The Economist examines China’s gaokao preparation in new podcast episode

The Economist has released a new episode of its weekly podcast series dedicated to China, focusing on the experiences of students preparing for the gaokao. The episode, titled “Inside the world’s most important exam (part one)”, examines the preparation process for China’s national college entrance examination.

The gaokao is widely regarded as a critical determinant for university admission and future career prospects in China. The podcast’s latest instalment delves into what it is like for students to undergo this rigorous preparation phase, offering insight into the educational landscape that shapes the country’s higher education intake.

This release forms part of The Economist’s ongoing weekly coverage of China, which provides news and analysis on the region’s political, economic, and social developments. The podcast series has established itself as a regular fixture in the publication’s output, offering listeners detailed perspectives on key issues affecting the country.

While recent geopolitical activity has dominated headlines, including a summit in Beijing between US and Chinese leaders that addressed trade, artificial intelligence, and regional security, the podcast’s content remains distinct from these diplomatic discussions. The focus here is squarely on the educational and social dimensions of the gaokao rather than macroeconomic policy or international relations.

The episode was made available via The Economist’s website on 14 July 2026. As part of a multi-part series, this first instalment sets the stage for further exploration of the exam’s impact on Chinese society and its students.