Zhongkao is the Chinese term for the high school entrance examination, officially known as the Senior High School Entrance Examination. It is typically taken by students in their final year of middle school, around the age of 15 or 16. The exam assesses students' knowledge in subjects such as Chinese, Mathematics, and English, and plays a crucial role in determining their admission to senior high schools. The results of the Zhongkao influence students' educational paths, as different high schools have varying admission criteria based on exam scores. This examination is an important milestone in the Chinese education system, shaping students' futures and opportunities for further academic pursuits.