aren't the exit exams in high school just another way of government controlling one's life?

Answer 1

In Many ways, I agree, reinforcing conformity creates a non-creative person with few outlets for expression of the self. It is the murder of the artist and individualism.

Answer 2

No, they are a method to verify that the high school is doing its job and making sure you learn. Sadly some high schools in the USA graduate students who cannot actually read. The tests are to try to make sure that you know what you need to know for the next steps in your life, college, work, or trade school.