考研

考研 refers to the national postgraduate entrance examination in China, a standardized test that students take to gain admission to master's or doctoral programs at Chinese universities.

The character 考 (kǎo) means 'to examine' or 'to test,' and 研 (yán) means 'to study' or 'to research.' Together, they form a term that specifically denotes the rigorous academic assessment required for graduate studies in China.

考研 is an important milestone for many Chinese students, often seen as a pathway to better career opportunities and higher education. It is highly competitive and requires extensive preparation, typically beginning months or even years in advance. Many students prepare by attending special tutoring classes or studying independently.