Education across the globe is filled with opportunities, but not all academic paths are created equal. Some programs demand years of dedication, countless study hours and a high level of intellectual and emotional resilience. These are often referred to as the toughest courses in the world, where students face rigorous entrance exams, an extensive curriculum, and low pass percentages.
At present, the most difficult course is believed to be aerospace engineering, its acceptance rate at MIT is below 5% only. While on the other hand, Medicine courses experience an average global dropout rate of 11.1% which is among highest in the world, some regions such as in South Americas having extreme dropout of 42-63%!
Although, the percentages are slowly decreasing by implementing integrated curriculum, still these courses are toughest. We’ll also see other courses which qualify among the hardest exams in the world.
For students aspiring to build global careers, knowing which programs are considered the toughest can help in making informed decisions. From engineering and medicine to finance and fine arts, each field has its own academic giants that test a student’s endurance to the fullest.
What Factors Make the Courses Toughest?
Not all courses are tough for the same reasons. Some require years of study, while others challenge students with practical training, research intensity, or competitive examinations. Below are the most common factors that make a course qualify among the toughest in the world:
Extensive Syllabus: Programs with a wide-ranging curriculum that demands both theoretical and practical mastery.
Competitive Admission: Entrance exams with very low acceptance rates, making it difficult to even secure a seat.
Long Study Duration: Many of these courses require anywhere between 4 to 10 years of consistent academic effort.
Low Pass Percentage: Professional courses like CA and CFA are known for their single-digit or low double-digit success rates.
Practical & Research Intensity: Fields like medicine, architecture, and pharmacy require long hours of hands-on training and lab work.
Mental & Emotional Stress: The pressure of high performance, tight schedules, and global benchmarks adds to the difficulty.
Global Standards & Licensing: Many courses require clearing international exams or licenses, further raising the bar.
Top 10 Hardest Courses in the World
The hardest courses are toughest because of a number of reasons. Long duration, less pass percentages, tight evaluation, high failure rates, rigorous curriculum etc are some factors (mentioned above) makes them tough. Also, because some courses are taught only in prestigious universities, their limited intake makes them more difficult.
Taking the above-mentioned factors in mind, here are the top 10 most difficult courses in the world.
1. Engineering
Engineering is widely recognized as one of the toughest courses in the world because of its vast academic scope, rigorous entrance exams and the balance it demands between theory and practice.
Students are required to master advanced mathematics, physics, and specialized fields while also spending hours in laboratories and project work. The competitive admissions process in top universities like MIT and Stanford, with acceptance rates as low as 4–5%, further shows how challenging it is to pursue engineering. On top of academics, engineers face long working hours, constant problem-solving, and the need to stay updated with emerging technologies.
Difficulty factors:
Duration: 4–5 years full-time study
Weekly study/project hours: 20–30+
High competition and rigorous practical assessments
Chartered Accountancy stands as one of the hardest professional courses in the world, mainly because of its lengthy and complex examination process coupled with low pass rates. Students have to clear three stages: Foundation, Intermediate and Final, along with mandatory article ship that demands hands-on training in real financial environments. The CA Final exams are known for their single-digit pass percentages in many sessions, reflecting just how difficult the journey is. What makes it even tougher is the combination of academic theory, practical auditing, taxation, law, and financial management that students must excel in simultaneously. Success requires discipline, years of preparation, and mental resilience.
Difficulty factors:
Study duration: 4–5 years (with article ship)
Pass rates: ~18–22% (CA Final 2025 exam sessions)
Extensive workload balancing academics + training
Top institutions & recognition:
Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), India
Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), UK
Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand (CA ANZ)
Top professions & salary ranges (approx.):
Role
Salary Range (India)
Avg. Salary Abroad (USA)
Chartered Accountant (Audit)
6 LPA – 15 LPA
78 LPA
Tax Consultant
6 LPA – 17 LPA
76 LPA
CFO (Mid-Tier Company)
25 LPA – 35 LPA
1.7 Cr / yr
Forensic Auditor
10 LPA – 40 LPA
60 LPA – 90 LPA
Financial Controller
15 LPA – 50 LPA
90 LPA – 1.5+ Cr/yr
Please note that these are approximate figures and can change based on a variety of factors including years of experience, company size and prestige, location within the country and specific sub-specialization.
