The Impact of Lottery Admissions on Chinese Private Schools: A Case Study and Policy Reflections

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Thursday 5:25 pm Four Seasons Ballroom 2-3
  In Roundtable Session: Policy and Competition in Private School Choice (Table 9)

Abstract

The "Simultaneous Admission of Public and Private Schools" policy represents a key reform in China’s compulsory education system, aiming to create a more equitable enrollment process. This case study examines the policy's impact on private schools. Findings indicate that lottery-based admissions have led to operational challenges for private schools, creating discrepancies between public and private school enrollments and not meeting societal expectations for private education. Additionally, this policy has affected teacher motivation. Recommendations include localized adjustments to the policy, such as specifying autonomous enrollment ratios for different private schools, providing support for private education development, and ensuring policy stability. Collaborative development between public and private schools is also advocated to leverage strengths and address weaknesses.

Authors

• Yan Chunshun, East China Normal University

• Mengting Qian, East China Normal University