All the three universities were on the list of so-called Project 211 and Project 985. In the 1990s, the Chinese government launched the projects, which added special qualifications for certain top universities. Project 211 listed 100 first-tier universities, while Project 985 contained 39 of the best from Project 211.

"Their father and I are teachers at a senior high school in Meihekou," their mother, Lu Yashu, said. "From their first day in primary school, we paid a lot of attention to the cultivation of good study habits and independent learning.

"We also believe it is important to build good character, including a work ethic and being kindhearted and responsible. During the past years, they often encouraged each other and discussed their studies."

Even though they cannot study in the same city, they will continue to make progress together, the triplets agreed.