2 answers
Samina
Student
Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
1
Question
Updated
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Is giving SAT worth it in Pakistan when you are a student of ICS?
Hii, I am a student of ICS (11th) and I am planning to give SAT but there is not much awareness of its important in Pakistan. I have bought prep books but now I am confused about it.
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2 answers
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
1205
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hi Samina,
In a system where SAT is rarely discussed, your confusion makes sense in every way. You're not doing anything wrong by doubting this right now; in fact, it's the perfect moment to stop and make sure your efforts are in line with what you want to accomplish.
Whether you're in ICS, FSC, or any other track, a lot of local Pakistani universities do not accept the SAT. This is the most important thing to know up front. The SAT is important for applying to universities abroad, particularly those in the US and a few other nations that still use standardized tests.
Therefore, "Where do I want to apply after intermediate?" rather than "Is SAT important in Pakistan?" is the true decision point. SAT preparation is probably not the best use of your time at this moment if you want to attend a Pakistani university. It would be more beneficial to focus on improving your board scores, understanding the subjects, and any local entrance exams.
However, even as an ICS student, taking the SAT can be useful if you are genuinely thinking about studying overseas. Your academic skills and preparedness are more important to many foreign universities than your particular local stream. Because of their exposure to math and critical thinking, particularly in the math section, ICS students tend to do well on the SAT.
Nevertheless, it is not advisable to take the SAT "just in case." It takes time, money, and careful planning. It's only a wise investment if it's part of an overall plan that includes exploring universities, understanding application timelines, and getting ready for additional requirements like essays, English language exams, and financial planning.
This is a sensible course of action: first, decide whether you want to go to Pakistan or somewhere else. Second, make a short list of a few universities that you could actually apply to and find out if they accept or recommend SAT scores. Your preparation materials suddenly make sense once you read that the SAT is explicitly stated as relevant.
It's a strength that you're asking this early. Make choices based on guidance rather than pressure or fear. It is important to put in the effort if SAT is in line with your goals. If not, it's acceptable to let it go and concentrate on what will really improve you.
Best wishes!
In a system where SAT is rarely discussed, your confusion makes sense in every way. You're not doing anything wrong by doubting this right now; in fact, it's the perfect moment to stop and make sure your efforts are in line with what you want to accomplish.
Whether you're in ICS, FSC, or any other track, a lot of local Pakistani universities do not accept the SAT. This is the most important thing to know up front. The SAT is important for applying to universities abroad, particularly those in the US and a few other nations that still use standardized tests.
Therefore, "Where do I want to apply after intermediate?" rather than "Is SAT important in Pakistan?" is the true decision point. SAT preparation is probably not the best use of your time at this moment if you want to attend a Pakistani university. It would be more beneficial to focus on improving your board scores, understanding the subjects, and any local entrance exams.
However, even as an ICS student, taking the SAT can be useful if you are genuinely thinking about studying overseas. Your academic skills and preparedness are more important to many foreign universities than your particular local stream. Because of their exposure to math and critical thinking, particularly in the math section, ICS students tend to do well on the SAT.
Nevertheless, it is not advisable to take the SAT "just in case." It takes time, money, and careful planning. It's only a wise investment if it's part of an overall plan that includes exploring universities, understanding application timelines, and getting ready for additional requirements like essays, English language exams, and financial planning.
This is a sensible course of action: first, decide whether you want to go to Pakistan or somewhere else. Second, make a short list of a few universities that you could actually apply to and find out if they accept or recommend SAT scores. Your preparation materials suddenly make sense once you read that the SAT is explicitly stated as relevant.
It's a strength that you're asking this early. Make choices based on guidance rather than pressure or fear. It is important to put in the effort if SAT is in line with your goals. If not, it's acceptable to let it go and concentrate on what will really improve you.
Best wishes!
Joseph Aseo
Freeelance Technical Writer
38
Answers
San Ramon, California
Updated
Joseph’s Answer
For an 11th-grade ICS student, the SAT is useful for certain top schools but doesn't replace local entrance exams at most public engineering universities.
1. Where the SAT is Crucial
Some top private and semi-government universities in Pakistan prioritize the SAT for admissions. If you're aiming for these, focus on SAT preparation:
LUMS (Lahore): The SAT is required for nearly all undergraduate programs. For the Science & Engineering school, you need a high SAT score (usually 1350+) and the LUMS Scientific Aptitude Test.
IBA (Karachi): A strong SAT score (typically 1270–1450+) can exempt you from the IBA entry test and interview.
Habib University: The SAT is important for both admissions and scholarships.
2. Where the SAT is a Backup
For major public and engineering universities, the SAT plays a different role:
NUST: NUST has its own test (NET) but offers a SAT-based seat category. These seats are often more expensive and competitive. For local ICS students, the NET is usually more reliable and affordable.
FAST-NUCES: They accept the SAT with very high scores (e.g., 1200+). Most local students prefer the FAST entry test as it matches their ICS syllabus better.
GIKI: Accepts SAT-II for international applicants, but local students usually take the GIKI Admission Test.
3. The ICS Advantage vs. The SAT
Syllabus Difference: The SAT Math section focuses on logic and covers up to Algebra 2/Trig, while the ICS Math syllabus emphasizes Calculus and specialized topics. You'll need to study "SAT-style" logic separately.
English Preparation: ICS students often focus on technical subjects. The SAT requires strong English skills (Reading/Writing), which helps in university and future tech careers.
1. Where the SAT is Crucial
Some top private and semi-government universities in Pakistan prioritize the SAT for admissions. If you're aiming for these, focus on SAT preparation:
LUMS (Lahore): The SAT is required for nearly all undergraduate programs. For the Science & Engineering school, you need a high SAT score (usually 1350+) and the LUMS Scientific Aptitude Test.
IBA (Karachi): A strong SAT score (typically 1270–1450+) can exempt you from the IBA entry test and interview.
Habib University: The SAT is important for both admissions and scholarships.
2. Where the SAT is a Backup
For major public and engineering universities, the SAT plays a different role:
NUST: NUST has its own test (NET) but offers a SAT-based seat category. These seats are often more expensive and competitive. For local ICS students, the NET is usually more reliable and affordable.
FAST-NUCES: They accept the SAT with very high scores (e.g., 1200+). Most local students prefer the FAST entry test as it matches their ICS syllabus better.
GIKI: Accepts SAT-II for international applicants, but local students usually take the GIKI Admission Test.
3. The ICS Advantage vs. The SAT
Syllabus Difference: The SAT Math section focuses on logic and covers up to Algebra 2/Trig, while the ICS Math syllabus emphasizes Calculus and specialized topics. You'll need to study "SAT-style" logic separately.
English Preparation: ICS students often focus on technical subjects. The SAT requires strong English skills (Reading/Writing), which helps in university and future tech careers.