The National College Entrance Examination or Gaokao (高考) is a high-stakes yearly test in China. This exam contributes significantly to evaluating a student’s eligibility for post-secondary enrolment. Gaokao consists of 3 compulsory subjects (mathematics, Chinese, English) and 1 optional subject. In 2025, around 13.35 million Chinese pupils participated in this test.
Although a large number of students attend this exam each year, but it is hard to pass this test. Yes, it has been noticed that students tried to get help from AI chatbots like DeepSeek, Doubao, etc., in the examination hall. Therefore, popular AI question answer services were turned off at the request of Chinese authorities in testing facilities. Indeed, AI tech firms suspended AI features and image recognition services in exam venues.
So, wouldn’t it be more effective to use AI tools for preparing for the university entrance exam instead of relying on them on the exam day? That is why we are going to share the best free AI tools that actually help you prepare for the Gaokao or university entrance exams within China.
Best Free AI Tools for Gaokao Preparation in China
Baidu Wenxin Yiyan, DeepSeek-R1, Qwen and Doubao are some of the best free AI tools for Gaokao preparation. Let’s delve into their core properties and drawbacks.
1. Baidu Wenxin Yiyan (文心一言 / ERNIE Bot)
Best for: Getting high scores in Gaokao essays
Link: https://ernie.baidu.com/
Founded in 2023, Baidu Wenxin Yiyan or ERNIE Bot is a next-generation AI chatbot developed for answering questions in real-time, writing text and creating innovative content. This Baidu-backed AI platform utilizes natural language processing (NLP) and large Chinese datasets. Therefore, ERNIE Bot is an excellent AI tool to aid students in passing the Gaokao seamlessly.
Ernie Bot is more effectively customized for Chinese-speaking audiences, and you can use it without using a VPN within China. Access to previous Gaokao papers, compliance with policies of the Chinese government and constant ML improvements make it an ideal AI tool for young learners.
Have a look at the key features of using ERNIE Bot for Gaokao study prep.
Provides excellence in Chinese language studies – Chinese is one of the compulsory subjects of the Gaokao exam. So, if you want an AI tool to be perfect in essay writing, vocabulary, paragraph logic, modern and classic Chinese, Baidu Wenxin Yiyan should be your option. This AI app offers you essay models and other sample queries based on real Gaokao prompts.
STEM Concept Clarification Engine – ERNIE Bot is also a standout pick to study mathematics and science subjects. This Chinese AI tool enables students to break down math problems into small sections and explains each step seamlessly. In addition, 文心一言 demystifies physics concepts and equations, chemical reactions and biological topics like a pro.
English Language Support – Baidu Wenxin Yiyan is not only limited to Chinese and STEM subjects, but it can also help you improve your English scores. Yes, this AI tool also suggests Gaokao-relevant synonyms, idioms, and collocations, and clarifies complex grammar concepts like conditionals, passive voice, and clause structures.
Limitations
- Sometimes it delivers incorrect or overly basic mathematical explanations when tackling higher-level calculus or geometry questions.
- Underperforms in natural English usage and idiomatic language. Particularly when measured against advanced tools like ChatGPT or Grammarly.
2. DeepSeek-R1
Best for: Robust logical reasoning and precise solutions for math problems
Link: https://chat.deepseek.com/
DeepSeek-R1 is a globally recognized, open-source and free AI tool that gives tough competition to ChatGPT. Released in 2025, DeepSeek-R1 can surely assist students in passing Gaokao exams by offering structured outlines, analyzing past topics and better planning. Indeed, this AI tool complies with the country’s legal framework and utilizes local databases to help students.
Mainly, the DeepSeek-R1 model is considered an excellent choice to customize study schedules, replicate Gaokao-level exercises and solve logical and analytical queries. However, it is better to use custom prompts like “帮我分析2023年高考作文题：’安静一下不被打扰’ —— 如何立意？列出三个论点。” to get answers with more accuracy here.
