HPB’s colour vision screening checks whether a student has difficulty distinguishing certain colours. It is conducted in Primary 5, before the Primary 6 national examination, according to HPB’s current guidance.
The screening uses the Ishihara test: children identify numbers within pictures made of coloured dots. HPB explains that younger children may not understand the test, which is why it is done in Primary 5.
Punggol parents should read the school’s screening communication and any follow-up instructions. If an appointment is needed, HPB says colour vision testing is available only on weekdays, so check the confirmed slot before arranging transport or time away from school.
In this guide
How can I explain the test to my child?
How do I request an appointment?
CHAPTER 1 OF 5
What is being checked?
The HPB colour vision screening guide describes difficulty telling certain colours apart. Read the screening notice for the purpose of the visit.
Avoid drawing conclusions from an online colour puzzle or a child’s choice of crayon. Ask the healthcare team about the actual screening result and any recommended next step.
CHAPTER 2 OF 5
How can I explain the test to my child?
A simple explanation is enough: the child will look at pictures of coloured dots and say which numbers they can see. Encourage the child to answer honestly.
There is no need to coach guessed answers. If the child does not understand the task, let the screening staff know so they can explain it.
CHAPTER 3 OF 5
How do I request an appointment?
HPB’s guide links to its appointment-booking instructions. For a new appointment, these describe logging into HealthHub with Singpass, selecting Appointments and the child, then Make New Appointment and completing the FormSG request.
Check the resulting SMS confirmation and the appointment details. A submitted request should not be treated as a confirmed visit time until the confirmation is received.
CHAPTER 4 OF 5
What should I organise for the visit?
Read the clinic’s instructions, check the location and arrange a caregiver’s attendance where required. Remember that the colour vision test is offered on weekdays.
If the visit overlaps school, ask about the school’s absence or early-collection procedure. Plan the journey from Punggol around the confirmed appointment rather than a preferred time.
CHAPTER 5 OF 5
What happens after screening?
Follow the explanation and instructions provided with your child’s result. If classroom materials are difficult to use, discuss the specific difficulty with the teacher.
Ask the school about any relevant examination-support process when needed. A screening result should not be treated as automatic approval for a particular examination arrangement.
Information checked on 11 October 2026. Follow HPB’s current instructions and the guidance given for your child’s screening or appointment.
