Updated on Sep 22, 2025 | 16 min read | 10.76K+ views
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Latest update: In 2025, 29 provincial-level regions in China have adopted the “3+1+2” model, covering 98% of all Gaokao candidates, up from partial rollouts in earlier years.
Some exams are just hard, and then there are the ones that truly push you to your limits. The toughest exams in the world don’t just check what you have studied; they test your patience, speed, and ability to stay focused under pressure.
For example, India's UPSC Civil Services Exam is one of the lowest selection exams in the world with just 1 in every 1,000 students clears it. Likewise, China's Gao Kao Exam, with more than 10 million students appearing for it each year, screens through just a few to its best universities. Other similarly cruel exams are the IIT-JEE in India, the USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination), the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Exam, the USA Bar Exam, and the GRE for admission to graduate school, all of which require superhuman levels of preparation and consistency. These tests are less impossible to pass than on the verge of it.
Whether it’s for civil services, medical entrance exams, law admissions, engineering tests, or free finance certifications, the toughest competitive exams worldwide are known for extremely low pass rates, intense preparation demands, and massive competition.
Top 10 Toughest Exams in the World 2025: Complete List & Difficulty Levels
Over 2.5 million candidates from all over the world sit for some of the most challenging competitive examinations every year through government jobs, medical studies, law, engineering, and business administration. How these exams are the world's most challenging exams is not just due to their long syllabus but also due to their very low pass percentage and tough competition.
In India, UPSC Civil Services Exam, is equally referred to as the world's toughest exam, and only 0.1% pass it. In China, more than 10 million students sit for the Gaokao Exam but accepts admission into the best universities by only roughly 1 out of every 6. Likewise, the CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) Exam is a multi-level finance qualification which is achieved after decades, with just 22% going through Level 1.
Other exams which are in the top 10 toughest exams globally are the IIT-JEE MAINS in India, the USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination), the Bar Exam in the USA, the GRE and GMAT to become eligible for admission to a graduate program, and professional exams like the Chartered Accountant (CA) Exam.
These exams need months or even years of study, strong focus, and the ability to handle pressure.
The table below shows the top 10 Toughest Exams in the World:
What makes these exams stand out is not just the large syllabus, but how few people pass. Whether it’s cracking UPSC or clearing the CFA levels, they all need deep subject knowledge, years of study, and strong mental focus.
Which country has the toughest education system in the world?
Several countries have extremely challenging education systems, but three stand out: China, South Korea, and India. These systems are tough because of high student pressure, long study hours, difficult entrance exams, and low acceptance rates at top institutions.
Here's a quick comparison of how competitive they are:
These countries make students go through intense academic pressure from school itself. Success is seen as the only option, and failure often comes with social or financial consequences. The systems are not just about intelligence, but about mental stamina and years of preparation.
Key Factors Behind the High Competition in China’s Education System
China’s system is built around the Gaokao, a 2-day national exam that decides if and where a student can go to college. It's often called the toughest high school exam in the world.
Reasons why it’s so demanding:
Gaokao is a make-or-break exam: It can decide your entire future. There's no second attempt within the same year.
12+ hour study days: Students often start preparing from middle school.
Extreme competition: With over 12 million students applying, only the top 0.1–2% get into elite universities like Tsinghua or Peking.
Limited spots at top universities: The demand is much higher than the supply, especially for Tier-1 colleges.
Parents also invest heavily in tutoring and coaching. Students face both school and family pressure, making the system even more stressful.
Key Factors Behind Student Stress in South Korea’s Education System
South Korea’s education system centers around the Suneung, a standardized college entrance test taken once a year.
Here’s what makes it intense:
High-stakes test: A single test score decides university admission, job prospects, and even marriage potential in some cases.
Long school + after-school hours: Students attend regular school and then hagwons (private academies) until late night.
Social pressure: Success is tied to family honor and social status. SKY universities (Seoul National, Korea, and Yonsei) are seen as the only path to a good life.
Mental health issues: South Korea has one of the highest youth suicide rates among developed countries, often linked to academic stress.
This culture of high achievement makes students feel constantly under pressure, with very little time for breaks or hobbies.
India’s Exam Culture: The Most Intense and Competitive in the World?
India's exam system is the most competitive in the world, fueled not just by its massive population but also by sheer numbers of entrance exams such as UPSC, IIT JEE, and NEET, and the very low pass rates making it one of the most challenging academic endeavors anywhere in the world.