3. Medicine
Medicine has long been considered one of the hardest courses in the world because it combines long years of study with intense practical training and high responsibility. Aspiring doctors must master subjects like anatomy, pathology, pharmacology, and surgery, often devoting 10–12 years from undergraduate studies to specialization. The workload is exhausting, with sleepless nights during clinical rotations, long hours in hospitals and a huge emotional toll in dealing with patients. Entrance exams like NEET (India), MCAT (USA) and BMAT (UK) further add to the challenge due to their competitiveness.
Difficulty factors:
Duration: 5–7 years (MBBS + internship, longer with specialization)
Weekly hours: 60–80 (study + clinical rotations)
Low acceptance rates in top med schools (Harvard 3.3%, Oxford ~8%)
These figures are approximate and can vary based on a number of factors, including years of experience, specific sub-specialization, location and the type of practice (private hospital, government hospital or private clinic).
4. Law
Law is intellectually demanding and widely seen as one of the hardest courses in the world due to its vast curriculum, analytical requirements, and pressure to stay updated with evolving legal systems. Law students must master constitutional, criminal, corporate, and international law while learning strong debating, drafting, and logical reasoning skills. The competitive bar exams in countries like the USA (Bar Exam pass rates ~60–70%) or India’s All India Bar Exam make entry into practice extremely tough. Success requires precision, patience, and the ability to handle immense pressure in real-world legal disputes.
Difficulty factors:
Duration: 3–5 years (LLB + bar exam prep)
Long reading hours: 12–15 per week on case law alone
National Law School of India University (NLSIU), India
University of Melbourne, Australia
Top Professions and Salaries (approx.)
Role
Salary in India
Salary Abroad (USA)
Corporate Lawyer
8 LPA – 14 LPA
85 LPA – 2.1+ Cr/yr
Criminal Lawyer
5 LPA – 15 LPA
40 LPA – 55 LPA
International Lawyer
25 LPA – 50 LPA
80 LPA – 1.2+ Cr/yr
Judge/Magistrate
6 LPA – 25 LPA
50 LPA – 3.1+ Cr/yr
Legal Consultant
18 LPA – 53+ LPA
60 LPA – 1.3+ Cr/yr
Salaries in the legal profession can vary dramatically based on the firm's prestige, the lawyer's experience, location, and the specific area of law.
5. Architecture
Architecture is not just about designing buildings but about blending art, engineering and technology making it one of the most difficult courses in the world. Students face long hours of drafting, model-making, software use (like AutoCAD and Revit) and presentations. The workload often exceeds 12–14 hours daily, with “all-nighters” becoming common to complete design projects.
The degree requires both technical expertise and creativity, making it mentally and physically draining. Additionally, the duration is longer than most bachelor’s programs, with licensing exams adding further difficulty.
Difficulty factors:
Duration: 5 years (Bachelor’s) + 2 years (Master’s)
These figures are general estimates and can fluctuate significantly based on factors such as experience, location, company size and specific skills.
6. Philosophy
Philosophy is often underestimated but ranks among the toughest courses in the world due to its demand for critical thinking, abstract reasoning, and mastery of complex theories. Students must grapple with centuries of philosophical texts, from Plato to Kant to modern thinkers, often written in highly dense and abstract language. Unlike other fields, there are no straightforward answers - every argument demands counterarguments, making it mentally exhausting. Philosophy requires excellent writing skills, patience, and the ability to think beyond conventional boundaries, which makes it uniquely challenging.
These roles are not exclusively for philosophy majors, but a background in critical thinking, ethics, and research is highly valuable for them. Salaries for a "writer/author" can be highly unpredictable, as most of them do not earn a fixed salary but rather royalties or payment per project.
