The U.S. college admissions system is holistic, considering a combination of factors like grades, standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendation letters. It allows for a broader evaluation of a student's potential beyond academics.
In contrast, China's system is heavily exam-focused, centered around the Gaokao, a national college entrance exam. Students' Gaokao scores are the primary determinant of their college admission, with little emphasis on extracurricular activities or personal achievements. The process is highly standardized and competitive, with success largely hinging on this single exam.