Unlocking Opportunities: CUPL's Gaokao Live Broadcast on April 30

On April 30, 2026, at 1:00 PM Beijing time, the China University of Political Science and Law (CUPL) takes center stage in the 'Gaokao You Zhao' series organized by the China Education News Agency. This highly anticipated live broadcast, accessible via platforms like China Higher Education, China Education Net, and the China Education Newspaper's Si Xiang Zhe video channel, features CUPL's Admissions Director Yu Ruichen. The session promises an in-depth dissection of the university's 2026 Gaokao admission policies, addressing key concerns for high school students and parents navigating China's fiercely competitive college entrance exam landscape.

The event couldn't come at a better time, coinciding with the height of Gaokao preparation season. With CUPL renowned as China's premier institution for legal education, thousands are expected to tune in for insights into new majors, program specifics, talent development strategies, international collaborations, and practical admission tips. This broadcast not only clarifies policy updates but also demystifies the path to one of the nation's top 'Double First-Class' universities specializing in law.

A Legacy of Excellence: CUPL's History and Prestige

Founded in 1952 as the Central Political and Legal Cadres School, CUPL has evolved into a powerhouse with over 70 years of history. Located across two scenic campuses in Beijing—the historic Haidian campus and the modern Changping campus—it serves more than 20,000 students, including undergraduates, postgraduates, and international scholars. As a '211 Project' and '985 Advantage Discipline Innovation Platform' university, CUPL holds the top spot in China's political and legal university rankings according to the 2026 Soft Science China University Rankings, outpacing peers like East China University of Political Science and Law and Southwest University of Political Science and Law.

In global terms, CUPL shines in QS Asia University Rankings, consistently placing in the top 100 for law and political sciences. Its law discipline is designated 'Double First-Class,' underscoring its role in shaping China's legal framework and producing leaders in judiciary, legislation, and governance. The university's motto—'Thick Virtue, Bright Law, Practical Inquiry, Public Service'—embodies its commitment to ethical, innovative legal minds ready for national service.

2026 Admission Policies: Key Updates and Highlights

While full 2026 enrollment plans are still being finalized, the live broadcast will outline expected changes based on recent trends. CUPL anticipates recruiting around 2,400 undergraduates nationwide, similar to 2025's 2,411 spots. Notable innovations include the debut of Sino-foreign cooperative programs at the new Hainan International College in Lingshui, starting with a 4+0 English-taught bachelor's with the University of Ottawa—the university's first such venture.

Professional group optimizations, especially Group 5, signal refined subject alignments under the '3+1+2' Gaokao model. Expect emphasis on service to national strategies, with increased allocations to mid-western provinces (up ~5%). No participation in the Qiangji Plan, but expansions in experimental classes and joint programs reflect CUPL's push for interdisciplinary talent.

Signature Majors and Cutting-Edge Programs

CUPL offers 27 undergraduate majors across law, politics, economics, management, literature, philosophy, and more. Core offerings include:

• Law (multiple tracks: disciplinary inspection experimental class, talent reform experimental class, foreign-related rule of law experimental class)
• Political Science and Administration
• International Politics
• Economics
• Business Administration
• Journalism

New for 2026: Pioneering 'Legal English' major, the first in China per the 2026 National Undergraduate Major Catalog, blending law with language for international practice. Joint cultivation classes with Beihang University and Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications fuse law with engineering ('law-engineering'), while a collaboration with Beijing Foreign Studies University targets foreign-related rule of law talents. Four 'Law +' double-degree projects grant dual bachelor's, enhancing employability.

Navigating the Admission Process Step-by-Step

Gaokao admission to CUPL follows national protocols via the Ministry's online system. Here's the roadmap:

1. Pre-Exam Prep: Focus on core subjects; CUPL values balanced scores, no gender quotas or extra physical tests (even for investigation-related tracks).
2. Score Benchmarks: Reference 2025 minima: Beijing 646 (position ~2,500), Shanghai 569, Hainan 723, Jiangsu Physics 631.
3. Volunteering: Score-priority, no grade differences; obey adjustments to avoid rejection.
4. Special Tracks: Experimental classes via secondary selection post-enrollment; high-level sports teams (22 spots 2026).
5. Post-Admission: Results query via official channels; beware frauds as warned in CUPL's April statement.

International applicants: 16 English/Chinese programs, HSK4+ required.CUPL International Admissions

Score Trends and Strategic Advice from the Live

2025 data shows CUPL's competitiveness: top province scores exceed 650 frequently. Director Yu Ruichen will share province-specific tips, subject selections (most open, history-preferred for humanities), and risk mitigation. With demographic shifts, expect slight plan tweaks favoring balanced regional intake. Actionable insights: Prioritize CUPL in top choices if scores align; explore joint programs for unique edges.

International and Cooperative Opportunities

CUPL's global footprint expands with Hainan Sino-foreign programs, joint degrees, and exchanges. The 'Foreign Rule of Law Talent Base Class' grooms elites for Belt and Road initiatives. Partnerships with Ottawa U, Beihang, BUPT, and BFSU offer dual credentials, blending Chinese law with international perspectives—ideal for careers in multinational firms or diplomacy.

Career Prospects and Alumni Success

95%+ employment rate within six months, alumni dominate Supreme Court, ministries, top firms. Law grads average starting salaries exceed RMB 15,000/month in Beijing. Programs emphasize practical skills: moot courts, internships, interdisciplinary training. Future outlook: Rising demand for legal tech, compliance experts amid China's global rise.

Gaokao.cn CUPL Profile highlights robust outcomes.

Campus Life and Support Systems

Two campuses offer vibrant life: Haidian's urban buzz, Changping's green expanses with sports facilities, libraries housing 3M+ volumes. Scholarships (up to full tuition), counseling, clubs foster holistic growth. Amid Gaokao pressures, CUPL stresses mental health, echoing national reforms.

Photo by David YONG on Unsplash

Why Choose CUPL in 2026? Future Outlook

As China advances rule-of-law reforms, CUPL positions itself at the vanguard, innovating curricula for AI-law fusion, digital governance. The April 30 live is your gateway—tune in for real-time Q&A. With expanding opportunities, CUPL remains the gold standard for aspiring legal eagles.