17-Year-Old From New Jersey Scores a Perfect SAT Score
Sahli Negassi, a 17-year-old from West Orange, New Jersey, has achieved a rare perfect 1600 on the SAT, placing him among the top less than 1% of test-takers nationwide.
Despite never attending preschool, Sahli’s early exposure to his siblings’ textbooks built a strong foundation. He largely self-prepared for the SAT using free resources like Khan Academy and YouTube, all while excelling in AP courses, leading multiple school organizations, and competing in cross-country and track.
Reflecting on his achievement, Sahli shared, “It still doesn’t feel real. But more than anything, I was relieved — I had finally proven to myself that it was possible.” His advice to students? “Be intentional. Know what you want for yourself, and throw your whole body at it.”
With Harvard in his sights and ambitions for a law career, Sahli is proving that determination, balance, and hard work lead to incredible success.