7. Finance
Finance is considered one of the hardest professional fields due to the complexity of global financial markets, mathematical rigor, and constant need for precision. Students pursuing finance must master economics, statistics, investment analysis, and risk management while keeping up with volatile market trends. The workload is relentless, especially for those preparing for certifications like CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst), which has notoriously low pass rates (~40%). The pressure of handling billions of dollars in assets or corporate budgets makes it not just academically challenging but emotionally taxing as well.
Difficulty factors:
Duration: 3–6 years (degree + CFA/MBA certifications)
Heavy quantitative coursework and financial modelling
Indian Institute of Management (IIM Ahmedabad), India
Top professions & salary ranges (approx.):
Role
Salary in India
Salary Abroad (USA)
Investment Banker
12 LPA – 70 LPA
1.6 Cr – 8.3+ Cr / yr
Financial Analyst
4 LPA – 25 LPA
50 LPA – 1.25+ Cr/yr
Risk Manager
10 LPA – 35+ LPA
70 LPA – 1.2 Cr/yr
CFO (Chief Financial Officer)
30 LPA – 75+ LPA
1.1 Cr – 3.3 Cr/yr
Portfolio Manager
15 LPA – 40+ LPA
90 LPA – 1.5+ Cr/yr
These figures are general estimates and can vary significantly based on the firm's prestige, years of experience, and location.
8. Pharmacy
Pharmacy makes the list of hardest courses in the world due to the high responsibility of handling medicines and patient care. The curriculum involves deep knowledge of chemistry, biology, and pharmacology, with years of lab work and internships. Pharmacists must ensure drug safety, dosage accuracy, and compliance with strict regulations.
The long academic journey stages are 4 years of PharmD plus 1–2 years of clinical practice which makes it mentally and physically demanding. Moreover, the sector requires constant updating with new drugs and treatment methods, keeping it extremely competitive.
Difficulty factors:
Duration: 5–6 years (PharmD/PhD)
Extensive lab hours and internships
Licensing exams (NAPLEX in USA, GPhC in UK) required
Please note that these figures are general estimates and can vary significantly based on the firm's prestige, years of experience, and location.
9. Business
Business courses, especially MBAs, are among the hardest due to the cut-throat competition, workload and pressure of leadership. Top business schools like Harvard or INSEAD admit less than 10–15% of applicants, making entry itself a major challenge. Once admitted, students face case studies, group projects, and 14–16-hour workdays balancing academics with internships. The global nature of the business world also demands international exposure, cultural adaptability, and strategic thinking. The difficulty lies not just in academics but in networking, leadership, and execution under pressure.
Please be aware that these figures are general estimates and can fluctuate significantly based on factors such as experience, location, and the size and type of the company.
10. Fine Arts
Fine Arts may appear glamorous, but it is actually one of the hardest courses in the world due to the creativity, persistence, and years of practice required. Unlike structured fields, success in fine arts is subjective and often tied to recognition, making the journey unpredictable. Students spend endless hours perfecting techniques in painting, sculpture, music, or dance, often without guaranteed career stability. The physical and emotional dedication needed—along with years of training under experts—makes it a path only a few can endure successfully.
Difficulty factors:
Duration: 3–5 years (Bachelor’s) + years of practice
Parsons School of Design (part of “The New School”), USA
National Institute of Design (NID), India
Top professions & salary ranges (approx.):
Role
Salary in India
Salary Abroad (USA)
Professional Artist
17.5 LPA Avg. (Varies Widely)
49 LPA Avg. (Varies Widely)
Animator/Designer
2.5 LPA – 20+ LPA
40 LPA – 1.2 Cr+ /yr
Musician/Performer
14.5 LPA (Varies Widely)
60 LPA Avg. (Varies Widely)
Art Director
8 LPA – 25+ LPA
80 LPA – 1.6+ Cr/yr
Creative Director
15 LPA – 45+ LPA
1 Cr/yr – 1.7+ Cr/yr
Please note that salaries in creative fields can be highly variable and are heavily influenced by factors such as a person's individual talent, reputation, portfolio, and whether they work for a large company or as a freelancer.
