BEIJING — China's education authority on Dec 24 demanded stricter epidemic control measures for the upcoming postgraduate admissions exam that will begin on Dec 26 across the country.

Examinees from high- or medium-risk areas and those taking exams in isolated rooms must wear masks throughout the exam. For other test-takers, it will not be mandatory to wear masks during the exam, according to the Ministry of Education.

The ministry highlighted the importance of disinfection of examination sites and test papers, and asked test centers to guide the examinees to avoid crowding.

About 3.77 million Chinese have signed up for the 2021 national exam for postgraduate enrollment scheduled from Dec 26 to 28.