On October 15, the official registration for the 2025 national postgraduate entrance examination began, and a recent report from MyCOS Research Institute indicates a noticeable cooling trend in the “exam frenzy” that has been prevalent in recent years. However, the demand for graduate studies in certain fields, such as agriculture, science, and medicine, remains strong.
The topic of the “exam craze” has consistently captured public attention. Statistical data reveals that in 2015, the number of candidates registering for postgraduate studies was 1.649 million. This figure surged in subsequent years, crossing the 4 million mark by 2022. In 2024, the number further rose to 4.38 million, marking the first decline in applicants after eight consecutive years of growth.
According to the report by MyCOS, the primary motivations for graduates pursuing further studies include enhancing their employment competitiveness and fulfilling career development needs. In the 2023 cohort, 48% and 45% of graduates stated they opted for postgraduate studies due to promising job prospects and career advancement needs, respectively.
However, the report recommends that graduates carefully consider their career plans and development directions before committing to graduate studies. It also emphasizes the need for universities and policymakers to provide more comprehensive career planning and employment guidance services. This support can help graduates understand the job market and adapt to its ever-evolving landscape, thus avoiding a blind pursuit of further education.
In terms of specific fields of study, the report highlights that the proportions of students continuing with graduate education in agriculture (28.8%), science (27.8%), and medicine (27.3%) have consistently reached or exceeded 25% over the past three years. The report suggests that the characteristics of these disciplines, along with strong market demand for highly educated professionals, drive students to pursue advanced degrees for better career prospects.
In recent years, the scale of admissions and training for master’s and doctoral programs has continued to expand. Meanwhile, discussions surrounding the devaluation of graduate degrees and the worth of pursuing higher education have intensified.
Research data indicates that over time, obtaining higher qualifications positively impacts graduates’ income levels and job satisfaction. The report concludes that further study and educational enhancement can provide graduates with economic rewards, boost their competitiveness in the job market, and lead to greater job satisfaction and career fulfillment.
