The Institute of Business Administration (IBA), one of Pakistan’s most prestigious educational institutions, has made a major change to its admission policy for 2025 and beyond. Students aspiring to secure admission through their SAT scores alone need to be cautious. The new policy explicitly states:

“Direct admission or qualification for an interview based on SAT scores is not guaranteed. Only the top SAT scorers in the SAT merit list will be granted direct admission or called for an interview.”

This change means that while students can still choose to skip the IBA Aptitude Test if they have SAT scores, relying solely on those scores is now a gamble. There’s no minimum SAT score that guarantees exemption, and only the highest SAT achievers will make it to the next stages of admission.

What Does This Mean for Applicants?

For years, many students have relied on high SAT scores to bypass the IBA Aptitude Test. This latest update, however, sends a clear message: taking the IBA Aptitude Test is now the safer option.

If you decide not to sit for the aptitude test and rely solely on your SAT scores but fail to rank high on the SAT merit list, you’ll be placed in the “unsuccessful candidates” category. The SAT merit list will only be published alongside the results of the IBA Aptitude Test.

Why Is This Policy Change Important?

This decision by IBA has sent shockwaves through Pakistan’s student community, especially those who prefer international standard tests like the SAT over local admission tests. Here’s why it matters:

1. Increased Competition: With no guaranteed SAT score for exemptions, students must now perform exceptionally well to stand out on the SAT merit list.
2. Double Preparation Required: Students will now have to prepare for both the SAT and the IBA Aptitude Test, which increases the workload and demand for focused preparation.
3. Higher Stakes: If you don’t score among the top SAT applicants and have skipped the IBA Aptitude Test, you lose your chance for admission altogether.
   
   

What Should Students Do?

Given the uncertainties, if your SAT score is below 1350, taking the IBA Aptitude Test is strongly recommended. Here are some tips to stay ahead:

• Analyze Both Syllabuses: List down the differences in curriculum between IBA’s Admission Test and the SAT to make sure you don’t miss any topics/chapters.
• Understand the Syllabus: Familiarize yourself with the format and content of the IBA test. Focus on areas like quantitative analysis, verbal reasoning, and essay writing.
• Seek Expert Help: Consider enrolling in test prep courses to maximize your chances.
  
  

Chaajao Can Help You!

Worried about preparing for both tests? Chaajao offers comprehensive test prep solutions for both the SAT and IBA Aptitude Test. With our expert instructors and tailored study plans, you can confidently tackle this challenge.

Final Words:

This policy shift by IBA highlights the importance of well-rounded preparation for higher education. While the SAT remains a valid option, students must now adapt to this dual-test approach to ensure they don’t miss their chance to join the prestigious institution.

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