The annual Gaokao, the Chinese national college entrance exam, has officially kicked off across the Chinese mainland today. A staggering 13.35 million students are set to sit for the most high-stakes test of their academic careers, according to the Ministry of Education.
Known for its rigorous format, Gaokao not only determines university placements but also influences future career paths, from engineering and biotech to entrepreneurship and digital innovation. Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang underscored the government's commitment to uphold fairness, ensure safety, and incorporate digital tools to streamline the exam process.
In recent years, authorities have introduced new measures—ranging from online registration checks to exam hall AI surveillance—to guarantee transparency and curb malpractice. This year, local testing centers have also ramped up COVID-19 protocols, reflecting lessons learned during past disruptions.
For many Chinese mainland youths, Gaokao is more than a test; it is a rite of passage that shapes personal ambition and national development. As global industries increasingly seek top talent in tech, finance, and sustainability, the results from this year's exam could ripple through international classrooms and startups alike.
Whether students emerge as engineers, business leaders, or thought leaders, the journey begins this week in exam halls from Shanghai to Sichuan, uniting millions under the shared goal of higher education and future impact.
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Gaokao begins in China with over 13.3 million students participating
cgtn.com
