Seen on the wall here are photos of famous alumni from Communication University of China, long considered to be the best training for Chinese television presenters. Hoping to join the league, over 8,000 candidates sign up for the auditions - only a hundred of them will be enrolled.

And competition is also heating up at acting schools. Nearly 800, out of 5,000 original applicants, are entering the second round of auditions for The Beijing Film Academy. Only 50 will be accepted.

"I’ve been preparing for this for over 2 years. And I’ve come this far. It’s now or never," said a candidate.

Traditional performing arts are also attracting attention. Here at the National Academy of Chinese Theatre Arts, the candidates are having their final audition. 92 of them have made it to this round, while only 32 can take home an offer.

Every candidates only has 5 minutes to showcase their talent.

"Every move, every subtle facial expression is of vital importance at the test. I’m deeply intrigued by this traditional performing art," said a candidate.

All of the candidates have at least 5 years’ professional training already. But to take it to the next level, they say they must be enrolled at the National Academy of Chinese Theatre Arts, where there’s much more to learn.