" to Vietnam's top universities, motivating her studies.
Initially, Phuong felt discouraged by the unfamiliar format and concepts. She then focused on finding a suitable study method, prioritizing quality over quantity in practice tests. She carefully analyzed her mistakes, both logical errors and those due to carelessness.
She also focused on understanding the reasons behind her mistakes to avoid repetition, while reviewing weak areas and reinforcing fundamental knowledge. For vocabulary, she used any free time to look up unfamiliar words from practice tests.
In class, she concentrated on understanding the lessons and completing assignments. At home, she dedicated 3-4 hours daily to SAT preparation.
"I see the SAT as a game; the more knowledge I gain, the higher the level. Playing this game is both engaging and beneficial," she said.
Phuong's first SAT attempt last June resulted in a 1420/1600. Her scores gradually improved with subsequent attempts: 1480, 1500, 1540, 1570, and finally, the perfect score. She believes multiple attempts provided valuable experience and highlighted areas for improvement.
Regarding the early June test, Phuong noted the math section covered 11th and 12th-grade concepts, slightly more advanced than previous tests. She believes that with dedicated practice, students can achieve high scores.
"The math section wasn't excessively difficult; carefulness is key. Mistakes on easier questions result in greater point deductions, making it wasteful to answer difficult questions correctly while missing easy ones," she explained.
She found the reading and writing section emphasized logical comprehension and vocabulary, requiring precise and careful reasoning. Passages covered diverse academic topics: science, history, culture, sociology, and literature. Phuong's strength in reading comprehension stems from her logical and coherent thinking, preventing her from being misled by similar ideas.
Reflecting on her SAT journey, Phuong believes a high level of English proficiency isn't a prerequisite for a high score. She initially struggled with English but improved by reading books and newspapers, and listening to podcasts on topics of interest.
"Understanding logic and having a passion for English are sufficient for success on the SAT," she concluded.
Binh Minh
