Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the changes in the college entrance examination (Gaokao) application process in China, particularly the implementation of the new examination reform in various provinces, which allows for greater flexibility and choice for students in selecting their preferred universities and majors [2][8]. Group 1: New Examination Reform - The new Gaokao reform has been implemented in 29 provinces, with 8 provinces adopting it in 2025, introducing a parallel application model that significantly increases the number of choices for students [2][8]. - The parallel application model allows students to apply for both universities and specific majors, enhancing the alignment between students' interests and their chosen fields of study [2][8]. Group 2: Application Models - There are two main application models: parallel application and sequential application. The parallel model follows a "score priority, following the application" principle, while the sequential model emphasizes "application priority, following the score" [4][5]. - The parallel application model reduces the risk of "sliding" (not being admitted to any university), as students have multiple opportunities to be accepted based on their scores [6][8]. Group 3: Application Strategies - Experts suggest that students should prioritize applying to universities over specific majors, as employers often value the institution more than the major itself [14]. - The article highlights the importance of balancing the choice of university and major, with recommendations for students to consider their career prospects and the relevance of their chosen fields to emerging industries [15][16].

Group 1 - The new college entrance examination reform has been implemented in 8 provinces, increasing the total to 29 provinces nationwide [1] - The new examination system adopts a parallel volunteer model, allowing for a significant increase in the number of choices for candidates, with some provinces allowing up to 112 choices [1][7] - The parallel volunteer model enhances the alignment between candidates' interests and their chosen majors, as it combines institutions with specific programs [1] Group 2 - The parallel volunteer admission model reduces the risk of candidates being left without a placement, known as "sliding," but does not eliminate it entirely [5] - Candidates must understand the differences between the two volunteer models: parallel volunteers and sequential volunteers, as the former allows for simultaneous consideration of multiple choices [2][3] - In the traditional sequential model, the first choice is critical, while the parallel model allows for multiple opportunities, reducing the pressure on candidates [3][5] Group 3 - The new examination reform allows candidates to choose their subjects, breaking the traditional division between arts and sciences, and changing the way they fill out their applications [6] - Different provinces have varying maximum numbers of choices, with some allowing over 80, and others like Liaoning allowing up to 112 [7][9] - The reform emphasizes the importance of professional choices while also allowing for flexible major adjustments, reflecting the dual focus on both professional and institutional selection [12][13] Group 4 - There is a debate on whether candidates should prioritize universities or majors when filling out their applications, with some experts suggesting that securing a place in a good university is more important than the specific major [11] - The reform encourages a balance between professional priorities and institutional reputation, with many universities offering flexible major changes [12][13] - The admission process has been streamlined, merging previous undergraduate batches into fewer categories, which requires candidates to strategically plan their applications [13]