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].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the recent announcement by Zhang Xuefeng, a prominent figure in the education consulting industry, to pause his live broadcasts for two months, which has sparked widespread speculation about the implications for the industry and his future plans [3][8]. Industry Impact - Zhang Xuefeng's rise has disrupted traditional education consulting firms that rely on information asymmetry and high fees, as he provides accessible and straightforward advice on college admissions and career prospects [4][5]. - His candid critiques of certain university programs and job prospects may negatively affect the enrollment of less favorable majors, thereby impacting the revenue of some universities [5][6]. - Zhang's approach has also threatened illegal entities that profit from selling "exclusive materials" related to college admissions, as his emphasis on transparency undermines their business model [6][10]. Strategic Moves - The registration of multiple trademarks by Zhang Xuefeng for his daughter's name suggests a strategic shift towards building a family-oriented and diversified business empire beyond just education consulting [8][9]. - The pause in live streaming is seen as a tactical decision to focus on one-on-one consulting services, which are more lucrative and essential for his business model [12][14]. AI and Industry Evolution - The emergence of AI in education consulting poses a challenge, but Zhang emphasizes the importance of emotional value and personalized guidance that AI cannot replicate [10][14]. - The future of the industry may involve a collaboration between AI and human consultants, where AI handles data analysis while human experts focus on decision-making and emotional support [15]. Conclusion - Zhang Xuefeng's recent actions reflect a broader trend in the education consulting industry, where personal branding and emotional connection are becoming increasingly important amidst technological advancements [14][15].