Despite the lifting of the mask mandate earlier this month, facial coverings will remain mandatory for all candidates. They will also need to check their body temperature and sign a health declaration form before entering the exam hall.

Unlike last year when it was mandatory for all to undergo a rapid antigen test, only those who show signs of having a fever will be required to do so.

In such cases, those who earlier tested negative should take a photo of their results for the record, because they may be asked to show them at the venue.

Authorities said such arrangements took into account how exam results would have a significant impact on the prospects of youngsters, and the measures had been adopted after discussions with schools.

But, coming after the scrapping of most Covid curbs, the arrangements may appear too cautious.

All students sitting Hong Kong’s university entrance exams must wear masks

This is especially so when schools have largely returned to normal and follows a recent decision to lift the rapid test requirement for those visiting public hospitals and care homes.

Concern has been raised as to whether the mask mandate and heath declaration will trouble candidates. While youngsters arguably became used to such measures when face-to-face classes resumed, reinstating them now as part of exam arrangements is quite a different matter.

Authorities have decided that those who test positive on the day will have to go to a designated centre in Kowloon to sit their exams.

Even though this may be an improvement on last year when infected candidates were sent to the quarantine centre at Penny’s Bay, fears of being subject to such an arrangement may only add to the pressure.

Pupils have been struggling to cope with disruptions to their studies over the past few years, and it is to be hoped that restrictions will no longer be required.