What are the Toughest Courses by Specialization?
Even within the toughest courses in the world, some branches are considered more challenging due to depth of knowledge, workload and real-world responsibility. Here’s a breakdown of the most difficult specializations for each field:
Field
Specialization
Difficulty Factors
Engineering
• Aerospace Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Civil & Structural Engineering
Demanding Mathematics, Complex Lab Work and High accountability for public safety.
Chartered Accountancy (CA)
• Auditing & Taxation
• Corporate Finance
Requires mastering financial laws
Medicine
• Neurosurgery
• Cardiology
• Oncology
Requires decade of study, practice and training. High risk in patient care. Emotional Resilience is must.
Law
• Constitutional Law
• International Law
• Criminal Law
Requires understanding and memorizing rules, laws, provisions, articles, amendments etc
Architecture
• Urban Design
• Restoration Architecture
Complex integration of technology, sustainability, and social impact.
Philosophy
• Meta Physics
• Logic & Epistemology
Abstract and conceptual reasoning at extreme depth
Finance
• Investment Banking
• Actuarial Science
Intense mathematical models, risk calculations, Grueling work hours
Pharmacy
• Pharmacology
• Clinical Pharmacy
Intricate drug development knowledge with hands-on precision on patient safety
Business
• Management Consulting
• Entrepreneurship
High failure rate and constant financial risk
Fine Arts
• Performing Arts
• Visual Arts
Physical & Creative discipline over years. Requires originality, creativity, and public acceptance.
Toughest Exams for Toughest Courses in the World
Not only the exams are toughest because of their rigorous curriculum, lengthy duration and tight evaluations, but also due to their exams. The entrance exam is the first step which filters out talented students from bulk. Further, during studying the course or entering in more advanced one, students have to go through numerous challenging exams which tests their talent and skills.
Here are some of the most challenging exams for the hardest courses in the world:
Engineering – IIT-JEE (India), MIT Admissions (USA), GATE (India)
Business – GMAT (Global), CAT (India), GRE (for MBA abroad)
Fine Arts – NID Entrance (India), UAL Admissions (UK), Parsons Admission (USA)
These exams often have very low acceptance or pass rates, making them the first barrier that proves why these are truly the toughest courses in the world.
How to choose which Hardest courses in the world is best to study?
Choosing among the toughest courses in the world is not just about prestige, but about aligning your long-term goals, personal strengths, and lifestyle with the demands of the program. Here’s a decision checklist to help:
Assess your aptitude and interest The hardest courses demand years of commitment. For example, if you have strong analytical and mathematical skills, engineering or finance might fit you better, while strong reasoning and communication skills may align with law or philosophy.
Consider financial investment Courses like medicine or architecture often involve high tuition fees, expensive materials, and licensing costs. Always check scholarship options and calculate your return on investment.
Evaluate global geography and licensing rules Medicine and law, for instance, are highly regulated and country-specific. Earning a medical degree in India may not allow you to practice in the US without additional exams. Similarly, law degrees often restrict practice to the country of study.
Understand pass-rate and competitiveness Some toughest courses have pass rates as low as 10–15%. Chartered Accountancy and finance-related certifications, for example, demand multiple attempts for most candidates. Knowing these statistics prepares you mentally for persistence.
Check physical and mental health requirements The stress, long study hours, and workload in medicine, architecture, or engineering can take a toll on health. Consider whether you can manage the pressure while maintaining balance.
Think about exit opportunities and career flexibility Certain toughest courses lock you into one career path (e.g., medicine). Others, like business or philosophy, allow more flexibility and transitions into various roles. Pick one that matches your long-term adaptability goals.
Conclusion
The toughest courses in the world are not just academically demanding but also require years of persistence, resilience, and the right mindset. From medicine and engineering to law and chartered accountancy, each course pushes students beyond their limits with long study hours, intense competition, and high-stakes exams. Yet, these challenges are also what make them rewarding, opening doors to some of the most respected and high-paying professions globally.
