Arjun now hopes to improve his SAT English score and eventually create a free learning platform to support underprivileged children around the world, inspired by the help he received from Khan Academy
Twelve-year-old Arjun Abhinav Patwardhan from Abu Dhabi has earned international recognition after scoring 750 out of 800 in the SAT Maths exam, an achievement that won him the prestigious Grand Honors Award from the Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth (CTY).
Arjun, an Australian student of Indian origin studying at Global Indian International School (GIIS) in Abu Dhabi, took the SAT exam on May 2. The test is usually written by students aged 16 and above, making his performance especially remarkable at just 12 years old. His overall SAT score was 1290.
The Johns Hopkins CTY programme identifies exceptionally talented students through advanced-level testing. Achieving a score of 750 or higher in SAT Maths at Arjun’s age is considered rare worldwide.
What makes the achievement even more impressive is that Arjun prepared without private tutors or coaching classes. Instead, he relied on practice tests from the College Board website and free lessons from Khan Academy. He completed 10 practice exams to improve his score steadily
Teachers at GIIS say Arjun’s talent in mathematics became clear from an early age. His maths teacher, Dinsana, noticed his ability in Grade 6 when he was confidently solving problems meant for older students.
Outside academics, Arjun enjoys badminton, table tennis, acting and mimicry. He also earned a black belt in karate at the age of 11.