JEE Advanced (IITs): ~1.9 million (for prelims), <2% selected
UPSC Civil Services: ~1 million applicants, ~0.2% success rate
Limited seats attop institutes: Only a few thousand spots for IITs, AIIMS, or civil services.
Heavy dependence on coaching: Most students attend expensive coaching centers from early high school.
Years of preparation: Students often dedicate 2–4 years to a single exam.
India’s system values memorization, speed, and accuracy under pressure. It’s not just an academic challenge, but it’s a mental and emotional one too.
Top Toughest University Entrance Exam Globally: Which One Ranks #1?
There are many tough university entrance exams around the world, but a few stand out for how intense and competitive they are. These include China's Gaokao, India's JEE Advanced, Japan's National Center Test, the UK's interviews to Oxford and Cambridge universities, and the US Ivy LeagueSAT/ACT requirements that not only examine students' knowledge about academics but also examine students' mental toughness, problem-solving abilities, and emotional strength. These exams not only test academic knowledge but also push students to their mental and emotional limits.
Below is a comparison of some of the hardest entrance exams globally:
Oxford and Cambridge Interviews: Do They Assess IQ or Mindset?
Oxford and Cambridge aren’t just checking how smart you are. They want to see how you think. Their interviews focus on:
Problem-solving – Can you think through tricky questions undoubtedly?
Curiosity – Do you care about the subject? Do you ask good follow-up questions?
Understanding – Do you know the topic well, or just memorize facts?
Staying calm – Can you handle tough questions without getting flustered?
It's not necessarily a matter of knowing each response for Oxford and Cambridge interviews, these stages being more a matter of thinking, problem-solving, and learning aloud. Being receptive to new thoughts and being inquisitive is vital, which is also vital to students who plan to know how to get into Ivy League from India.
Most Challenging Civil Services & Government Exams Across the Globe
Some government exams are known to be extremely hard, mainly because of how few people get selected, the vast syllabus, and the intense competition. These tests aren’t just about book knowledge. They also check your personality, problem-solving, and mental toughness.
For example, India’s UPSC Civil Services Exam has a success rate of less than 0.2%. The US Foreign Service Officer Test (FSOT) sees only a small fraction of applicants move past the first stage. In France, fewer than 5% of candidates crack the highly selective École Normale Supérieure entrance exam.
Here’s a comparison of some of the most difficult government or public service exams around the world:
Exam
Country
UPSC Civil Services Exam
India
Foreign Service Officer Test (FSOT)
USA
École Normale Supérieure Entrance Exam
France
CSS Exam (Central Superior Services)
Pakistan
Gaokao (for top government roles)
China
Administrative Service Exam (ENA)
France
These exams often take years of preparation, and success means access to some of the most respected jobs in the public sector.
École Normale Supérieure (ENS) Exam Difficulty: What Makes the France ENS Exam So Hard?
The entrance exam to ENS (École Normale Supérieure) is one of the most elite and demanding in Europe. It's not just an exam, it's an entire selection process:
Long preparation: Many students study in specialized “classes préparatoires” for 2–3 years before even taking the exam.
Multiple written and oral tests: Subjects like literature, physics, or philosophy are tested at a level similar to final-year college courses.
Selective process: Out of thousands who apply, only around 200 get selected each year across all programs.
What makes it really tough is the depth. It’s not about memorizing; it’s about being able to think, argue, and explain complex ideas clearly and logically, often under pressure.
FSOT Exam Difficulty: What Makes the U.S. Foreign Service Test So Hard?
The FSOT is the first step to becoming a US Foreign Service Officer, a job in the US that involves working in American embassies worldwide. It’s one of the most selective government exams in the US.
Covers a wide range: The FSOT includes topics like US history, economics, world affairs, English expression, and even basic math.
Situational judgment test: You’re given real-world diplomacy problems and asked how you’d handle them.
Personal narrative round: After clearing the test, candidates must submit personal stories that show their skills and values.
Oral assessment: The final round involves group tasks, interviews, and case studies.
Only a small number of applicants make it through all the stages each year.
Top Engineering Entrance Exams: Which One Is the Hardest?
Engineering entrance exams are known to be tough across the world, but some are far more competitive than others. From India’s JEE, which filters out only the top 1–2% of candidates, to Russia’s Unified State Exam, where scores directly decide university placements, the pressure is real.
