As of the 2026 academic year, the minimum score required to attend high school in Beijing is 540 points on the national college entrance examination, also known as the Gaokao. This threshold is set by the Beijing Municipal Education Commission and is designed to ensure that only students with a strong academic foundation are admitted to the city's high schools. The Gaokao score is a crucial factor in the admissions process, as it reflects a student's performance across various subjects, including Chinese, mathematics, and foreign languages.

The 540-point requirement is based on historical data and the overall academic performance of students in Beijing. According to the Beijing Municipal Education Commission, the average Gaokao score for students admitted to high schools in the city has been consistently around 540 points over the past few years. This figure takes into account the competitive nature of high school admissions in Beijing, where the demand for spots in top-performing schools far exceeds the number of available seats.

The Beijing Municipal Education Commission also considers the national average Gaokao scores when setting the minimum admission threshold. In recent years, the national average Gaokao score has hovered around 500 points. However, Beijing's high schools aim to attract the best and brightest students from across the country, which necessitates a higher minimum score. The 540-point requirement ensures that only students who have demonstrated exceptional academic abilities are granted admission to Beijing's high schools.

Moreover, the 540-point threshold is subject to change based on various factors, such as the overall academic performance of students in Beijing and the availability of seats in high schools. For instance, if the number of high school seats increases or if the academic performance of students improves significantly, the minimum score requirement may be adjusted accordingly.

In conclusion, the minimum score of 540 points is necessary to attend high school in Beijing for the 2026 exam due to the city's competitive admissions process, the historical performance of students, and the national average Gaokao scores. This threshold ensures that only the most academically talented students are admitted to Beijing's high schools, which are renowned for their rigorous academic programs and excellent facilities.