The Gaokao exam, formally known as the National College Entrance Examination, is one of the most difficult and demanding tests in the world. This high-stakes test is administered annually in China and decides a student’s eligibility for admission to the country’s top colleges. With over ten million children competing each year, the Gaokao requires rigorous preparation, mental fortitude, and academic achievement. This tutorial explains everything you need to know about the Gaokao, including the syllabus, exam process, and significant dates for 2025.
Also See: Top 10 Toughest Exams in the World
Gaokao – China’s National College Entrance Exam
Why It’s Considered Tough
- Participants: Over 10 million students take the exam annually.
- Competition: Determines entry into top Chinese universities like Tsinghua University and Peking University.
- Pressure: A single exam can decide a student’s future educational and career path.
- Preparation Time: Students often prepare for years, sometimes studying 12+ hours a day.
Syllabus and Subjects
Gaokao is divided into three main compulsory subjects and one elective category, depending on the student’s chosen stream:
Compulsory Subjects (for all streams):
1. Chinese Language and Literature
- Classical & Modern Chinese texts
- Reading comprehension
- Essay writing
2. Mathematics
- Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Probability
- Functions and Calculus (basic)
- Science & Arts versions may differ slightly in difficulty
3. English Language
- Reading comprehension
- Grammar and vocabulary
- Essay writing
- Listening (in some provinces)
Elective Subjects (based on stream):
Students choose either the Science or Arts stream for additional subjects:
Science Stream:
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology
Arts Stream:
- History
- Geography
- Political Science (Ideological & Moral Education)
Note: Some provinces now use a 3+3 system, in which students select three of six electives (Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Politics, History, and Geography) after completing the three core subjects (Chinese, Math, and English).
Exam Process
1. Registration:
- Takes place between November and February (previous year).
- Students register through their schools or local education bureau.
2. Preparation:
- Students undergo intense preparation throughout high school (Grades 10–12).
- Practice tests and mock exams are frequent.
3. Examination Days:
- Held annually in early June, typically June 7–9.
- Duration: 9 hours across 2 or 3 days, depending on the region.
4. Scoring & Results:
- Scored out of 750 (can vary by province).
- Results are usually announced in late June.
- Determines eligibility for university admission.
Gaokao 2025 Exam Dates (Tentative)
- All Provinces – (Expected Dates) June 7 – June 9, 2025
Admission Usage
- Scores are used for college/university placements.
- A high score can grant entry into top-tier Chinese universities or even international recognition.
Quick Facts
- Attempts Allowed: Usually once per year (re-attempts allowed next year)
- Medium: Mandarin Chinese
- Cutthroat Competition: 1 mark can decide the rank difference of thousands
Conclusion
The Gaokao is more than just a test; it marks a watershed event in the academic careers of millions of Chinese students. It’s demanding material, intense rivalry, and great pressure make it one of the most difficult tests in the world. Students who want to attend top Chinese institutions must be well-prepared, have good time management skills, and be mentally strong. Understanding the exam schedule, syllabus, and timelines is the first step toward completing this life-changing task.