Let’s explore the core features of DeepSeek-R1 when it comes to Gaokao preparation:
Next-Level Writing Support – Whether you want a strong grip over classical Chinese or modern reading like summarizing passages, DeepSeek-R1 always comes with brainstorming topics and ideas. It has been trained on a comprehensive Chinese linguistic database, which is why you will find it best for preparing Chinese literature and writing.
Quantitative and Analytical Reasoning – This open-source AI model is an exceptional instructor to grasp word math problems that require critical thinking. You can employ it to get step-by-step solutions for trigonometric, algebraic, and trigonometric problems.
Cross-Language Support – The Majority of Chinese models are trained in Mandarin, but DeepSeek-R1 is also specialized in the English language. Consequently, students can get help for grammar corrections and Gaokao-style prompts in English and several other languages.
Limitations
- Verify responses to avoid relying on potentially incorrect outputs.
- DeepSeek is limited to text input and works best after practicing real Gaokao papers.
3. Alibaba Tongyi Qianwen (通义千问)
Best for: Attaining top scores in Math with step-by-step reasoning
Link: https://chat.qwen.ai/
Qwen or 通义千问 is another similar to ChatGPT artificial intelligence platform introduced by Alibaba. Released in 2025, Qwen 2.5-Max AI is its most recent model that outperforms DeepSeek in many areas. This easy-to-use AI tool could be helpful for Gaokao test-takers to pass this exam with the highest scores.
This open-source LLM accepts multiple types of inputs from textbook images to PDF files. So, it becomes easy for students to do interactive tutoring while using this AI platform. The availability of various models like Qwen2.5 and QwQ-32B, easy integration with Chinese educational technologies and personalization also make it a perfect choice to prepare for the Gaokao.
See the top features of using Alibaba Tongyi Qianwen:
Great Tool for Math Reasoning – Qianwen facilitates the pupils with powerful QwQ-32B and Qwen-Math models. These AI models perform well in breaking down mathematical problems like GPT-4. Similarly, Qwen is good at identifying where the logic or calculation went wrong when students submit a flawed step.
Great Support for Reading Comprehension & Classical Chinese – With robust linguistic understanding and a wide context range, Qianwen supports mastery of classical and contemporary Chinese reading tasks. It perfectly explains the author’s intentions and summarizes the meaning of passages seamlessly.
Helpful for Revisions, note-taking, and Essay Writing – Qwen has the ability to convert entire textbook chapters and lengthy notes into flashcards and bullet point summaries because of its ultra-long context support (128K+ tokens). Voice assistance, image recognition, mock tests and essay writing functionalities also make a go-to option for Gaokao exam study.
Limitations
- Qianwen’s standard version doesn’t support image inputs. Therefore, students can’t upload handwritten diagrams and queries.
- While Qianwen effectively explains classical Chinese texts (文言文), it has difficulty producing original content or poetic responses that align with the Gaokao essay criteria.
4. Doubao (字节跳动)
Best for: Powerful ability to fix reasoning mistakes and maintain logical clarity
Link: https://www.doubao.com/chat/
Doubao (豆包) is a user-friendly, multimodal AI platform that is able to process video, audio, text and image prompts. Backed by ByteDance (TikTok’s owner company), this AI chatbot’s new Doubao-1.5 Pro variant outperforms popular Chinese and US AI platforms. That is why 豆包 gained over 60 million users in a short period.
Students in China can easily access this AI chatbot without a VPN to get assistance for Gaokao preparation. Thanks to its LLM integration, Doubao excels at processing and analyzing complex data. This feature makes it ideal for high-demand fields like research and data science. Its strengths include PDF-based question answering, natural-sounding content, and an affordable pricing plan.
Explore the major benefits of using Doubao to pass the Gaokao test:
Accurate Help for Logical Reasoning – Doubao is particularly strong in breaking down multi-layered math questions, which is crucial for excelling in the Gaokao exam. Hereof, 豆包 supports multiple symbolic expressions, quickly points out the student’s mistakes and confers detailed, step-by-step solutions for advanced problems in algebra, geometry, and calculus.
Good at Explaining Science Concepts – If you are going to choose any subject like Chemistry, Biology or Physics, Doubao can explain the concepts, diagrams and formulas skillfully. The availability of flashcards and mock tests also stands out among rival AI solutions.
