Gaokao (高考) Exam Countdown

The Gaokao (高考, short for 普通高等学校招生全国统一考试) is China's national college entrance examination and arguably the most important exam in the Chinese education system. Held annually in early June, the Gaokao is taken by approximately 10 million students, making it the largest examination in the world by number of participants. The exam serves as the sole criterion for admission to Chinese universities, and a student's score determines which institutions and programs they can attend. The Gaokao has profound cultural significance in China, with entire families and communities rallying to support students during the examination period. The exam covers mandatory subjects — Chinese, Mathematics, and a foreign language (usually English) — plus additional subjects depending on the province and the student's chosen track.

The Gaokao 2026 is scheduled for June 7–8, 2026, the traditional exam dates. Some provinces extend testing to a third day depending on their reform model. On the first day, students take Chinese (150 minutes) in the morning and Mathematics (120 minutes) in the afternoon. The second day covers the foreign language exam and additional subjects. Under China's ongoing Gaokao reform, many provinces have adopted a "3+1+2" or "3+3" model, where students select elective subjects from physics, chemistry, biology, history, geography, and political science. Each mandatory subject is scored out of 150 points, while elective subjects are typically scored out of 100 points each. The total possible score varies by province but is generally 750 points. Our countdown helps you track every day, hour, and minute until the exam begins.

Gaokao preparation is an intensive, long-term endeavor that typically begins in earnest during the final year of high school (Grade 12). Students follow a rigorous review schedule covering all exam subjects, often supplemented by extra tutoring and self-study. For Chinese, practice essay writing (zuowen) extensively and review classical Chinese texts, poetry analysis, and reading comprehension strategies. Mathematics requires systematic practice across all topics, from functions and sequences to probability and solid geometry. For the English exam, build vocabulary, practice reading comprehension, improve listening skills, and refine essay writing. Create a detailed revision plan that allocates time based on each subject's weight and your personal strengths and weaknesses. Regular practice with past Gaokao papers and provincial mock exams is essential for building familiarity with the format and managing exam pressure. Maintain physical health through exercise and adequate sleep, as the exam demands peak mental performance.