Some global tests also test strong math foundations, like the discontinuedSAT Subject Test in Math Level 2, which was often taken by students aiming for top universities.
Here's a quick comparison of three known engineering-related exams:
Exam Name
Country
Why It's Tough
JEE Advanced
India
Requires deep understanding of Physics, Chemistry, Math
Unified State Exam (Math + Physics)
Russia
Mandatory for public university admission, wide syllabus
SAT Subject Test – Math Level 2
USA (Retired)
Advanced algebra, pre-calc, and trigonometry in 60 mins
Note: These exams are tough because they decide your future college options and demand years of focused prep.
How hard is JEE Advanced compared to other engineering tests?
JEE Advanced is one of the toughest engineering entrance exams in the world. It’s known for its complex questions and strict selection process.
Here's what makes it stand out:
Tough Question Format
The paper includes tricky MCQs, integer-based problems, and multi-concept questions that test your full understanding.
Low Selection Rate
Only the top 2.5 lakh students from JEE Main can appear, and out of them, less than 25% get a seat in IITs.
Requires Deep Concept Clarity
Students need to master Physics, Chemistry, and Math beyond the NCERT level, often using extra coaching material.
H3: What makes the Russian Unified State Exam challenging for engineers?
The Russian Unified State Exam (USE) is not just a school-leaving test, it’s also used for university admissions, including engineering.
Here’s why many find it tough:
Time Pressure and Accuracy
The questions need fast and accurate answers, especially in the Math and Physics sections.
Advanced Level Math
The Math section includes calculus, probability, and geometry that require solid school training and practice.
Language Barrier for Foreign Students
Since the exam is usually in Russian, non-native speakers face an added challenge unless they’ve mastered the language.
Is the SAT Subject Test in Math Level 2 considered tough for engineers?
Even though SAT Subject Tests are no longer available in the US, Math Level 2 remains a de facto industry standard test to evaluate quantitative and problem-solving abilities, especially for those who are planning to study abroad as prospective engineers. This test was notoriously difficult because it had advanced algebra, geometry, and pre-calculus questions and thus was a point of debate among students who were planning to get into top engineering schools.
Future engineers are now eligible to take other regular tests such as SAT, ACT, and AP Exams that usually come under the consideration of universities when it comes to admissions. Students can approach other advice on how to get into engineering's best programs from India through individualized strategies, guidebooks, and tools offered on platforms such as upGrad.
Here’s what made it challenging:
High Competition
Students taking this test were usually top scorers, aiming for elite schools —
Concept Variety
It covered algebra, geometry, trigonometry, functions, and statistics
Perfect Score Pressure
Since many scored 750+, even a few mistakes could drop your percentile a lot, making it hard to stand out.
Top Most Difficult Medical Entrance Exams in the World for 2025
Medical entrance and licensing exams across the world test not just knowledge, but endurance, decision-making, and clinical reasoning under pressure. These exams are designed to filter the best candidates from thousands of hopefuls.
For instance, the USMLE is a 3-step exam that spans years of a student’s journey, while the MCAT requires mastery in both sciences and reasoning. In the UK, international graduates face tough language and practice-based tests like PLAB and OET, and specialty board exams in countries like the U.S. and Canada come with low pass rates.
Here are some of the toughest medical exams around the world:
Why NEET 2025 is One of India’s Most High-Pressure Medical Exams
NEET (UG) is India's sole medical entrance test for admission to MBBS and BDS courses with more than 2 million candidates vying for fewer than 100,000 seats. It is a very competitive test that challenges not just academic knowledge in the subjects of Physics, Chemistry, and Biology but also testing time speed, precision, and ability to handle stress.
Aspirants who want to continue medical careers in India or want to pursue study abroad programs in medicine can be guided with systematic guidance, practice papers, and study strategy advice. Find the MBBS preparation advice and study material to medicine abroad from India and boost your NEET and other medical entrance test success rates.
Here’s why students find NEET so stressful:
Single Gateway Exam NEET is the only medical entrance test in India, so one mistake can cost a year.
Heavy Syllabus Load Questions come from deep concepts from NEET Syllabus dealing in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology from Classes 11 and 12.
Extremely High Competition In 2024, over 23 lakh students fought for just 1.1 lakh MBBS seats.
Time Pressure & Speed 180 questions in 200 minutes means you can’t afford slow thinking or mistakes. Attempting Neet (UG) Mock Tests helps in preparation strategy.
