For students, exams are a big part of their education journey, but some exams are known to be especially tough. These exams don’t just test what you know; they challenge your ability to stay calm under pressure, manage your time, and think critically. Whether it’s for getting into a top university or proving your skills in a specific area, these exams are known for being some of the hardest in the world. In this blog, you will read about the Top 10 toughest exams in the world, their eligibility, purpose, and more. Ready to dive in? Let’s begin!
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What Are The Top 10 Toughest Exams In The World?
Some exams around the world are known for being very challenging, requiring hard work, focus, and deep knowledge. Below, we have mentioned the list of top 10 toughest exams in the world which are the hardest to crack. Applicants need to do hard preparation to pass these exams
| Rank | Exam Name | Country/Location | Duration | Minimum Score Required | Purpose |
| 1 | Gaokao | China | 2 days | Varies by province, generally around 450-600 out of 750 for top-tier universities | College Entrance Exam for high school |
| 2 | IIT JEE Advanced | India | 3 hours | 75% in Class 12 and top percentile in JEE Main | Undergraduate admission to Indian Institutes of Technology |
| 3 | UPSC Civil Services Exam (CSE) | India | 2-3 hours | Varies; typically requires a score in the top 0.1% of candidates | Recruitment to administrative posts |
| 4 | GATE | India | 3 hours | Varies by discipline; generally requires a score above 25-30% | Postgraduate studies admission, recruitment |
| 5 | GRE (Graduate Record Examination) | Worldwide | 3 hours 45 minutes | 300+ out of 340 for competitive programs | Admission to MBA and MS Courses |
| 6 | Master Sommelier Diploma Exam | USA | Varies | Pass rate below 10% in practical and theory sections | Certified Sommelier |
| 7 | All Souls Prize Fellowship Exam | Oxford, UK | 3 hours for 4 papers each | 2.5% (Source) | To qualify for a 7-year fellowship |
| 8 | CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetworking Expert) | USA | 2 hours | Pass both written and lab exams; lab pass rate around 20% | Technical certifications for networking professionals |
| 9 | Mensa International | Worldwide | – | Minimum IQ score of 130 | Society for the top 2% of intelligence |
| 10 | CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) | Worldwide | Varies | The pass rate is around 40% for each level | Designation for investment professionals |
Gaokao
The Gaokao, first introduced in 1952, is widely regarded as one of the toughest exams in the world. It’s for students who have finished high school and wish to pursue higher education in China. Every year, millions of students take the exam, hoping to secure a place in a prestigious university. The Gaokao covers subjects such as Science, Mathematics, Social Sciences, and Languages, including Chinese. Students also have the option to choose another foreign language.
| Category | Details |
| Difficulty Level of the Exam | High |
| Duration and Format | 9 hours, conducted over 2-3 days |
| Pass Rate | Low |
| Competition | High |
| Scope and Coverage of the Exam | Held annually in Mainland China. Subjects covered: Science, Math, Language. |
| Impact of the Exam | To get into top colleges in China |
IIT JEE Advanced
The IIT-JEE is a highly competitive entrance exam in India for students who want to become engineers. It is taken after completing high school and is considered one of the toughest exams in the world. The exam tests students’ knowledge and problem-solving skills in subjects like Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Successfully passing the IIT-JEE gives students the chance to get into India’s top engineering colleges.
| Category | Details |
| Purpose of the Exam | To enter top colleges in the field of engineering |
| Difficulty Level of the Exam | High |
| Duration and Format | 3 hours, 90 questions, 4 marks each |
| Pass Rate | 20-30% (Source) |
| Competition Level | High |
| Scope and Coverage of the Exam | Held annually in India in all states. Subjects covered: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology. |
| Impact of the Exam | To get into top graduate colleges in India |
UPSC Civil Services Exam (CSE)
The UPSC exam is considered one of the Top 10 Toughest Exams in the World. It’s for those aspiring to join India’s Civil Services, like IAS, IPS, and IFS. Candidates need strong knowledge of subjects like History, Geography, Science, and Economics. The age limit is 21 to 32 years, with a limit of 6 attempts for General category and 9 for OBC candidates. Preparing for UPSC usually takes years of dedication.
| Category | Details |
| Purpose of the Exam | To get into the field of Civil Services |
| Difficulty Level of the Exam | High |
| Duration and Format | 3 hours, 2 MCQ type papers: General Studies Paper-1, General Studies Paper-2 (CSAT) |
| Pass Rate | 0.20% |
| Competition Level | High |
| Scope and Coverage of the Exam | India |
| Impact of the Exam | To pursue careers in Civil Services |
GATE
The GATE exam is a tough test for engineering and tech students. It checks both theoretical knowledge and problem-solving skills. Accepted by universities in India, Germany, and Singapore, it requires intense preparation. The exam includes multiple-choice and numeric questions on subjects from engineering to life sciences.
