History was made at Pesega College on Saturday, January 24, as the U.S. University/College Admissions exam, the SAT, was administered in Samoa for the first time, according to a statement issued by the US Embassy in Samoa. 

”Sixteen students from several schools around Samoa sat the four-hour test, which assesses students’ readiness for University.  The SAT exam provides a path to opportunities, financial support, and scholarships, and fulfills one of the major requirements in the U.S. University application process.”

The statement notes that the U.S. Embassy Apia thanked Pesega for their cooperation in hosting the exam, and is hopeful that the SAT will be institutionalized and offered annually to Samoan students.

Chargé d’Affaires Peter Ganser said prior to this offering, the nearest place to take the SAT exam was in American Samoa. Ganser stated that “we have removed this logistical hurdle by offering the SAT here in Samoa. I’d like to thank Pesega and its administration for hosting the exam and I look forward to providing all Samoan students desirous of attending U.S. Universities the same opportunity in the future.”

The exam was preceded by monthly study sessions offered at the U.S. Embassy to Samoan students wishing to sit the exam.  Information about study sessions and the next opportunity to sit for the SAT will be announced via traditional and U.S. Embassy social media outlets.

SAT is a globally recognized college admission test that lets you show colleges what you know and how well you can apply that knowledge. It tests your knowledge of reading, writing and math — subjects that are taught every day in high school classrooms.