SEOUL, - Approximately 504,588 students across South Korea are set to participate in the highly anticipated College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT) today, marking the country's most significant annual academic event. The nine-hour, five-session examination, which profoundly influences university admissions and future career paths, is being conducted at 1,279 test sites nationwide.
According to Yonhap News Agency, mask-wearing, previously mandatory for all CSAT participants, is now optional, except for those with confirmed or suspected coronavirus symptoms, who are strongly advised to wear masks to prevent the spread of infection. Additionally, candidates with COVID-19 are recommended to use separate rooms during the lunch break to minimize the risk of transmission.
For the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020, the CSAT administration is allowing students with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 symptoms to take the exam in the same room as other candidates. In contrast, during the last three years, those with COVID-19 symptoms were isolated in separate rooms.
The CSAT, traditionally held on the third Thursday of November, plays a crucial role in determining students' university admissions and career trajectories, making it a high-stakes event for both students and parents. To facilitate a conducive testing environment, especially during the critical English listening evaluation session, stringent measures are being implemented. Aircraft takeoffs and landings will be prohibited for 35 minutes, from 1:05 p.m. to 1:40 p.m., to ensure a noise-free environment. Additionally, all aircraft in flight, except in emergency situations, are required to maintain an altitude of at least 3 kilometers during this period. Consequently, the schedules of 94 flights have been adjusted to comply with these regulations, as stated by the transportation ministry.
To assist students in reaching their examination centers on time, the Seoul subway system has extended its morning rush hour services from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m., an expansion from the usual 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. schedule. Enhanced bus services are also in place. Police cars and regional government officials are on standby to provide assistance to students who are running late. Furthermore, government institutions and ward offices in Seoul have delayed their opening times to 10 a.m. to reduce traffic congestion, aiding in smoother student commutes.
In a related adjustment, the operating hours of South Korea's stock exchange and foreign exchange market are also delayed by an hour, commencing at 10 a.m., to accommodate the CSAT schedule.