The Outstanding Achievement of Getting into a 985 University in China

In China’s highly competitive education system, gaining admission to a 985 university - an elite group of the country’s top tertiary institutions - is an extremely noteworthy achievement. Statistics show that out of the nearly 16 million babies born in 2003, only about 183,000, or 1.14%, were admitted to 985 universities in 2021 when they reached college age.

Becoming part of that top 1% is no small feat. It requires outperforming 98.85% of one’s peers academically, often starting from a young age. Even in developed cities, entering a top high school that provides a pathway to a 985 university is highly competitive. For students from rural areas or disadvantaged backgrounds, the obstacles are even greater, with far fewer educational resources available.

Many of those who eventually get into 985 universities have to put in extraordinary efforts throughout their student years. They often can’t afford to be distracted by hobbies, relationships or entertainment like their peers, instead focusing the bulk of their time and energy on studying. For those from poor families, the entire clan may pool their meager resources to support the student’s education, seeing it as their ticket to upward mobility.

The pressure and expectations on these students are immense. If they don’t study hard enough, not only do they let down their families, they risk being left behind as the yawning gap between rich and poor in China grows ever larger. A 985 degree is seen as the minimum requirement for entry into the upper middle class and high paying jobs.

That’s why for the fortunate few who do get admitted, it’s an emotional moment of extreme pride, validation of their ability and sacrifice, and an auspicious start to their adult lives. Their entire hometowns may celebrate the occasion, basking in the glory of producing a highly accomplished student.

However, detractors point out that a 985 degree is no guarantee of future success. Some graduates end up unemployed or in low paying jobs. But that neglects the bigger picture. On average, 985 graduates still fare significantly better in the job market and have much better career prospects than their peers from lower tier universities.

At the end of the day, we can’t dismiss how meaningful it is for students, especially those from humble origins who had to overcome immense hurdles, to be admitted to the most elite universities in the world’s most populous nation. It may not guarantee success, but it is an enormous achievement worthy of recognition and respect. In a society of extreme competition and inequality, those who make it to 985 universities are indeed outstanding.