China's 2025 Gaokao Prioritizes Security, Fairness, and Student Support

The 2025 gaokao, China's national college entrance exam, commenced with a nationwide commitment to supporting its millions of examinees. This commitment was exemplified by acts of assistance, such as a volunteer in Shenyang, Liaoning province, helping a wheelchair-bound student reach the test room, demonstrating the widespread efforts to ensure accessibility and fairness. Authorities across the country have implemented comprehensive measures to guarantee a safe and equitable examination experience for the 13.35 million test takers.

A key component of these efforts is the integration of advanced technology, particularly artificial intelligence, to maintain order and integrity. Real-time intelligent surveillance systems are deployed in exam rooms, such as those in Benxi, Liaoning, to automatically identify and flag any irregular behaviors, from subtle whispers to inattentive proctors. This technology extends to other provinces, including Jiangxi, Hubei, and Guangdong, providing real-time surveillance, detailed behavior analysis, and early alerts, thereby easing the burden on exam staff and strengthening the overall fairness of the process.

The Ministry of Education has further strengthened security protocols for the 2025 gaokao, emphasizing technological safeguards. These upgrades include stricter entry checks, utilizing advanced screening for devices such as phones and smartwatches, and implementing radio signal blocking at all exam sites. Upgraded security gates, capable of detecting small metal objects, are a key line of defense. Biometric verification, including facial recognition and fingerprinting, is also a standard practice to prevent impersonation. National radio authorities actively monitor test centers and surrounding areas for suspicious signals, preventing cheating via electronic devices.

Beyond technological advancements, numerous regions are taking additional steps to create a supportive and conducive exam environment. This includes the postponement of performances and the adjustment of government and business office hours to minimize distractions. Cultural institutions have also contributed by postponing events to ensure a quiet atmosphere for students.

To facilitate smooth transportation and ensure timely arrival, cities have implemented tailored measures, such as delaying office start times and encouraging carpooling. Traffic police are stationed to provide priority lanes and escort students caught in traffic. Furthermore, schools are providing shelters from adverse weather conditions, along with comfortable exam room settings. Personalized support measures, such as Braille exam papers and separate testing rooms, are also available for students with special needs. These multifaceted efforts underscore the deep societal importance placed on the gaokao, reflecting a collective commitment to fairness, opportunity, and the future.