In the ancient literature of China, the word "education" first appeared in Mencius with all my heart, which means "to be educated by talented people in the world". Shuowen Jiezi explains that "teaching is the effect applied to it"; "Education, training children well", education is teaching and educating people.

The word "education" comes from Latin educare, which means "education".

Education in China began with China's classic works, not religious organizations. In the early days of China, educated officials were appointed to run the empire. The imperial examination system for selecting officials was established in Sui Dynasty, and Emperor Taizong perfected it. It was abolished in late Qing Dynasty 1905 and replaced by western education.