The SAT is a widely recognized standardized test for university admissions in the United States and other countries. In June 2025, Bao earned a perfect 800/800 in Math and 730 in Reading and Writing - an impressive feat for a student from a mountainous area with limited resources.

In December 2024, Bao had already drawn attention by scoring an overall IELTS 8.5, achieving the same high mark in Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. This came on his third attempt - after first scoring 7.5 in 11th grade - through steady improvement.

Growing up in Vu Quang, Ha Tinh, Bao lacked access to extra classes. He chose to self-study early, using online forums, study communities, and digital resources.

“From the start of high school, I knew that to get into a top university I had to prepare seriously, especially for IELTS and SAT,” Bao shared. “With clear goals, I created a detailed plan and followed it through each stage.”

Bao began taking the IELTS in early 11th grade. Disappointed by his first results, he persisted. He strengthened his speaking skills - once his weakest - by expanding vocabulary, mastering grammar, improving pronunciation, recording and reviewing his speech, and practicing online with peers. Instead of memorizing rigid templates, he aimed for natural, conversational responses that reflected his personality and views.

For writing, he focused on logical structure, precise vocabulary, and coherent arguments, often posting essays on forums for feedback. He maintained a steady routine of listening and reading daily to build reflexes and contextual understanding.

Discipline and determination in self-study

Thanks to his solid English foundation, Bao’s SAT preparation was relatively short. Strong reading comprehension skills helped him navigate academic materials and adapt to specialized vocabulary. “To score high on the SAT, you need not only knowledge but also critical thinking, reading comprehension, and quick problem-solving under time pressure,” Bao noted.

In Math, he trained for logical, flexible thinking under strict time limits. For Reading and Writing, he practiced with various academic texts - from classic literature to political essays and scientific papers - sharpening his ability to analyze structure, identify keywords, and discern the author’s intent.

Bao studied over four hours daily, increasing to eight hours on weekends or during holidays. He regularly assessed his strengths and weaknesses, adjusted his approach, and maintained a clear focus. “The most important thing is self-discipline, setting clear goals, and sticking to them,” he said.

Beyond these certificates, Bao was an outstanding student throughout high school, winning first prize in English at the provincial level in grades 10, 11, and 12.

His homeroom teacher, Thai Van Thanh, praised Bao as “driven, proactive in learning, and resourceful in using technology to overcome limited conditions,” adding that Bao’s success is the result of sustained effort and an inspiration to other students in mountainous regions.

Bao has applied to his dream program - International Business at the Foreign Trade University.

Dau Tinh