Cracking the Code: Toughest Exam in the World (2024)
Life can be challenging, but certain exams can pose even greater difficulty! As students and professionals strive for excellence, they encounter a series of challenging tests that push their limits. Erudera takes a closer look at the most demanding exams on the planet, considering factors such as syllabus, pass rates, and competition. Whether you’re preparing for one of these rigorous exams or simply curious about the toughest tests worldwide, this article provides valuable insights and information.
1. Gaokao Exam – China
- Duration: 9 hours
- Preparation Time: 12 years
- Pass Rate: Does not have a single threshold for pass/fail
- Number of Candidates (Yearly): Approximately 12 million
- Description: The Gaokao exam is necessary for applicants who wish to pursue undergraduate courses in China. Students in their third and final year of high school take this grueling test. Less than 0.25% of students achieve the qualifying score for admission to some of China’s most elite colleges.
2. IIT JEE Exam – India
- Duration: 3 hours
- Preparation Time: Continuous efforts through two long years
- Pass Rate: 1%
- Number of Candidates (Yearly): 1,026,799
- Description: The IIT JEE exam is the gateway to prestigious Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). It evaluates students’ understanding in physics, chemistry, and mathematics. The competition is fierce, and only the top percentile secure admission.
3. UPSC Exam (Union Public Service Commission) – India
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Preparation Time: 12-month advanced preparation
- Success Rate: Just around 0.1% – 0.3%
- Number of Candidates (Yearly): Approximately 500,000
- Description: The UPSC exam is the pinnacle for aspirants seeking civil services positions in India. It covers a vast syllabus, including general studies, aptitude, and optional subjects. The success rate is incredibly low due to the exam’s difficulty.
4. Mensa – England
- Duration: 1-2 hours
- Description: Mensa is an international high IQ society. To qualify, candidates must score in the top 2% on a recognized intelligence test. It’s not just about knowledge; it’s about cognitive abilities.
5. GRE (Graduate Record Examination) – United States & Canada
- Duration: 3 hours 45 minutes
- Preparation Time: 4-12 weeks to 1 – 5 months
- Passing Score: Any score above the 50th percentile
- Number of Candidates (Yearly): Approximately 700,000
- Description: The GRE assesses verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills. It’s a crucial exam for graduate admissions.
6. CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) – United States & Canada
- Duration: 4.5 hours
- Preparation Time: 300 hours
- Pass Rate: 43%
- Number of Charterholders: 175,000
- Description: The CFA exam rigorously tests financial and investment knowledge. It’s a badge of honor for finance professionals.
7. CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert) – USA
- Duration: Around 120 minutes
- Preparation Time: 9-15 months
- Pass Rate: 26%
- Number of Candidates (Yearly): Approximately 8,000
- Description: The CCIE certification validates expert-level networking skills. It’s a pinnacle achievement for network engineers.
8. GATE Exam – India
- Duration: 3 hours
- Preparation Time: 6 months
- Pass Rate: 18%
- Number of Candidates (Yearly): Approximately 700,000
- Description: The GATE exam assesses engineering and science knowledge. It’s essential for postgraduate admissions and PSU jobs.
9. All Souls Prize Fellowship (UK):
This prestigious fellowship at Oxford University is open only to exceptional scholars. The selection process is rigorous, involving written examinations and interviews, testing a candidate’s in-depth knowledge and research potential.
10. California Bar Exam (USA):
Passing the California Bar Exam is notoriously challenging. This two-day exam assesses an applicant’s legal knowledge, skills, and professionalism, granting them the right to practice law in California.
These exams are not just assessments; they are transformative experiences. Prepare diligently, stay focused, and conquer the toughest challenges that pave the way for remarkable achievements!