| Category | Details |
| Purpose of the Exam | To get admission into IITs, IISC, IIITs, NITs, and other prestigious institutes |
| Difficulty Level of the Exam | High |
| Duration and Format | 3 hours |
| Pass Rate | 18% (Source) |
| Scope and Coverage of the Exam | India, Singapore, and Germany. Subjects covered include Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Information Technology, and Computer Science Engineering |
| Impact of the Exam | High importance for technical professionals |
GRE (Graduate Record Examination)
The GRE is a challenging test required for admission to master’s degree programs, especially in the United States. It tests verbal reasoning, quantitative skills, and analytical thinking. Top universities like MIT require a high score, making it crucial for students seeking higher education.
| Category | Details |
| Purpose of the Exam | To get into top colleges for MS across the world |
| Difficulty Level of the Exam | High |
| Duration and Format | 3 hours 45 minutes |
| Pass Rate | 43% |
| Scope and Coverage of the Exam | Across the world |
| Impact of the Exam | To get into top global universities in Technology |
Master Sommelier Diploma Exam
The Master Sommelier exam is one of the toughest in the world. It tests knowledge of wine, drinks, and food pairing. The exam has three parts: service, theory, and blind tasting. With a success rate of only 10%, it takes years of training to pass. Earning this diploma is a big achievement in the hospitality industry.
| Category | Details |
| Purpose of the Exam | To ensure higher standards of knowledge on beverages and services in the hospitality industry |
| Difficulty Level of the Exam | High |
| Duration and Format | 50 minutes |
| Pass Rate | 5-10% |
| Scope and Coverage of the Exam | Twice per year in the US and once yearly in the UK |
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All Souls Prize Fellowship Exam
The All Souls Prize Fellowship Exam at Oxford University is one of the toughest exams in the world. It is highly competitive, with only a few candidates chosen for the prestigious 7-year fellowship. The exam tests knowledge in the Humanities, requiring applicants to submit 2 essays on any Humanities topic. Only students with a strong background in Humanities can take this exam.
| Category | Details |
| Purpose of the Exam | To qualify for a 7-year fellowship |
| Difficulty Level of the Exam | High |
| Duration and Format | 3 hours for 4 papers each |
| Pass Rate | 2.5% (Source) |
| Scope and Coverage of the Exam | English Literature, Philosophy, Politics, and Economics |
CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetworking Expert)
The CCIE exam is for network engineers and is known as one of the toughest exams. It tests knowledge and skills in designing and fixing complex networks. The exam includes 6 tests on areas like routing, security, and collaboration. With many Cisco engineers and a low success rate, it’s one of the hardest exams to pass.
| Category | Details |
| Purpose of the Exam | To get into building technology infrastructures |
| Difficulty Level of the Exam | High |
| Duration and Format | 2 hours, 6 series of tests |
| Pass Rate | 30% (Source) |
| Scope and Coverage of the Exam | CISCO Engineers are tested on subjects including Network Infrastructure, Software Defined Infrastructure, Infrastructure Structure, and Services |
Mensa International
Mensa is a society for people with very high IQs, in the top 2% worldwide. To join, you must pass a tough exam that tests your logic, reasoning, and problem-solving skills. The exam is challenging, and members belong to a group of highly intelligent people, ranging from ages 2 to 100.
| Category | Details |
| Purpose of the Exam | To belong to an elite community of internationally high IQ |
| Difficulty Level of the Exam | High |
| Duration and Format | 25 minutes, 35 problems |
| Pass Rate | 0.02% |
| Scope and Coverage of the Exam | Conducted in roughly 90 countries such as the US, UK, Ireland, and Germany |
| Impact of the Exam | To be a part of an elite community of IQ over 98% |
CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst)
The CFA exam is considered one of the toughest exams in the world, especially in finance. It has a challenging structure and syllabus, making it a key qualification for finance careers. Accepted in over 100 countries, the CFA certification opens doors to high-demand positions. The exam has 3 levels, with the first 2 being objective-type and the third being subjective.
| Category | Details |
| Purpose of the Exam | To qualify as a CFA Charter |
| Difficulty Level of the Exam | High |
| Duration and Format | 6 hours, 240 questions |
| Pass Rate and Competition Level | 20% in Level 1 (Source) |
| Scope and Coverage of the Exam | All over India. Subjects covered include Economics, Financial Reporting and Analysis, and Portfolio Management |
| Impact and Importance of the Exam | High importance for members who want to get into Finance |
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Criteria to Determine the World’s Toughest Exam
Some exams stand out as the most challenging because they push students to showcase their best skills. The Top 10 Toughest Exams in the World are considered tough because of factors like difficult questions, a wide range of topics, low pass rates, and tough competition. These factors make these exams really challenging. You can check out the points below for the criteria to determine the World’s Toughest Exam.
