To protect the integrity of China’s highly competitive gaokao university entrance exam, leading technology companies including Alibaba and ByteDance have temporarily suspended certain artificial intelligence-powered tools. The decision comes amid rising concerns that AI chatbots and search services could be misused by students to gain an unfair advantage during the examination period.
The gaokao, considered one of the world’s most grueling standardized tests, is a critical determinant of university admissions and, by extension, students’ futures. Every year, millions of students prepare for the exam, which is closely monitored for potential misconduct. This year, heightened vigilance led tech firms to curtail AI features such as real-time problem-solving and essay writing support.
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Temporary Restrictions on AI Chat Services
The announcement affects platforms such as Alibaba’s Tongyi Qianwen and ByteDance’s Doubao, which have grown in popularity for their academic assistance capabilities. These services are currently inaccessible in several regions during the exam period, particularly in areas where gaokao centers are located.
Industry insiders stated that the shutdowns are temporary, with operations expected to resume after the conclusion of the exams. “This is a preventive measure to avoid ethical dilemmas and safeguard exam credibility,” one spokesperson said. The action aligns with government advisories issued to prevent technology-aided malpractice.
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China’s Ministry of Education and related authorities have praised the move, emphasizing that educational integrity must be preserved at all costs. As AI tools become increasingly embedded in daily student life, their potential misuse has drawn regulatory attention. This latest development may signal a broader shift toward more controlled deployment of AI in sensitive sectors like education.
Experts believe that while AI has the potential to revolutionize learning, its ethical use must be constantly reassessed, especially during critical assessments. The current policy may set a precedent for future exams not only in China but also in other countries facing similar challenges.
About the Author – Anirudh Mittal is a B.Sc. LL.B. (Hons.) student at National Forensic Sciences University, Gandhinagar, with a keen interest in corporate law and tech-driven legal change.