National College Entrance Examination: 9.75 mln 'Generation Zers' set to sit the Gaokao

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02:04

It's that time of the year again, as the National College Entrance Examination, or Gaokao, kicks off today nationwide. This year, people born after the year 2000, are sitting the big test for the first time. Sun Ye has the report.

They've crammed for the test for at least a year. And they're often told it's a make or break time, determining whether they get into their dream school.

SUN YE GUANGZHOU "Gaokao is a big deal for us non-test-takers too. No construction is allowed over these few days, no karaoke in the evenings, traffic is being controlled, and there is a complete ban on honking all to ensure the test takers are not disturbed."

And the generation Zers who are taking it, are really quite chill.

ZHENG HUAJIAN 18-YEAR-OLD TEST TAKER "I'm a little nervous, but just the right amount. After all, I've got so many years ahead of me."

LI ZITONG 18-YEAR-OLD TEST TAKER "Whatever happens you can always bounce back."

And this year they are much more in control. The 18-year-olds will not only be choosing their own majors, but for the FIRST time, the graduates are able to say NO to majors they don't like, even in cases where they have to settle for assignments.

Assigning a major mostly happens when someone doesn't score high enough on the test. They can still go to the university they opt for but will have to settle for an assigned major. The new policy ensures they don't get assigned the major they like least.

LI ZITONG 18-YEAR-OLD TEST TAKER "My first choice is Finance. And definitely no physics studies."

ZHENG HUAJIAN 18-YEAR-OLD TEST TAKER "I would likely to study engineering. And I will not accept arts majors."

Educators say this year's students are already winners in mentality.

YUAN MINXIANG, PRINCIPAL GUANGZHOU DATONG MIDDLE SCHOOL "You could say this generation is the most relaxed. They grew up in an age where there are so many choices and so many new ways to learn. And they're definitely more aware of the possibilities out there."

And after a day of grueling tests, the kids of the 21st century, do remain cool. SY, CGTN, GUANGZHOU.