Negative Marking One wrong answer costs 1 mark, which adds to the pressure.
Cut-Off Fluctuations Even a small drop in marks can drastically affect your rank.
How complex is the UK’s MRCP for medical graduates? The MRCP (Membership of the Royal Colleges of Physicians) is a UK postgraduate medical exam known for its difficulty and global value. It’s especially tough for doctors aiming to specialize in internal medicine.
Here’s what makes MRCP so challenging:
Multi-Part Structure It has three stages: Part 1 (theory), Part 2 (clinical written), and PACES (practical exam).
Low First-Time Pass Rate Only around 45% of candidates clear Part 1 in their first try.
Global Recognition Accepted in the UK, Middle East, and Commonwealth nations, which raises its standards.
Requires NHS Experience Many fail PACES without hands-on UK hospital experience.
Time-Intensive Prep Preparing for all parts takes 2 to 3 years, often while working.
Clinical Judgment Focus It tests how well you make real-time decisions, not just theory.
Hardest Professional Exams Globally: Difficulty, Pass Rates, and Preparation Tips
Some certification exams are globally known for their extremely low pass rates, deep technical content, and multi-phase testing formats. These exams often require years of experience, intense preparation, and a strong grasp of practical knowledge and not just theory.
Here are some of the toughest global certification exams known for their difficulty:
Exam Name
Field
CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional)
Cybersecurity
CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert)
Networking & IT
USMLE(United States Medical Licensing Examination)
Both countries have a highly structured legal system, and their bar exams reflect that. The preparation spans over months and failure rates are significant, even among law graduates.
US Bar Exam:
Administered by each state (e.g., New York, California)
Tests constitutional law, criminal law, contracts, torts, etc.
Includes MBE (Multiple-choice), MEE (Essays), and MPT (Performance Test)
Pass rates: ~40–60% depending on the state
Prep time: 4–6 months minimum
UK Bar Exam (Barrister route):
Requires completion of Bar Training Course (BTC)
Followed by Bar exam and 12-month pupillage
Focus on criminal law, civil litigation, ethics, advocacy
Intense competition for pupillage slots post-qualification
Pass rates: ~35–45% for final stages
CISSP and CCIE: The Most Demanding Certifications in the IT Industry
The top highest paying IT certifications are globally recognised and notoriously difficult. They require not just theory, but proven work experience, scenario solving, and deep technical expertise.
CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional):
Offered by ISC²; globally recognised in cybersecurity
Covers 8 domains including risk management and network security
Requires 5+ years of experience in 2+ domains
3-hour adaptive exam with complex, scenario-based questions
Pass rate: ~20% globally
CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert):
Offered by Cisco; one of the toughest networking certs
Requires passing both a written exam and an 8-hour hands-on lab
Focuses on network infrastructure, security, data centre, etc.
Lab exam has <20% pass rate; many take it multiple times
Prep time: 12–18 months with practical experience
Exams That Lead to the Best Paying Jobs Around the World
Cracking certain competitive exams can open doors to jobs that pay really well around the world. These tests often lead to careers in business, finance, law, or tech and they come with big salary packages.
Here's a look at some of the most high-paying exams globally:
GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) For top MBA programs like Harvard or Wharton. Graduates from top B-schools often start with $100,000+ salaries (₹83+ lakh/year).
GRE (Graduate Record Examination) Opens paths to MS/PhD programs in top US universities. High ROI in fields like Data Science, Engineering, and AI.
CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) One of the toughest finance exams. CFA charterholders can earn ₹25–80 LPA globally, especially in investment banking or hedge funds.
CA (Chartered Accountant – India) Highly respected in India and abroad. A top CA can earn ₹15–40 LPA in India or ₹50 LPA+ abroad.
USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Exam) Required for doctors to practice in the US. Average salary for doctors is around $210,000/year (₹1.75 crore+).
Bar Exam (US/UK) Once cleared, it leads to legal practice in high-paying firms. Top US lawyers can earn over $150,000 (₹1.25 crore+) annually.
Do exams like GMAT or GRE lead to high ROI careers?
Yes, both GMAT and GRE can lead to strong returns on investment. The GMAT is mainly for MBA programs, where top graduates earn ₹80 LPA or more globally. GRE is used for MS and PhD admissions, especially in upcoming STEM fields. Those with STEM degrees often earn ₹60 LPA or more abroad, especially in the US, Canada, or Germany.
