Long Test Day for Blind Students

Every November, South Korea holds its national college entrance exam, known as the Suneung. While most students complete this crucial test in about eight hours, blind students face a much longer challenge, often spending up to 13 hours in the exam room.

The extended duration for visually impaired students is due to several factors. They are given 1.7 times the standard testing time to accommodate their needs. Additionally, the braille versions of test papers are significantly bulkier, with each booklet being six to nine times thicker than the standard version.

Blind students like Han Dong-hyun and Oh Jeong-won describe the exam as a test of endurance. They must interpret complex information through touch alone, including graphs and mathematical problems. The lack of accessible study materials throughout the year adds to their challenge, as braille versions of key textbooks often arrive months later than the standard editions.

Despite these obstacles, the students approach the exam with determination. They view it not just as a test of knowledge, but as a demonstration of their perseverance and hard work over many years.