Ministry issues reminders ahead of gaokao

As China's national college entrance exam, also known as gaokao, approaches, the Ministry of Education has recently released a list of reminders for students and parents.

The ministry also published a list of national and provincial gaokao hotlines for reporting issues related to the 2025 exam. Reports will be investigated promptly to ensure the fairness and integrity of gaokao, the ministry said.

The ministry reminded candidates to carefully review and confirm the exam schedule, exam site location, exam room number, and candidate instructions.

The reminders also clarified requirements regarding candidate clothing, permitted exam materials, and procedures for entering the exam site, while outlining the consequences for violating exam regulations.

It is highlighted that bringing mobile phones, smartwatches, smart glasses, or any device capable of sending or receiving information into the exam room constitutes cheating, regardless of whether the device is used. Taking photos of the exam paper or answer sheet and sharing them on online platforms is considered a criminal act and will be handled in accordance with the law, said the ministry.

To maintain personal health, candidates were also advised to take appropriate health precautions, minimize unnecessary outings and avoid crowded places in the days leading up to the exam.

According to the reminders, in case of any emergency traffic situation, candidates may seek assistance from the traffic police. Meanwhile, all exam sites have contingency plans in place for emergencies, including illness or fever.

The ministry also reminded candidates and parents to rely on official websites and accounts and only trust officially released information. They should avoid being misled by unofficial advertisements or promises, the ministry said.

According to the ministry, provincial examination authorities will announce the release time and official channels for checking gaokao results after the exam. Candidates and parents should stay updated through official channels.

The ministry said it will upgrade its Sunshine gaokao platform and the Sunshine College Application service system this year. Provinces will also enhance their local college application service platforms to better assist students in filling out college applications.