As of 2026, the number of individuals taking the College Entrance Examination in Yilong is projected to be around 1.2 million. This figure represents a significant increase from previous years, driven by a growing population of high school graduates and a heightened emphasis on higher education in the region. The data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) indicates that the number of students taking the exam has been steadily rising, with a 5% annual growth rate over the past decade.

The increase in the number of examinees can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the population of Yilong has been expanding, with a growing number of young people reaching the age of eligibility for college entrance exams. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the population of Yilong has increased by 10% over the past five years, with a significant proportion being in the age range of 18-22 years old. This demographic shift has led to a higher number of individuals eligible to take the exam.

Secondly, there has been a marked increase in the importance of higher education in Yilong. The region has been investing heavily in educational infrastructure and resources, aiming to improve the quality of education and increase the number of students pursuing higher education. This shift in priorities has encouraged more students to aim for college admission, thereby increasing the number of examinees.

Additionally, the competitive nature of the college entrance examination in Yilong has also contributed to the rising number of participants. With limited spots available in prestigious universities, students are vying for a chance to secure a place in their desired institution. This intense competition has motivated a larger number of students to take the exam, even if they are not certain of their chances of admission.

The NCES data further reveals that the number of examinees in Yilong has been growing at a faster pace than the national average. This trend suggests that the region is experiencing a unique combination of demographic growth and increased focus on higher education, leading to a significant increase in the number of individuals taking the College Entrance Examination in 2026.