Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the challenges faced by the 13.35 million candidates in the 2025 national college entrance examination (Gaokao) regarding school and major selection, highlighting the increasing reliance on AI tools and high-priced consulting services for assistance in the decision-making process [1][2][20]. Group 1: AI Tools in College Admission - Over 10 million users utilized AI admission assistants on June 25 last year, indicating a significant demand for AI tools in the college admission process [4][20]. - AI tools can quickly generate recommendations for universities and majors based on candidates' scores and preferences, making them a popular choice among students and parents [7][21]. - Major internet companies like Quark, Baidu, and QQ Browser have launched AI admission assistance products, while various data service companies offer paid AI tools ranging from 98 to 980 yuan [7][8]. Group 2: Traditional Consulting Services - Traditional consulting services, such as those offered by Zhang Xuefeng, have seen high demand, with services priced at 11,999 to 17,999 yuan selling out quickly [10][11]. - The industry is characterized by a mix of experienced and inexperienced consultants, leading to concerns about the quality of advice provided [11][20]. - The New Oriental's college admission services charge between 6,590 and 7,500 yuan, depending on the number of consultations included [11]. Group 3: Complexity of the New Admission System - The new college admission system has increased complexity, with candidates facing more choices and requirements based on their selected subjects [14][16]. - The number of parallel admission choices has risen to 45, with some provinces allowing over 80 choices, complicating the decision-making process for candidates [16][18]. - The extensive resources available for candidates, such as admission guides and directories, can be overwhelming, prompting many to seek assistance from AI tools or consulting services [18][20]. Group 4: Limitations of AI Tools - While AI tools provide quick and comprehensive recommendations, they are not infallible and can yield varying results based on different data sources and algorithms [24][26]. - Users are advised to treat AI as a supplementary tool rather than a sole decision-making resource, emphasizing the importance of cross-referencing multiple AI systems [26][27]. - The article suggests that candidates should also engage with alumni and gather insights about their target schools to make informed decisions [27][30].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the challenges faced by the 13.35 million candidates in the 2025 national college entrance examination (Gaokao) regarding school and major selection, highlighting the increasing reliance on AI tools and high-priced consulting services for assistance in the decision-making process [1][2][19]. Group 1: AI Tools in College Application - Over 10 million users utilized AI admission assistants on June 25 last year, indicating a significant trend towards AI in college application processes [5]. - AI tools can generate comprehensive recommendation reports for candidates based on their exam scores and preferences, providing options for nearly 600 universities and over 4,000 majors [9][11]. - Major internet companies like Quark, Baidu, and Douyin have launched AI admission assistance features, making these tools widely accessible [9][11]. Group 2: Traditional Consulting Services - Traditional consulting services, exemplified by figures like Zhang Xuefeng, charge high fees (up to 17,999 yuan) for personalized guidance, with significant demand evidenced by rapid sell-outs of service slots [14][15]. - The industry is characterized by a mix of experienced and inexperienced consultants, raising concerns about the quality of advice provided [16]. - Established companies like New Oriental also offer admission services at varying price points, indicating a competitive market for college application assistance [15]. Group 3: Complexity of New Gaokao Reform - The new Gaokao reform has introduced a more complex selection process, with candidates facing up to 80 options for applications, significantly increasing the difficulty of making informed choices [19][22]. - The reform allows for a more diverse range of subjects and combinations, complicating the admission landscape further [20]. Group 4: Considerations for Candidates - Candidates are encouraged to use AI tools as supplementary resources rather than sole decision-makers, as discrepancies in AI-generated admission probabilities can be significant [31][33]. - A balanced approach involving multiple AI tools and personal research is recommended to ensure a well-rounded decision-making process [35]. - The article emphasizes the importance of personal interests, employment trends, and long-term career planning in making final choices regarding schools and majors [40][41].