Overview of Education in China

China has the largest education system in the world, with a long history dating back to the 16th century BC. The Education Modernization 2035 plan is the country’s latest effort to improve the quality of education, shifting the focus from “capacity” to “quality” and supporting the modernization of China.

Compulsory Education

In 1986, the Chinese government passed a compulsory education law, making nine years of education mandatory for all Chinese children. Today, above 99 percent of school-age children have received universal nine-year basic education.

Pilot Education Program

The Ministry of Education has launched a pilot education program, the Strong Base Plan, which allows 36 top universities in China, including Peking, Tsinghua, and Fudan University, to select outstanding high school graduates who are willing to serve the country’s major strategic needs. The program focuses on enrollment in majors such as mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology that have been less popular with students in recent years.

History of Education in China

Many Chinese scholars believe that the history of education in China can be traced back as far as the 16th century BC. Throughout this period, education was a privilege of the elites. Confucianism has had the biggest influence on the history of education in China.

Project 211 and 985

Project 211 is the Chinese government’s new endeavor aimed at strengthening about 100 universities and key disciplinary areas as a national priority for the 21st century. Project 985 is a constructive project for founding world-class universities in the 21st century.

Education Law of the People’s Republic of China

Adopted at the third session of the eighth National People’s Congress, promulgated by Order No.45 of the President of the People’s Republic of China on March 18, 1995, and effective as of September 1, 1995.

Nine-Year Compulsory Education in China

The nine-year compulsory education policy in China enables students over six years old nationwide to have free education at both primary schools (grade 1 to 6) and junior secondary schools (grade 7 to 9). The policy is funded by the government, and tuition is free. Schools still charge miscellaneous fees. Senior secondary school (grade 10 to 12) and college education are not compulsory and free in China.