Choosing the hardest course should never be about prestige alone but about aligning your skills, interests and career vision. This is where upGrad can support students - by guiding them in identifying the right fit, providing mentorship and offering resources to prepare for competitive exams and global careers. With expert advice and structured learning, students can confidently step into even the toughest academic journeys.
As expert advice mentioned, our experts are available 24x7 to assist whenever you feel you need help. Connect to our experts to get a 1:1 consultation.
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FAQs
Is B. Pharm very tough?
Yes, Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm) is considered tough because it blends biology, chemistry, and pharmacology. Students must memorize drug formulations, mechanisms, and legal regulations while handling extensive lab work. The four-year course requires precision, long study hours, and rigorous practical training to succeed.
How hard is to complete Chemical Engineering?
Chemical Engineering is one of the hardest engineering branches due to its heavy reliance on advanced mathematics, physics, and complex chemical processes. Students must master thermodynamics, process design, and plant operations, often involving real-world industry projects. The workload is intense, requiring analytical ability and practical problem-solving.
Is Course-16 in MIT toughest in the world?
Course-16, Aerospace Engineering at MIT, is indeed one of the toughest programs worldwide. With an acceptance rate below 5% and rigorous coursework covering aerodynamics, propulsion, and spacecraft systems, students face high academic pressure. It combines advanced theory with cutting-edge research, preparing graduates for NASA, SpaceX, and aviation leaders.
Is IIT-JEE more tough to crack than MIT admissions?
IIT-JEE is often seen as tougher because nearly 1.2 million students compete annually for less than 2% acceptance in IITs, compared to MIT’s ~4.7% acceptance rate. While MIT is globally elite, JEE’s sheer scale and unpredictable exam difficulty make it extremely challenging for Indian students.
What is the future of Fine Arts?
The future of Fine Arts is promising, with increasing demand in digital media, animation, advertising, and creative industries. With globalization and digital platforms, artists can now reach wider audiences. While competitive, career opportunities in design, visual arts, gaming, and entertainment continue to grow steadily worldwide.
Is Chartered Accountancy more difficult than Finance courses?
Yes, Chartered Accountancy (CA) is generally tougher than standard Finance courses due to its low pass percentage and lengthy duration. CA exams test auditing, taxation, and corporate law in detail, demanding years of consistent preparation. Finance degrees, though rigorous, have higher pass rates and structured curriculums.
What are the risks of pursuing Law courses?
Pursuing law carries risks such as long study duration, intense competition, and uncertain initial earnings. Building a reputation in legal practice takes years, and work-life balance can be difficult. Additionally, success depends heavily on analytical skills, debating ability, and adapting to evolving legal systems.
Why Engineering is considered one of the toughest?
Engineering is regarded as tough because it combines theoretical knowledge with demanding practical applications. Students must master mathematics, physics, and subject-specific skills while managing projects, internships, and lab work. Its vast syllabus, long study hours, and competitive exams make it both challenging and career-defining.
What is DBA and is it difficult to complete?
A Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is a professional doctorate focused on advanced business research and leadership. It is difficult because candidates often balance coursework, dissertations, and corporate jobs simultaneously. Success demands strong research, time management, and expertise in business strategy and organizational leadership.
What toughest courses have highest ROI?
Medicine, Engineering, and Chartered Accountancy offer some of the highest ROI among the toughest courses. Though they require years of study and tough exams, graduates often secure well-paying jobs in healthcare, technology, and finance. The combination of prestige and career stability makes them highly rewarding.
Which course has longest duration of completion?
Medicine has the longest duration to complete. In many countries, students spend 5–6 years in MBBS or equivalent, followed by internships, postgraduate specializations, and licensing exams. In total, it can take 8–12 years to become a practicing specialist doctor, making it the longest academic journey.
She is an experienced writer and journalist who has extensively covered the education sector in India and Abroad. Now helping Indian aspirants realise their foreign education dream by providing them w...
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