Gaokao 2025 Day 1 Highlights: China's National College Entrance Exam Kicks Off
Chinese high school students begin the gaokao amid heartfelt rituals and strong community support.
On the morning of June 7, millions of students across China sat for the opening session of the national college entrance examination, or gaokao, marking the beginning of a highly anticipated and intense period for families and educators alike. In cities like Binzhou, Shandong, school gates buzzed with emotion as candidates, fresh from their first test, exchanged jubilant high-fives with teachers—a gesture symbolizing encouragement and relief after months, if not years, of rigorous preparation.
The gaokao remains deeply woven into the cultural tapestry of Chinese society. For many, it is seen not only as a gateway to higher education but also a pivotal moment that can shape future careers and social mobility. As such, unique traditions have flourished around this annual rite of passage. This year, red-themed accessories were especially visible: mothers wore cheongsams—whose pronunciation echoes "winning" in mandarin—while students sported red ribbons as talismans for good fortune. These symbolic gestures serve as expressions of hope and solidarity within families facing the pressure of the exams.
Outside exam centers, families offered more than just words of encouragement. Many carried sunflowers, drawing on the flower's Chinese homophone for “ranking top.” The intention was clear: to imbue their children with positivity and ambition at a moment of vulnerability and anticipation. These supportive acts form a powerful backdrop to the academic proceedings, making the gaokao a collective emotional experience rather than merely a test of knowledge.
Meanwhile, schools and local authorities worked together to ensure a smooth process. In one notable instance, law enforcement quickly assisted a student who had forgotten identification, providing a temporary ID in mere minutes and ensuring the candidate would not miss the life-shaping opportunity. Such moments reinforce the commitment of the wider community to the success and well-being of each examinee.
As the first day drew to a close, scenes of camaraderie and reassurance highlighted how the gaokao is far more than an exercise in academic achievement: it is an enduring symbol of collective aspiration and resilience. For the young candidates and their supporters, these days will be remembered not just for the tests written, but for the unity, care, and hope that defined them.
