Over 12 million students take China's Gaokao, one of the world's toughest exams

China's annual college entrance examination, the Gaokao, entered its second day on Monday as students took the English test. Around 12.9 million candidates registered for this year's exam, which remains the primary gateway to university admission in China.

In Short

• Gaokao's second day held on June 8 with English exam for millions
• 12.9 million candidates registered for 2026 Gaokao nationwide
• New system in 29 provinces extends testing over three days

China's annual national college entrance examination, the Gaokao, entered its second day on Monday, June 8, as millions of students across the country sat for their English language test, a crucial step in one of the world's most competitive academic examinations.

With nearly 12.9 million candidates registered this year, the Gaokao once again underscored its immense significance in China, where exam scores can shape university admissions and influence future career prospects.

For millions of students and their families, the high-stakes test represents years of preparation, intense pressure, and the pursuit of academic success.

MILLIONS TAKE PART IN HIGH-STAKES EXAMINATION

According to China's Ministry of Education, approximately 12.9 million students have registered for the 2026 Gaokao. The multi-day examination, which began on Sunday, June 7, tests students in subjects including Chinese, Mathematics, English, Science and Humanities.

For most candidates, Gaokao scores serve as the primary criterion for admission to Chinese universities, placing immense pressure on students and their families.

EXAM CENTRES FILLED WITH NERVOUS STUDENTS

Across Beijing and other cities in China, students gathered at examination centres with their identification cards and writing materials in hand, set to face one of the most consequential tests of their academic careers.

Most had devoted months to rigorous preparation, following demanding study schedules and completing numerous practice examinations.

Among the candidates was 18-year-old Zhang Xinnan, who said he felt nervous ahead of the Chinese language examination, especially the essay section. Nevertheless, after a year of intensive preparation, he expressed confidence in his performance during a conversation with AFP.

NEW EXAM SYSTEM EXTENDS TESTING PERIOD

While some students are completing their final examinations on Monday, candidates in 29 provincial-level regions that have adopted China's reformed Gaokao system will continue taking subject-specific tests through Tuesday and Wednesday.

The revised examination structure allows students to choose certain subjects, leading to varying schedules across different provinces.

AUTHORITIES MOBILISE TO SUPPORT CANDIDATES

Chinese authorities have rolled out extensive support measures to ensure smooth transportation and logistics during the examination period.

Transportation departments have advised students to leave early and use public transport where possible to avoid traffic congestion. The public has also been encouraged to avoid peak-hour travel around examination centres.

Traffic police, medical personnel and volunteers remain on duty across the country to assist students and ensure the exams proceed smoothly.

PARENTS GATHER TO OFFER SUPPORT

Outside examination centres, anxious parents waited for their children, many dressed in red, a colour traditionally associated with luck and success in Chinese culture.

Their presence reflected the enormous significance of the Gaokao, an examination widely regarded as a life-defining opportunity for China's youth.

A CRUCIAL TEST FOR MILLIONS

As the Gaokao continues, millions of students remain focused on securing the scores needed to gain admission to their preferred universities. With competition fierce and expectations high, the examination once again highlights its central role in shaping educational and career opportunities across China.

- Ends