Do You Need a Colour Vision Test for Polytechnic Admissions?

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/or 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.

Ishihara Colour Vision Test Raylite Optical

🔵 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 A 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 store in Tampines!

Raylite Optical Tampines
Address: 201-D Tampines Street 21 #01-1133
Singapore 524201
Nearest MRT: Tampines East MRT (DTL)

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