More than 93,000 grade 12 students, or just over 90 per cent, have passed their semester exams and will now move on to the national exam, according to Ros Salin, spokesman for the Ministry of Education.

In August, the students will face the last qualifier for their diploma, and the only factor considered for entry into the Kingdom’s colleges.

Last week, the number of students taking the test was thrown into question when the ministry announced re-examinations for all failed students.

The decision came as a response to 52 failing students at Hun Sen Taing Kork High School in Kampong Thom who protested allegedly unfair treatment. Among the high school’s 52 protesters, 29 managed to bump their score to a pass.

“I’m happy to pass, but I’m still trying hard to memorise lessons and practise more for the upcoming national exam because I know there will not be another chance,” said Chim Sophal, 18.