College entry still 'biased'

SHANGHAI: A new way of selecting students for higher education being piloted by the nation's top university has been slammed by some critics as still being "biased" in favor of academic achievement, instead of offering a way for students with other outstanding abilities.

The accusation came after Peking University on Monday night supported all 90 nominees put forward under the pilot program from 39 high schools nationwide. Most of the students recommended by their respective headmasters had excellent academic performance as a leading attribute.

Many headmasters said their recommendations had "top grades" and listed awards won by the students, suggesting academic achievement was still the most important factor in selecting students.