Politics
Beijing Launches AI-Integrated Education Plan, Reshapes School Admissions and Homework Rules
Beijing residents with children in primary and secondary schools face new requirements on admissions, homework limits, daily physical activity, and private school status under policies approved in 2026.
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How we reported this
Beijing announced in June 2026 plans to integrate AI across all levels of schooling as part of the Education Development 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) approved by China’s State Council. The plan prioritises construction of a globally competitive educational system. Residents with school-age children will encounter these changes through classroom instruction, admissions processes, and after-school arrangements.
The Ministry of Education launched a 2026 special campaign to ensure fair and transparent primary and secondary school admissions. Under the campaign, children of migrant workers must enrol in public schools based primarily on residence permits. This rule directly affects families who have moved to Beijing for work and now seek local school places.
Rules on homework, exams and daily activity
New policies unveiled in March 2026 prohibit excessive homework and frequent examinations. The same policies require primary and secondary students to receive a minimum of two hours of physical activity daily. Beijing families will therefore see reduced homework loads and scheduled time for exercise during the school day or immediately after it.
Regulations banning for-profit private schools and tutoring services for children aged 6-15 are being reinforced in 2026. All existing private primary and junior high institutions must register as non-profit entities. Parents who previously used private options will need to confirm the new status of those schools before enrolment.
AI integration and next steps
The June 2026 announcement on AI integration applies to every level of schooling in Beijing. Schools will incorporate AI tools into teaching and learning under the approved five-year plan. Local education offices are expected to begin rolling out the required adjustments in line with the State Council decision.
Implementation of the special admissions campaign, homework limits, physical activity requirement, and non-profit registration rules will proceed through existing Ministry of Education channels. Beijing residents can monitor updates through official school communications and district education bureaus.