Do You Need a Colour Vision Test for Polytechnic Admissions?

If you're applying to a polytechnic course, you might have noticed that some programs require a colour vision test as part of their admission criteria. Fields like engineering, aviation, biomedical science and design often require normal colour vision for safety and accuracy in tasks. But what does a colour vision test involve, and how do you know if you have a colour vision deficiency? Let’s break it down.

Understanding Colour Vision Deficiency

Colour vision deficiency, often called colour blindness, affects how you perceive certain colours. The most common type is red-green deficiency, where people have difficulty distinguishing between shades of red and green. Less commonly, some individuals have trouble with blue and yellow hues (blue-yellow deficiency). Lastly, there is also total-colour blindness (monochromacy) which is rare.

Since colour perception is essential in various fields—such as distinguishing electrical wires in engineering or interpreting colour-coded charts in biomedical science—certain schools require applicants to pass a colour vision test before enrolling.

Common Signs of Colour Vision Deficiency

Many people with colour vision deficiency may not realize they have it until they take a test. Here are some common signs:

• Difficulty distinguishing between certain colours (e.g., red and green, blue and yellow).
• Colours appear dull or washed out compared to what others describe.
• Trouble identifying coloured wires, charts, or signs in low lighting.
• Frequent mistakes in colour-related tasks, such as choosing matching clothing.
•  Reliance on brightness or position instead of colour to differentiate objects.

If you notice any of these signs, a colour vision test can help determine if you have a deficiency.

Family History and Colour Vision Deficiency

Colour vision deficiency is often inherited and passed down through families. It is usually linked to the X chromosome, which means it is more common in males than females. If you have family members with colour vision issues, there is a higher chance that you might have it too.

While rare, some colour vision deficiencies can also occur due to eye diseases, aging, or certain medications. If you have a family history of colour vision deficiency, getting tested early is a good idea.

The Ishihara Test: The Most Common Colour Vision Screening

The Ishihara Test is the standard method for detecting red-green colour vision deficiency. If you need a colour vision test for your polytechnic application, this is the one you’ll likely take.

🔵 How It Works:

• The test consists of plates filled with coloured dots, forming a number or shape in the centre.
• If you can see the number clearly, you likely have normal colour vision.
• If the number is unclear or invisible, it may indicate a colour vision deficiency.
• The test is quick and non-invasive, taking only several minutes.

✅ Why It’s Used for School Applications

• Simple and effective in screening for red-green colour blindness.
• Helps determine if applicants meet the colour vision requirements for their chosen course.

The Farnsworth D-15 Test: A More Detailed Assessment

Unlike the Ishihara test, the Farnsworth D-15 Test is not usually required for school applications, but it provides more details about the classification of the colour vision deficiency (i.e red-green and blue-yellow deficiency).

🔵 How It Works:

• You’ll be given 15 coloured caps and asked to arrange them in order of similar shades.
• People with normal colour vision will arrange them correctly, while those with colour vision deficiency may place them in a different sequence.
  

✅ Who Might Need It?

• Those who want to understand their colour vision ability in more detail.
• Individuals applying for careers where precise colour differentiation is required (beyond school admissions).

Polytechnic Courses That Require a Colour Vision Test

If you're applying for any of the following courses, you may need to take a colour vision test, depending on your school requirements: 

• Aeronautical Engineering
• Biomedical Science
• Electrical & Electronic Engineering
• Aerospace Electronics
• Chemical Engineering
• Food Science & Technology
• Applied Chemistry
  
• Marine Engineering
  
• Pharmaceutical Science
• Immersive Media
• Media Post-Production
• Interior Design

What to Do If You Have Colour Vision Deficiency?

If you suspect you have a colour vision deficiency, getting tested early is important. Some courses may allow special arrangements or alternative career paths, while others might have strict requirements.

💡 Get Tested Before You Apply!
If your polytechnic course requires a colour vision test, don’t wait until the last minute. Visit us for a quick Ishihara Colour Vision Test and ensure you meet the admission criteria hassle-free.

Click here to book an appointment at our stores in Tampines or Orchard!

1) Raylite Optical Tampines

Address: 201-D Tampines Street 21 #01-1133

Singapore 524201

Nearest MRT: Tampines East MRT (DTL)

2) Raylite Optical Orchard

Address: Taste Orchard (Former OG Orchard Point)

160 Orchard Road #03-02 

Singapore 238842

Nearest MRT: Somerset MRT (NSL)