Vietnam has seen a significant increase in the number of students taking the SAT exam, with over 3,500 Vietnamese students registering for the test last year. This marks a 74% increase from the previous year and indicates a growing interest in studying abroad among Vietnamese students.
The SAT, which is a widely recognized standardized test used for university admissions in the U.S., Europe, and other parts of the world, consists of two main sections: Reading & Writing and Math, with a maximum score of 1600. The test is accepted by many universities globally, making it an important step for students looking to pursue higher education abroad.
IIG Vietnam, the authorized SAT administrator in the country, reported that the number of test-takers has been steadily increasing over the past few years. In 2019, there were over 1,700 Vietnamese students who took the SAT, with annual growth rates ranging from 6% to 17% leading up to 2022. Last year, the number of test-takers more than doubled to reach 3,510 students, showing a strong upward trend.
The College Board, which oversees the administration of the SAT worldwide, shared that approximately two million students take the test each year. The average score for last year was 1050 out of 1600, with scores above 1530 placing students in the top 1% globally. This highlights the competitiveness of the exam and the high standards required by universities.
The surge in Vietnamese students taking the SAT can be attributed to the increasing demand for studying abroad. Vietnam is considered one of the top 10 markets globally for student migration, with a significant number of Vietnamese students choosing to pursue their education overseas. Vietnamese students are among the top five groups of international students in countries like the U.S., Australia, and Canada, with the numbers continuing to grow.
Moreover, more universities in Vietnam are now accepting SAT scores for admissions. Over 20 universities in northern Vietnam have included SAT scores as part of their admissions criteria for this year’s intake. Institutions like Hanoi University of Science and Technology have set high benchmarks for SAT scores, with a requirement of 1450 out of 1600. Other universities generally ask for scores of 1100 or higher, indicating the importance of standardized testing in the admissions process.
Overall, the increase in Vietnamese SAT test-takers reflects a broader trend of students seeking international education opportunities and universities recognizing the value of standardized testing in the admissions process. As the demand for studying abroad continues to grow, Vietnamese students are taking proactive steps to enhance their chances of gaining admission to reputable universities around the world.
