BEIJING -- The Chinese mainland will lower the admission threshold for Taiwan's high school graduates who apply for studying in mainland's higher education institutions, the Ministry of Education (MOE) said Tuesday.

According to the MOE, from Oct 1, Taiwan's high school graduates with scores ranking in the top 50 percent in the island's college entrance exam can apply for studying in mainland institutions. Currently only those ranking in the top 25 percent can apply.

Since 2010, mainland institutions have been accessible to high school graduates from Taiwan, who can pick from a range of institutions, with an exam score above the standard.