1. Difficulty Level of the Exam: Tough exams have challenging questions that require deep understanding and critical thinking. These questions can be tricky, requiring students to solve complex problems or show a strong grasp of the subject.
2. Duration and Format of the Exam: The length and structure of an exam also make it difficult. For example, the top 10 toughest exams in the World often have strict time limits and many sections, such as multiple-choice questions, essays, or practical tasks. Managing time during these exams can be as hard as answering the questions themselves.
3. Pass Rate and Competition: The toughest exams have very low pass rates, meaning only a small number of candidates succeed. Many talented people take them, which makes the competition even tougher.
4. Scope and Coverage of the Exam: Exams that cover a wide range of topics or require detailed knowledge of a subject are naturally tougher. For example, the Top 10 Toughest Exams in the World often test students on multiple areas, requiring not just memorization but also the ability to connect and apply concepts.
5. Impact and Importance of the Exam: These exams are important because they open the door to big opportunities. Passing them can lead to admission into top colleges, scholarships, or careers like being a doctor or lawyer.
How to Apply for Your Exams?
Applying for exams can be tricky, and if not done right, it can mess up your entire plan. It’s really important to complete your application on time and with proper preparation. Here are some simple guidelines to help you with the application process:
- Check Eligibility: Make sure you meet all the requirements for the exam before starting the application.
- Check the Application Deadline: Know the important dates like when the application starts and ends, the last date for fee payment, and other key dates.
- Gather Documents: Collect all the necessary documents before starting. If any documents take time to prepare, like government-issued IDs, start early.
- Read Instructions Carefully: Read the application instructions carefully to avoid mistakes.
- Apply Early: Try to finish your application well before the deadline to avoid any last-minute technical issues or stress.
- Make Your Fee Payment: Most exams require a fee. Make sure you know the payment methods and pay on time, either online or offline.
- Double-Check Information: After filling out your application, review all the details carefully. If you find mistakes, fix them during the editing window if possible.
- Confirmation Mail/Receipt: After submitting your application, keep the confirmation email or receipt for future reference.
- Seek Help If Needed: If you face any issues or confusion, contact the exam authorities immediately for help.
- Stay Updated: After completing your application, keep checking the official website for any updates or changes to the exams
Strategies to Crack Tough Exams
To do well in an exam, you need a good routine and the right approach. This includes managing your time, creating a focused study plan, practising mock tests, and staying positive. With dedication and smart techniques, you can pass even the toughest exams. Here are some tips to help you prepare for the Top 10 Toughest Exams in the World:
- Understand the topics and how the exam is structured. This will help you focus on what’s important.
- Create a schedule that gives extra time to your weaker subjects. Stick to it daily.
- Use reliable books, notes, and online resources to study better.
- Solve mock tests and sample papers to improve your speed and accuracy.
- Manage your time so you can study, revise, and take breaks.
- Go over what you’ve learned regularly so you don’t forget it.
- Talk to teachers, mentors, or experts for guidance and advice.
- Keep track of current events and trends related to the exam.
- Eat well, exercise, and get enough sleep to stay healthy and focused.
- Believe in yourself and stay positive throughout your preparation.
Ultimately, the toughest exams in the world test not just your knowledge but also your ability to stay focused and work hard. While passing these exams can lead to great opportunities, they need dedication and strong effort to succeed.
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FAQs on Top 10 Toughest Exams in the World
The toughest exams include Gaokao, IIT JEE Advanced, UPSC Civil Services, GRE, and more. Each of these exams is known for its rigorous content and extremely competitive nature.
Gaokao is extremely competitive, covering a broad range of subjects. It determines university admissions in China and has a very low pass rate, making it stressful for students.
The UPSC Civil Services Exam includes subjects like General Studies, Essay Writing, and optional subjects like Geography or History, along with a comprehensive interview process.
The pass rate for the Master Sommelier Diploma Exam is extremely low, often under 10%, due to its complex blind tasting and theory components.
The CFA exam certifies investment professionals, focusing on financial analysis, ethics, and portfolio management. It has three levels, each progressively more challenging.
To be eligible for IIT JEE Advanced, candidates must be under 25 years old, have cleared JEE Mains, and have secured at least 75% in their Class 12 exams or be in the top 20 percentile.
The Mensa IQ test consists of multiple-choice questions that assess logical reasoning, pattern recognition, and problem-solving skills. It’s timed and requires high mental acuity.
Gaokao covers subjects such as Chinese language, Mathematics, and Science or Social Sciences, depending on the student’s chosen track. The exam is known for its challenging difficulty.
While primarily for Indian students, the GATE exam is also accepted by several international universities, including in countries like Singapore and Germany, for postgraduate studies.
Candidates must be between 21 and 32 years old and possess a degree from a recognized university. The exam is known for its long preparation time and a tough interview process.
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