The decline of the traditional imperial examination and education system came towards the end of the Qing dynasty. Western missions had started to found schools and universities which taught 'modern' science and technology. Corruption had become extremely widespread with bribes used to directly buy the qualifications. The system ended in 1905 to be replaced with a National University Entrance Examination (Gao kao 高考). 

The Gaokao has a wider range of subjects including science and technology in the standard three levels of schooling: primary, secondary and tertiary. The Gaokao is sometimes criticized as still requiring too much learning by heart and continues to evolve. In the period 1949-1989 Marxist indoctrination formed a core part. During this era practical application was a compulsory subject so students would do some manual work as a part of the degree.

The cultural and historical emphasis on examinations continues to produce hard working and receptive candidates. The continuing importance of educational attainment is based on a 2,000 year old respect for the profound importance of learning.

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