The anticipated grade cutoffs reveal varying performance levels among high school students ahead of the November exam
Category: Education
On October 20, 2026, high school students across South Korea participated in the National Academic Assessment, known as the 10th mock exam, marking a key moment for those preparing for the College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT) scheduled for November 19. This assessment, particularly important for third-year students, serves as the last nationwide evaluation before the CSAT, allowing students to gauge their readiness.
The event, organized by the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education for third-year students and the Gyeonggi Provincial Office of Education for first- and second-year students, saw participation from approximately 372,000 students across 1,855 high schools nationwide. As students eagerly awaited the results, attention was drawn to the expected grade cutoffs, which provide insights into academic performance and potential areas for improvement.
According to preliminary scoring data released on October 20, the expected cutoff scores for the Korean language section are 94 points for the writing component and 91 points for language and media. In mathematics, the anticipated cutoffs are 89 points for probability and statistics, 84 points for calculus, and 85 points for geometry. These scores are indicative of the performance levels required to achieve the highest grades.
In terms of standardized scores, both Korean language and mathematics are projected to have a cutoff of 130 points. The second-grade cutoff for Korean is expected at 124 points, with mathematics slightly higher at 126 points. For third-grade cutoffs, Korean is projected at 117 points and mathematics at 120 points. Notably, the English and Korean history sections are graded on an absolute scale, requiring 90 points or above for English and 40 points or above for Korean history to achieve the highest grade.
When comparing this year’s results with last year's, notable differences emerge. The cutoff score for Korean language has decreased significantly; last year, the first-grade cutoff was 91 points, whereas this year it stands at 83 points. Similarly, the mathematics cutoff has also seen a decline from 88 points to 80 points for the first grade. This downward trend raises questions about the examination's difficulty and the changing academic standards.
For first-year students, the cutoff scores were released simultaneously. The Korean language first-grade cutoff is set at 83 points, with second and third-grade cutoffs at 73 and 64 points, respectively. In mathematics, the first-grade cutoff is 80 points, followed by 69 for the second grade and 56 for the third grade. These scores indicate a shift in academic performance expectations among younger students as well.
This assessment offers a unique opportunity for students to evaluate their academic strengths and weaknesses ahead of the CSAT. With the results from the October mock exam, students can identify areas requiring additional focus and adjust their study strategies accordingly. The results will be available online starting November 5, providing students with a comprehensive overview of their performance.
Experts advise students to utilize these results not just for immediate grading but also as a tool for long-term academic planning. As one educational consultant noted, "The October mock exam is not just a test; it's a chance for students to refine their study habits and solidify their knowledge base before the CSAT." This perspective emphasizes the importance of viewing the assessment as a stepping stone rather than a final judgment.
The October mock exam marks a decisive moment for students gearing up for the CSAT. It is a chance to assess their readiness and make necessary adjustments to their study plans. As the results are analyzed, students will have the opportunity to strategize effectively, ensuring they are well-prepared for the challenges ahead. With the CSAT less than a month away, the stakes are high, and the insights gained from this assessment could prove invaluable.
The results of the October assessment, including the final grade cutoffs, will be officially confirmed on November 5, just two weeks before the CSAT. This timeline adds urgency to the preparations of students as they strive to achieve their academic goals.