As China’s annual National College Entrance Examination, known as the gaokao, commenced on June 7, the nation once again turns its attention to the millions of students undertaking this pivotal test. Recognized as one of the most significant milestones in Chinese education, the gaokao determines admission to higher education institutions and is a defining moment for many young people and their families.
But what about students around the world? Are there equivalents to the gaokao in other countries? Two international students at Tsinghua University, Mustafa Umut Özbek from Türkiye and Andrés Ospina from Colombia, share insights into their home countries’ college entrance examinations.
YKS: Türkiye’s Pathway to Higher Education
Mustafa explains that in Türkiye, the college entrance examination is known as the YKS (Yükseköğretim Kurumları Sınavı). “The YKS is a comprehensive test that assesses students’ knowledge in various subjects, including mathematics, sciences, literature, and social sciences,” he says. “It’s a critical exam that plays a significant role in university admissions and students’ future careers.”
He notes that, much like the gaokao, the YKS is a highly competitive exam that requires extensive preparation. “Students spend years studying for the YKS. It’s a challenging period, but it’s also a time of growth and determination,” Mustafa adds.
Saber 11: Colombia’s National Exam
Andrés discusses Colombia’s national college entrance exam, the Saber 11. “The Saber 11 is administered by the Colombian Institute for the Evaluation of Education. It evaluates students in areas such as critical reading, mathematics, social studies, science, and English,” he explains.
“The results of the Saber 11 are crucial for university admission and scholarships,” Andrés says. “Like the gaokao, it represents a significant step in a student’s educational journey and can open doors to future opportunities.”
Shared Experiences and Encouragement
Both Mustafa and Andrés empathize with the pressures that come with such important examinations. “We understand the hard work and dedication required,” Mustafa says. “To all the gaokao candidates, stay focused and believe in yourself.”
Andrés adds, “This is a momentous occasion. Trust in your preparation, and remember that this is just one step in your journey. Best of luck to all.”
As students across China sit for the gaokao, it’s clear that the pursuit of higher education is a universal experience, shared by young people worldwide. The support and well-wishes from international students underscore the global connection in striving for academic success.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
