UAE student scores perfect 1600 SAT on first attempt
A UAE-based student has achieved one of the rarest academic milestones in the world. On November 23, Saisha Sanaka, a grade 11 student at Brighton College Al Ain, earned a perfect 1600 on the SAT in her very first attempt — a score reached by only a tiny percentage of test-takers globally.
Her preparation began in late August 2025 when she explored SAT tutoring options and chose SATisfactory Education in Sharjah. Starting with a 1,350 diagnostic score — 670 in English and 680 in Math — she set a goal of scoring above 1,550, knowing it would be difficult without support.
She began structured training in early September, attending focused classes where tutors covered every topic in depth, resolved her learning gaps, and carefully analysed her mistakes so she could master both the methods and the concepts behind them.
As the test date neared, Saisha felt increasing anxiety. Coming from a British curriculum background, she had no previous exposure to American-style standardised tests. “The SAT was completely unknown to me,” she said. “I didn’t know what to expect and feared the unfamiliar parts.”
To overcome this, she used SATisfactory’s AI-powered Proctored Test Series. For three weeks before the exam, she took full-length mock tests every Saturday morning at 8am, simulating real test conditions. The AI tracked her errors and timing patterns, offering detailed feedback that helped her and her tutors pinpoint areas needing improvement. She also attended review sessions where each question was thoroughly discussed.
But just before the registration deadline, panic returned. After encountering misleading information online, she felt the SAT was too difficult and considered postponing her test to December. Her tutors stepped in, speaking with her and her parents to clarify misconceptions, rebuild her confidence, and help her trust her preparation.
Encouraged, she continued solving practice questions and revising mock tests. By the time she walked into the test centre, she was focused, prepared, and supported by her teachers and family.
In only two months, Saisha transformed her approach, improved her score by 250 points, and achieved a perfect 1600 — gaining not only an exceptional academic result but also a stronger sense of confidence and self-belief.
Her journey serves as an inspiration for students across the UAE, proving that with expert guidance, consistent practice, and determination, even the most ambitious academic goals can be reached.
