Chinese and U.S. Schools: In Comparison
When comparing U.S. and Chinese schools, one finds a number of stark differences and unexpected similarities.
Differences exist
Let’s begin with the most overwhelming difference. While the Chinese education system has many different objectives, its dominant feature is the gaokao system. Gaokao refers to the national exam that high school students take to determine admission to colleges and universities. The main part of the exam is taken by most students during their senior year, although some special subject exams can be completed the year before.
Despite being a nationwide standardized exam, the way the gaokao is administered varies somewhat by location. Most subject exams divide between a STEM or humanities track, but there are others, including art, music and sports.
The system is not limited is another important exam, faced by students as they are graduating from middle school. It can determine whether they continue to high school or move into a vocational training track. It can also determine whether they attend top-ranked high schools.
