The 2026 college scholastic ability test (CSAT) September mock evaluation for the mathematics section was analyzed to be at a similar level as last year's CSAT. The elective subjects 'probability and statistics' and 'geometry' were found to be more difficult compared to the mock evaluation in June, while 'calculus' was assessed to be somewhat easier.
Shim Joo-seok, a mathematics representative instructor from the EBS field teacher group, noted during the 'Mathematics Section Trend Analysis Briefing' held at the government Sejong office on the morning of the 3rd that, "There were many items that mid-level students who have firmly learned the concepts could approach easily, rather than those requiring problem-solving skills," adding that "Some items also included a distinguishing power emphasizing understanding, reasoning ability, and problem-solving ability."
Items expected to have relatively high distinguishing power include: ▲Mathematics I #22 (utilizing properties of logarithmic function graphs) ▲Mathematics II #21 (utilizing derivative and inequalities) ▲Probability and Statistics #28 (calculating combinations using repetitions) ▲Calculus #28 (derivative of composite functions) ▲Geometry #30 (maximum and minimum values of vector magnitudes).
The linkage rate of the EBS CSAT preparation materials and all items was 50%. Linked items include: ▲Mathematics I·II (common subjects) #5, 6, 9, 10, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 ▲Probability and Statistics (elective subject) #26, 29, 30 ▲Calculus (elective subject) #25, 26, 27 ▲Geometry (elective subject) #27, 28, 29. Instructor Shim explained that, "In the 'CSAT Special Lecture,' there were 6 items for probability and statistics, 7 items each for calculus and geometry, and in 'CSAT Completion,' there were 9 items for probability and statistics, and 8 items each for calculus and geometry.
Instructor Shim advised that, "By analyzing last year's CSAT, the June mock evaluation, and the September mock test materials, many items that are continuously being asked in a similar manner can be seen," adding that "If you identify which part you are struggling with among those items and prepare and practice in relation to the remaining time, you will be able to take the CSAT well."
Meanwhile, Jongno Academy stated that, "The common subjects for mathematics are more difficult this year than the June mock evaluation, but somewhat easier than last year's CSAT," and added, "Calculus was slightly easier compared to the June mock evaluation and CSAT, while probability and statistics were presented similarly." It assessed that "Geometry was more difficult than the June mock evaluation and presented similarly to the CSAT."