The Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport has urged candidates to strictly follow the rules for the upcoming high school diploma exam (Baccalaureate), encouraging them to prepare with confidence and courage.

The ministry reminded candidates that bringing electronic devices into exam centres is strictly prohibited and any violation of regulations or the disciplinary code will result in automatic disqualification.

On October 7, education minister Hang Chuon Naron called on candidates to ensure they get enough rest, eat nutritious food and maintain good hygiene.

"All candidates should get enough sleep, eat healthy meals, drink clean water and particularly have a proper breakfast, so they can feel confident, calm and focused during the exam," he said in a video posted on the ministry’s social media channels.

He also advised candidates to bring essential items like hats, umbrellas and raincoats for their journey to exam centres and to travel carefully.

This year’s Baccalaureate exam will be held from October 8-9, with 137,040 candidates participating. Of these, 39,358 are in the science stream and 97,682 in the social sciences stream. The exams will take place at 230 centres nationwide, comprising 5,533 individual testing rooms.

The evaluation process will take place from October 11-17, with results announced on October 30 for Phnom Penh and Kandal province, and on October 31 for the rest of the country.

Chhort Bunthang, a cultural relations, tourism and education research officer at the Royal Academy of Cambodia, noted that candidates have been preparing for the Baccalaureate since Grade 10.

However, with the exam approaching, he encouraged students to briefly review their formulas and summaries and ensure they get sufficient rest to have enough energy for the exam.

He urged parents, siblings and friends to offer moral support to candidates during this crucial time.

“For the candidates, the exam day is a decisive moment after years of studying. They must put in their best effort without relying on luck, superstitions or assuming their lineage will guarantee success. They should focus on carefully reading the exam questions and asking invigilators for clarification if needed,” he advised.

Bunthang also suggested that candidates manage their time well, first answering the questions they feel confident about, especially those that will earn them points. He encouraged them to attempt all questions and, if they finish early, to review their answers for mistakes in spelling, grammar or symbols.

"We must remain hopeful until the official results are announced. If you find the exam difficult, remember it’s likely the same for others, so just do your best within the given time,” he said.

He also reminded candidates not to forget essential details on their exam papers, such as their seat number, exam room number and personal information.