Hanoi student scores perfect SAT after months of practice and self-study

Luong Minh Hieu Ngoc, a 12th grader specializing in Chemistry, achieved this result on her second attempt during the Oct. 19 exam.

According to the College Board, which administers the SAT, around two million students worldwide take the test annually, with only 7% scoring 1400 or above and scores of 1530 or higher placing students in the top 1%.

“When I received the results, I was so surprised that I trembled,” Ngoc said.

The SAT includes two sections: Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, each scored up to 800. Ngoc explained that the Math section covers middle school content such as trigonometry, arithmetic, and geometry, while the Reading and Writing sections feature modules on science, history, and literature.

Ngoc’s first attempt at the SAT two months prior yielded a score of 1490. During her recent exam, she felt uncertain about a few questions in the Reading and Writing section and did not expect a perfect score.

“To achieve this score, I think it takes not only ability but also a bit of luck. The result reflects my efforts and determination to reach my goal,” she said.

Ngoc began studying for the SAT in April, initially preparing on her own by following tips from study groups. She later enrolled in courses at a training center for more guidance. In addition to completing assignments from her teachers, she studied alone using Khan Academy, a free online platform.

She said candidates should focus on critical thinking and understanding concepts thoroughly. After practice exercises, she reviewed them to explore alternative answers and understand why her responses were correct or incorrect.

Recognizing that the SAT often includes new vocabulary, Ngoc made a habit of looking up, recording, and reviewing unfamiliar words. She stressed the importance of a solid grasp of grammar, a broad vocabulary, and strong English reading comprehension skills. For Math, she sought out recent practice tests to stay current with exam trends, starting with the Panda Math book for basic questions and progressing to simulated real tests to build her skills.

Nguyen Hong Hai, Ngoc’s homeroom teacher who has taught her since 8th grade, praised her study habits, noting that she is diligent, focused, and rarely distracted.

Ngoc has won first prize in the national competition for outstanding Chemistry students in both 11th and 12th grades and has participated in training for the International Chemistry Olympiad team. She also holds a 7.5 IELTS score.

“Ngoc is one of my exceptional students. She has a rare ability to learn independently. Whatever she learns, she masters,” said Hai.

Ngoc plans to use her SAT and IELTS scores to apply to universities in Vietnam and abroad, aiming to pursue a degree in Pharmaceutical Chemistry.