New Jersey student achieves highest SAT score ever, earns Presidential Scholar nod

Sahli Negassi, a 17-year-old student from West Orange High School in New Jersey, has accomplished an extraordinary achievement: a perfect SAT score.

This accomplishment places him among a rare group of fewer than 1,000 students across the United States who reach this milestone each year.

Throughout his time at West Orange High, Negassi managed to balance his academic responsibilities with leadership roles in two clubs and active participation in two sports. His path to a perfect SAT score began with a near-perfect 1590, but after reflecting on his performance, he retook the test and achieved a flawless 1600.

“I walked into class and thought, ‘I can do better,’” Negassi said. Despite already having an impressive score, he decided to challenge himself further and succeeded. His drive and determination earned him a place as a candidate for the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, a prestigious recognition for the nation's most outstanding high school seniors.

The SAT is a standardised test assessing college readiness in reading, writing, and math. and the average SAT score in the United States is 1050, according to the College Board, with many students taking the test multiple times to improve their scores. Negassi’s achievement, however, is remarkable, especially considering that he achieved a 1600 on his second attempt, relying on self-study through free online resources.

“I didn’t have a tutor; it was just me and whatever website I could find,” he explained. His dedication to studying was evident, as he often found time to review SAT materials between his track races. Negassi emphasized that his success on the SAT was not about innate intelligence, but about recognizing patterns, managing time effectively, and consistent practice.

Oscar Guerrero, the Principal of West Orange High School, expressed admiration for Negassi’s ability to excel in so many areas. “His SAT achievement is impressive, but what stands out even more is his ability to thrive across various activities,” Guerrero said.

A native of New York City, Negassi attributes much of his success to his father, who nurtured his love for learning early on by teaching him to read before he entered school. The unwavering support and sacrifices made by his parents have been instrumental in his achievements.

During his time at West Orange High, Negassi joined the math team, eventually becoming president, while also leading the cross-country team as captain, where he set a new 5K record. He is also a member of the school’s string ensemble, varsity chess team, and serves as president of the National Honor Society.

“Sahli’s achievements serve as an inspiration for our students and demonstrate what can be accomplished through perseverance and dedication,” said Superintendent Hayden Moore in a statement.

As the college application season approaches, Negassi hopes to be admitted to Harvard University, his top choice, where he plans to study law. Despite his extraordinary achievements, Negassi remains humble and credits his success to the support of his family, teachers, and friends.

“I don’t consider myself a prodigy or anything special,” he said. “This accomplishment is a collective achievement. When I think of my score, I think of my family and the people who helped me along the way.”