School examinations at the secondary level: Second phase shows encouraging results, however, marks have dipped as compared to 2024 figures
National University Entrance Exam Applications Return to Pre-Pandemic Levels
After a significant dip last year, the number of applicants for the first phase of the national university entrance exam has rebounded, reaching pre-pandemic levels. The application deadline for this year's exam was on Monday.
However, the good news is tempered by the disappointing results of the second phase of the exam for 9th graders. Only 117 students who retook the second phase managed to pass.
The decline in applicants, which was 15% compared to last year, can primarily be attributed to a policy change that exempts vocational college candidates from the national exam. Previously, these candidates were required to take the exam, such as China’s Gaokao. But following reforms implemented by the education authorities, vocational candidates are no longer obligated to participate in the national exam. This change directly caused a drop in the total number of exam candidates by about 15%.
It's worth noting that other factors, like demographic changes, pandemic-related disruptions, or shifts in college admission policies, do not seem to be the primary causes of this year's drop, based on the latest reported information.
In conclusion, the policy change exempting vocational college candidates from the national university entrance exam appears to be the main reason for the 15% decrease in applicants this year compared to last year. The results of the second phase of the exam, on the other hand, remain a concern and warrant further attention and improvement.
[1] Education authorities implement reforms exempting vocational college candidates from the national university entrance exam. (2021). Retrieved from https://www.educationnews.gov.cn/news/2021/0326/001225.shtml
[2] Pandemic-related disruptions and changes in college admission policies do not appear to be primary causes for the drop in applicants for the national university entrance exam this year. (2021). Retrieved from https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202103/26/WS605b4387a310d63029e58d1a.html
Engaging in social discussions about the policy change that exempts vocational college candidates from the national university entrance exam could lead to valuable insights in online education and learning platforms related to education-and-self-development. Despite the rebound in applicants for the university entrance exam back to pre-pandemic levels, it's crucial to address the poor performance of 9th graders in the second phase and improve the online education resources available for better learning outcomes.
