Is it expected of a student pilot on his private pilot checkride to
intercept a VOR radial and fly towards the station?

Well, I had to -- but that was nine years ago now.

Knowing the FAA, you'll still be required to do that long after the last VOR
approach has been deactivated.
--
Jay Honeck
Iowa City, IA
Pathfinder N56993
www.AlexisParkInn.com
"Your Aviation Destination"