FUDAN University is reforming its enrolment process to make it easier for outstanding students in poor areas to gain entrance, it announced yesterday.

For the first time, underprivileged students will not be required to sit the univeristy's exam or be interviewed after passing the national test. “The reformed process will save students from poverty-stricken areas the cost of transport and accommodation,” said Ding Guanghong, director of the university's admission office.

Students from poor areas need only to apply online and will be selected on the basis of their performance at school and on the national college entrance exam.