BEIJING — China’s Ministry of Education (MOE) has asked schools nationwide to adopt strict rules in enrolling students as the new academic year is approaching.

The ministry required local authorities to ensure that the exam-free access to nearby primary and secondary schools is universally available for school-age children.

High schools should strictly follow the admission procedures and policies, said the ministry, adding they are banned from vying for ace students in violation of regulations.

Universities were urged to strengthen regulation of independent enrollment of students with special talents.

Independent enrollment was added as an admission alternative a decade ago to allow some key universities to enroll students they choose fit. Tests of academic competence and interviews are usually required.

However, the rise of fraud cases in independent enrollment in recent years has tainted the practice’s reputation and caught the authorities’ attention.