Despite notable differences in their target candidates, content, and evaluation criteria, the New Gaokao and the Graduate School Entrance Examination (GSEE) share key similarities in terms of their examination structures, functions, and enrollment systems. Both are driven by the same educational philosophy, reform objectives, and overarching management frameworks. These commonalities foster significant interactive effects between the two reform processes. The New Gaokao’s comprehensive overhaul provides valuable insights for the reform of the GSEE, particularly through its impact on educational stratification, which contributes to the expansion of graduate education. Conversely, reforms to the GSEE offer feedback that influences the trajectory of the New Gaokao’s development, creating reciprocal spillover effects. From the standpoint of holistic and continuous talent selection, it is crucial to fully understand the policy direction of educational evaluation reforms in the new era. A comprehensive approach that leverages the experiences and outcomes of both reform processes is essential to enhance the efficacy of both the New Gaokao and GSEE reforms. Coordinated efforts should be made to continually improve the reform measures for both the New Gaokao and graduate school entrance examinations, thereby promoting the integrated development of education, scientific development, and talent cultivation in China.