Enhances learning experiences in both English and Chinese – Doubao helps you excel in both English and Chinese, no matter which language you’re focusing on. You will also find it a more accurate AI tool to translate from Chinese to English or vice versa.
Limitations
- Although Doubao assists with writing, it cannot replicate the independent thought and human concern often required in Gaokao essays.
- Lack of lab interpretations and outdated data are also cons of using 豆包.
5. iFlytek 智能学习机
Best for: Studying all compulsory Gaokao subjects with precision learning
Link: https://edu.iflytek.com/solution/family/learning-pad
讯飞智能学习机 or iFlytek Smart Learning Machine is a custom-built, AI-based study tablet introduced by a Chinese IT company, iFlytek. Its core purpose is to adapt learning paths for students across all school levels, with strong support for senior high Gaokao prep.
Students who want an approved classroom tool to focus on getting top grades in the Gaokao must use iFlytek 智能学习机. Backed by academic research and school alliances, the tablet includes rich video content to explain STEM, mathematics, Chinese, and English subjects.
Have a look at the key capabilities of iFlytek Smart Learning Machine:
Best for Precision Learning – It evaluates your performance to uncover learning gaps and subjects needing improvement. In this regard, 讯飞智能学习机 crafts dynamic learning plans to prioritize weak concepts over already understood material.
Complete Subject Coverage – Unlike the other AI solutions, 讯飞智能学习机 provides full subject coverage from Mathematics to STEM courses. Indeed, it solidifies foundational understanding in key math topics, assists science-track learners, and boosts language proficiency in English and Chinese.
Three-Part Gaokao-Oriented Teaching Model – This AI system follows the spiral teaching model (螺旋式教学) used in top-performing Gaokao schools. A key benefit of these tablets is access to expert-led video courses that follow the national syllabus and Gaokao framework.
Limitations
- Unmoderated tablet use can result in negative side effects like eye discomfort, sedentary habits, and diminished focus.
- With prices ranging from RMB ¥4,000 to over ¥8,000, the device is considered a premium option.
Comparison Table for Top Free Chinese AI Tools for Gaokao Prep
| AI Tool | Parent Company | Free/Paid Tier | Best For (Subjects/Skills) | Key Limitations |
| ERNIE Bot (文心一言) | Baidu | – Free basic use – Premium for full access | – Chinese (writing, 文言文) – English – General Q&A and logic writing | – Weak advanced math – Generic answers if the prompt isn’t specific |
| DeepSeek-R1 | DeepSeek (深度求索) | – Open-source – Cloud API may charge | – Math logic – Science reasoning – Programming and STEM training | – No K12 or Gaokao alignment and needs output verification – Lacks a UI-friendly interface for students |
| Qwen (通义千问) | Alibaba (阿里巴巴) | – Free via Tongyi platform – API paid | – English – Essay structure – Logic/Reasoning skills | – No image input – Needs precise prompts for effective responses |
| Doubao AI (豆包) | ByteDance (字节跳动) | – Free on Doubao App – Some Pro content | – Math (multi-step reasoning) – Chinese – Reading & English | – Lacks deep essay insight (humanism, 独立思考) – Not yet adapted to the full syllabus |
| iFlytek Smart Learning Machine (讯飞学习机) | iFlytek (科大讯飞) | – Paid hardware device | – Full Gaokao syllabus: 语文, 数学, 英语, 理综, 文综 – Essay writing & correction | – Expensive (¥3000–6000) – Requires stable internet & login – Not freely accessible |
Final Words
Gaokao is a pivotal exam for Chinese high schoolers, and many now turn to AI tools like ChatGPT for support. Unfortunately, ChatGPT access in China is restricted and requires a VPN extension or software to get around the Great Firewall. Thanks to Chinese technology firms, students now have access to top-quality free AI tools for Gaokao study.
In this article, we highlight leading AI solutions like ERNIE Bot, Doubao, and DeepSeek-R1, which can help students perform better in the Gaokao exam.
