China's Most Stressful Exam: 13 Million Students, Some on IV Drips

About 12.9 million students across China sat for the Gaokao this week, the decisive university entrance exam that is considered one of the most important and stressful in the world.

Outside exam centers in Beijing, many parents waited while wearing red, a color that symbolizes luck and success in Chinese culture, while teachers held balloon sunflowers as a symbol of achievement. According to media reports, some students took the test while connected to IV drips administering vitamin infusions and other fluids in an effort to stay alert during the exam.

Ahead of the test, China’s Ministry of Education said security measures would be strengthened and smart screening systems would be deployed to prevent cheating using advanced technologies, including mobile phones and smart glasses.

The ministry also said it would act