In China, the Gaokao is more than just an exam—it’s a national rite of passage. The National College Entrance Examination, commonly referred to as the Gaokao, is vital in deciding university admissions and future career paths for millions of students in China. Since its reintroduction in 1977, the exam has been administered annually in June and is frequently described as one of the most demanding and high-pressure assessments worldwide. Students spend years preparing, with many even attending "cram schools" or dedicating 12 hours a day to studying. The exam consists of three required subjects: Chinese, English, and mathematics, in addition to one optional subject that aligns with the student's interests. Achieving a high score can lead to acceptance into prestigious universities and significantly impact a student's future, whereas a low score may restrict opportunities.

In early June 2025, China took the extraordinary step of prohibiting access to artificial intelligence tools during the Gaokao examination. The government directed major technology firms, such as Alibaba, Tencent, and Baidu, to temporarily deactivate AI chatbots, including Tongyi Qianwen and Ernie Bot, nationwide during exam times. This initiative was part of a comprehensive effort to address academic dishonesty in a world that is becoming more digital.

AI: A New Kind of Threat

Since the launch of tools like ChatGPT, students around the world have increasingly utilized AI for academic help, including tasks like solving math problems and writing essays. In China, homegrown AI chatbots such as Alibaba's Tongyi Qianwen and Baidu's Ernie Bot have gained substantial popularity, raising worries about how they might be improperly used during the Gaokao exam.

The Ministry of Education acted preemptively by partnering with cybersecurity agencies and technology companies to halt access to AI tools across the nation during exam hours from June 7 to June 10, 2025. This suspension was not restricted to students taking tests; instead, it temporarily disabled AI tools for all users throughout mainland China.

This collaborative initiative underscores the government's rising need for "algorithm governance," a phrase utilized by Chinese officials to indicate stricter regulations on the application of AI and other emerging technologies in society. Notably, AI companies did not publicly resist this move. Some technology leaders have backed the initiative, portraying the ban as a matter of national duty and upholding academic integrity.

For a test as important as the Gaokao, where one's university—and by extension, future career—depends on the outcome, ensuring fairness is crucial.

By creating a distinction between conventional academic standards and technological expedients, China is indicating that AI ought to support education without compromising it. However, some critics believe this decision hampers innovation and creates confusion regarding China's goals as a global AI leader. In a Medium article, Nanthakumar poses a thought-provoking question: Does the prohibition of AI in exams reflect an unpreparedness to incorporate it effectively into the educational system?

Rather than enforcing complete bans, some argue that enhancing digital literacy is a more effective method. Teaching students how to use AI responsibly can help them view it as an asset rather than a danger. Given that AI is rapidly becoming a common tool in the corporate sector, shouldn’t the education system evolve to reflect this change?

Finding the Balance

Education systems around the globe are facing a common challenge: how to maintain academic integrity amid technologies capable of composing essays, solving mathematical problems, and even replicating human dialogue. While China's strategy might appear drastic, it highlights an essential reality— we are navigating unfamiliar territory. The issue isn't about preventing its use but rather establishing guidelines that permit it to thrive without undermining fundamental principles such as fairness, honesty, and critical thinking.

China’s suspension of AI during the Gaokao highlights the significant role of fairness in education. However, it also prompts critical inquiries regarding the future of education in a world influenced by AI. Are we creating systems that equip students to handle real-world problems, or are we holding on to obsolete notions of merit?

Perhaps the solution lies in finding balance. Whether we embrace it or not, AI is likely here to stay. Instead of implementing outright bans, we should develop frameworks that encourage responsible use of AI. These frameworks should adapt assessments to the digital age and provide both teachers and students with the tools they need to succeed alongside technology, rather than fearing it.