Are the prompts culturally neutral, or should Saudi students prepare for U.S.-centric topics?

The good news is that prompts are designed to be fair for everyone, no matter where they live. The bad news? They can still feel a little “American” in tone. For example, your child might be asked to write about leadership, community service, or personal challenges—concepts that are universal, but often framed in ways familiar to U.S. schools.

What does this mean for Saudi students? It means your child should practice writing responses that blend personal experiences with big-picture thinking. If the prompt mentions a school club or volunteering, they can easily draw parallels to their own context—sports teams, family responsibilities, or cultural traditions all count.

The goal is not to adopt an American persona but to show critical thinking, clear writing, and self-awareness. Encourage your child to brainstorm a variety of stories they can adapt for different prompts, whether about teamwork, overcoming obstacles, or ethical decisions.

So while prompts aren’t a pop quiz on U.S. history, they do expect a student to express ideas in a style American schools value: logical, reflective, and concise. Practice that approach, and your child will stand out—without losing their authentic voice.