Farmer’s Daughter Cracks China’s Toughest Exam, Gaokao, Without Coaching Or Smartphone | Education and Career News
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Han Yaping achieved an extraordinary 699 out of 750 in China’s Gaokao—widely regarded as one of the world’s toughest college entrance examinations.
Han Yaping devoted herself to classroom learning and independent study. (File Photo)
When determination is unwavering and the desire to achieve a dream runs deep, a lack of resources can never stand in the way of success. This truth is perfectly reflected in the inspiring journey of Han Yaping, an 18-year-old student from a poor rural family in China’s Henan Province.
Han achieved an extraordinary 699 out of 750 in China’s Gaokao—widely regarded as one of the world’s toughest college entrance examinations, reported South China Morning Post. Without a smartphone, expensive coaching, or private tuition, she relied solely on her hard work, discipline, and self-study, proving that perseverance often matters more than privilege.
Her remarkable Gaokao performance earned her admission offers from two of China’s most prestigious universities—Tsinghua University and Peking University.
No Smartphone, No Coaching
In an era where students often depend on smartphones, online resources, and costly coaching institutes, Han took a different path. She never owned a personal mobile phone, and her family could not afford private tutoring.
Instead, she devoted herself to classroom learning and independent study. Recognising her exceptional commitment, her school waived her tuition fees, provided free hostel accommodation, and even gave her a monthly allowance to support her education.
Life Filled With Hardships
Han’s childhood was filled with challenges. Her mother has been bedridden due to Ankylosing Spondylitis, a severe spinal disease, while her father struggles to support the family as a farm laborer. Despite these hardships, Han never allowed her circumstances to define her future.
Han’s father could spare only 10–20 yuan (roughly Rs 120–Rs 240) each week for her expenses. Rather than spending it, Han carefully saved most of the money and returned it to her father whenever she visited home.
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Her mother’s prolonged illness inspired her to pursue medicine. Witnessing her mother’s pain firsthand strengthened her resolve to become a doctor so she could help people suffering from serious illnesses and make quality healthcare more accessible.
She advised students to work hard otherwise one will face many struggles later on in life. She believes education is the most powerful tool for changing one’s destiny. Her greatest dream is to use knowledge to provide her parents with a life of dignity and comfort.
Han’s journey is a powerful reminder that determination, resilience, and education can triumph over even the most difficult circumstances.
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