10 mln students sit college entrance exam

Over 10 million high school graduates across China are now meeting possibly the most important challenge in their lives.

The 2009 national college entrance exam began Sunday. The Ministry of Education says the number of candidates has dropped for the first time in seven years.

Like many other high schools nationwide, this one in Beijing has been routinely used as an exam venue. About 500 students are taking the challenge here.

For many students, it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It's a ticket for better education and employment.

The flu outbreak means students must fill out a health form, since testing requires so many people in close quarters.