Chinese universities are expected to enroll 3.35 million students this year, an increase of 150,000 over that of 2002, according to sources with the Ministry of Education.
Yuan Guiren, vice minister of Education, attending a working conference which concluded on Wednesday in Guangzhou, said that the 2003 schedule for university entrance exams had already been set up. They will take place from June 7 to 10.
He noted that 5.27 million people took the university entrance exam last year, and 3.2 million enrolled. Of these, 1.64 million enrolled in Bachelors' degree programs (including military academies).
Yuan said that, by 2010, the Chinese government will provide access to higher education to 23 percent of college-age population, a significant increase from the current 15 percent, with a more optimal subject structure and higher quality.
The entrance exam date was moved up a month because most regions of China are very hot and rainy in July.
Yuan asked all relevant departments to make adequate preparations for this year's university enrollment.
(Xinhua News Agency January 16, 2003)
