Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the increasing complexity and commercialization of college entrance examination (Gaokao) application services in China, highlighting the significant market growth and the psychological factors driving demand for these services [5][11][19]. Group 1: Market Dynamics - The market for college application services has grown tenfold over the past decade, reflecting the heightened importance of strategic decision-making in the application process [5]. - The pricing of application services has increased, with notable examples such as Zhang Xuefeng's services, which saw a price hike of 1,000 yuan this year, selling out quickly [3][4]. - The number of companies providing Gaokao application services exceeds 1,300, with a significant concentration in high-exam provinces like Hebei [30]. Group 2: Application Complexity - The transition from traditional application methods to more complex systems, such as dynamic ranking and parallel application models, has made the application process more intricate [8][11]. - The introduction of new examination systems has increased the number of application choices significantly, with some provinces allowing up to 270 different options for students [14][15]. - The shift in focus from university prestige to specific majors reflects the changing landscape of higher education, where the number of available majors has increased from 309 to 845 over the past decade [17]. Group 3: Psychological Factors - The anxiety surrounding college applications is amplified by the perception that choices made at this stage can significantly impact future career paths and earnings [19][28]. - The article suggests that many families view the application process as a critical juncture for changing their destinies, leading to a willingness to invest in professional guidance [32][33]. - The uncertainty inherent in the application process drives demand for consultation services, as families seek to mitigate risks associated with their choices [29][32]. Group 4: Industry Insights - Companies like Xude Education have reported high profit margins in the application consulting business, with gross margins reaching 78.30% for one-on-one consulting services [31]. - The article emphasizes that the true value of application consulting lies in filtering and organizing complex information, which is increasingly necessary as the application landscape becomes more convoluted [32]. - The industry's growth is not only driven by potential profits but also by the relatively low technical barriers to entry, making it accessible for many new players [30][31].
张雪峰又“退网复播”,他是高考路上的收费站
首席商业评论·2025-06-21 03:56