China's college entrance exam or Gaokao is breaking away from its rigid past. In June, the students in the pilot program in Shanghai and east China’s Zhejiang Province will be the first to benefit from such revolution.

Under the reforms, students have more flexibility and autonomy. Chinese, maths, and English are still required subjects. But students will no longer have to choose between a science or a liberal arts track exam.  

Instead, they will be able to select three elective subjects that match their desired major, from both science and liberal arts type subjects. Academic experts say the new mode is designed to let the students choose the subjects based on their interests.

The latest round of Gaokao reforms began in 2014 to address perceived shortcomings in the admission system. They're also meant to give greater emphasis to a more well-rounded education system and development of individual competencies across a broader range of areas.

The State Council designated Shanghai and Zhejiang for the pilot program. Non-pilot regions can design their own implementation plans reflecting the “3+3” model (three required and three electives). Other provinces and regions are expected to announce their plans.