How the Gaokao Reform Affected Education Expenditure and Student Wellness

In 2014, China embarked on its most comprehensive, systematic, and profound round of Gaokao reform since the restoration of the national college entrance examination in 1977. The objective of this reform was to provide students with the flexibility to choose Gaokao subjects based on their interests as well as more examination opportunities annually. Although many scholars have explored its positive impact on helping students develop interest in studying, our research indicates that the reform has also led to an increase in the average tutoring expenses of students and failed to alleviate their stress.