Which is the 3 toughest exam in the world?
The 3 Toughest Exams in the World
There are several exams globally renowned for their extreme difficulty, low pass rates, and intense competition. While opinions may vary, the following three are frequently cited as among the toughest:
- Gaokao (China's National College Entrance Examination)
- Considered one of the most challenging standardized tests, Gaokao determines university admission for millions of Chinese students each year.
- The exam is known for its rigorous syllabus, immense pressure, and high stakes, as results can define a student's future opportunities.
- UPSC Civil Services Exam (India)
- This exam selects candidates for the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and other top government positions.
- It involves several stages: Preliminary, Mains (multiple papers), and a personal interview. Only a tiny fraction of applicants succeed.
- Master Sommelier Diploma Exam
- Regarded as the hardest wine exam globally, it consists of theory, practical tasting, and service components.
- The pass rate is extremely low, often less than 10%. Only a handful of candidates pass each year.
Other highly challenging exams, such as the CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) exams, All Souls Prize Fellowship Exam (Oxford), and the Mensa IQ test, are also notable but typically not ranked in the very top three by consensus.