Overview
The National High School Mathematics League (全国高中数学联赛, often called Gaolian) is China's main high school mathematics competition. It began in 1981, is approved by the Ministry of Education, supervised by the China Association for Science and Technology and organised by the Chinese Mathematical Society. It is the first step toward the Chinese Mathematical Olympiad and China's team for the International Mathematical Olympiad.
Who can take part
The official page does not set out detailed eligibility rules; the competition is for high school students and is run through provincial organisers.
Exam pattern
The league has two tests on the same day.
| Detail | First test (一试) | Second test (二试) |
|---|---|---|
| Time (2026) | 8:00 to 9:20 (80 minutes) | 9:40 to 12:30 |
| Questions | 8 fill-in-the-blank (8 points each) and 3 solution problems (16, 20 and 20 points) | 4 solution problems covering plane geometry, algebra, number theory and combinatorics |
| Total marks | 120 | 180 (two problems of 40 and two of 50) |
The first test stays within the high school curriculum range but expects stronger methods. The second test is a proof-style olympiad paper. Reports note that the second test was lengthened from 2019, which is why the 2026 time runs to 12:30 rather than 12:10.
Marking and results
Provincial organisers award first, second and third prizes. Roughly 1,200 provincial first prize winners are chosen each year, and over 200 of them are invited to the China Mathematical Olympiad winter camp. About 30 top scorers there form the national team for the International Mathematical Olympiad. A student needs both tests to be considered for a first prize or a place on a provincial team.
Important dates
For 2026, both tests are on Sunday, September 13, 2026. The league is normally held on the second Sunday of September.
How to apply
Registration is arranged through provincial mathematical societies and schools; check your province's notice for fees and deadlines.
Preparation tips
Practise past first-test and second-test papers together, and build strength in geometry, number theory, algebra and combinatorics for the second test.
Do I have to take the second test?
It is optional, but you need both tests to be considered for a first prize or a provincial team place.