Recently, several regions in China, including Beijing, Shanghai, Hunan, Anhui, Fujian, and Guangxi, have begun the registration process for the 2025 National College Entrance Examination, commonly known as the Gaokao. Notably, many areas have announced that supplementary registrations for the Gaokao will be abolished starting in 2025, and strict eligibility checks will be implemented to prevent “Gaokao migration.”
Traditionally, registration for the Gaokao occurs between October and November. However, this year, the timeline seems to be more concentrated in mid to late October and early November. For instance, in Shanghai, the online registration for the 2025 Gaokao will take place from October 14 to 17 (from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM each day), and on October 18 from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. In Hunan, the collection of registration information and payment will occur from October 16 to 31, excluding weekends. Additionally, Jiangxi has scheduled its registration from November 1 at 9:00 AM to November 7 at 5:00 PM, while Henan will collect registration data for arts students from October 28 to November 1 and for non-arts students from November 4 to November 16.
Importantly, Hunan has stated that starting in 2025, there will be no supplementary registration for the Gaokao, and all candidates must complete their registration within the designated timeframe without any extensions. Similarly, Hebei has indicated that no supplementary registration will be allowed after the initial registration period closes.
Eight provinces will implement a new examination system, adopting a “3+1+2” model set to take effect in 2025. This model is part of a nationwide reform affecting 29 provinces. The new system will include standardized subjects as well as elective subjects for students. For example, the “3” refers to the mandatory subjects: Chinese, Mathematics, and English, which all students must take regardless of their specialization. The “1” represents a chosen subject from either Physics or History, and the “2” allows students to select two subjects from Politics, Geography, Chemistry, or Biology.
Moreover, local documents have emphasized the need for stringent eligibility checks with a focus on preventing “Gaokao migration.” For example, in Guangdong, authorities are implementing strict audits of students’ enrollment status to prevent unlawful relocation for the purpose of taking the Gaokao. Any discrepancies or fraudulent actions designed to secure registration will result in disqualification. Similarly, in Fujian, strict measures will be enforced to maintain proper registration practices and combat illegal activities that facilitate cross-regional Gaokao participation.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Education has reminded students to pay attention to their registration types, including regular, arts, and sports categories, and to thoroughly review related regulations to ensure accurate submissions.