GRE → MS in CS/Data Science → FAANG jobs → ₹70–90 LPA globally
Scholarships based on high scores can reduce tuition costs by 50–100%
CFA vs CA: Career Growth and Salary Benefits Globally
CFA and CA both lead to strong salary growth, but in different ways.
CFA is best for global finance roles like investment analyst, portfolio manager, or banker. Entry-level CFA charterholders can earn ₹15–25 LPA, and senior ones go beyond ₹75 LPA.
CA (India) is ideal for taxation, audit, and finance. A fresh CA starts with ₹8–10 LPA, while experienced CAs at top firms or MNCs can earn ₹40 LPA+.
How do students prepare for the toughest exams in the world?
Students who pass the hardest exams in the world usually stick to a strict and smart study plan. These exams can take months or even years of preparation. Whether it's for medicine, law, engineering, or civil services, the key is consistency, not just intelligence.
Here’s how most students prepare:
They start early and make a long-term plan.
They follow a daily routine with fixed hours for each subject.
They study from reliable sources like textbooks, lectures, and past papers.
They take practice tests often to improve speed and accuracy.
They clear every concept instead of just memorizing.
They take care of their health with good sleep and food.
They learn from mistakes and keep improving.
Some also join coaching or study groups if they need help.
Hard exams are more about how you study than how much you study. Staying regular and focused makes the real difference.
Do toppers always rely on coaching or self-study?
Toppers don’t follow one fixed rule. Some depend on coaching, others prefer self-study. Most mix both based on what works best for them.
What toppers usually do:
Take coaching for tough subjects or a full plan (like NEET, JEE, UPSC).
Use self-study for extra practice, notes, and deep revision.
Stick to a daily schedule and stay away from distractions.
Solve past year papers to understand the question style.
Watch YouTube videos or join online classes for hard topics.
Revise every topic 2–3 times before the exam.
The key is not what method you choose as it’s only about being regular and focused.
What are the biggest mistakes students make in tough exams?
Even smart students can lose marks if they don’t plan well. Being careless or panicking ruins months of hard work.
Here are some common mistakes:
Skipping the syllabus and starting mock tests too early.
Not following a clear daily routine.
Studying late at night and sleeping less.
Avoiding revision and not going over topics again.
Rote learning instead of understanding basics.
Panicking on exam day due to lack of practice.
Poor time management in long papers like UPSC or GMAT.
Avoid these mistakes and stick to a simple, regular plan and that’s what helps most
Conclusion
Getting ready for the world’s toughest exams is never simple, but it can be done with the right habits and support. These exams don’t just check what you know. They also test how well you manage time, stay focused, and deal with pressure. Students who do well usually follow a routine and stay consistent for a long time.
From medical and engineering entrance tests to civil services and study abroad exams, each one comes with its own challenges. Some students join coaching centers, while others study on their own. Most of them use a mix of both. Solving past papers, taking mock tests, and following a plan helps them stay on track.
If you're aiming to study abroad and need to prepare for exams like the GRE, GMAT, or SAT, upGrad can guide you through the process. You’ll get expert help, personal support, and access to top global programs.Book your free 1:1 counseling session with upGrad to get started.
FAQs
What is the right age to start exam prep in India?
Most students in India start preparing in Class 10 or 11, especially for JEE, NEET, or UPSC. Early prep gives them more time to build concepts and reduce stress during actual exam years.
How do Indian parents support students during exams?
Indian parents often handle daily chores, avoid social plans, and reduce pressure during exams. Some even relocate for coaching access or better internet for online classes, showing strong emotional and practical support.
What role does school pressure play in India?
In India, school pressure is real, especially with board exams and entrance tests close together. Students often juggle school, coaching, and self-study, leading to burnout if time isn’t managed well.
Are exam prep apps better than coaching centers?
Apps offer flexibility, low cost, and self-paced learning—great for students in Tier 2 or 3 cities. But for those needing structure and doubt-solving, traditional coaching still works better. It depends on learning style.
Can students clear top exams without moving cities?
Yes, many now crack exams like NEET or UPSC without relocating. Online coaching, digital mock tests, and recorded classes have made it easier for students to prep from their hometowns.
Do exam toppers always avoid social media?
Not always. Many toppers use platforms like YouTube or Reddit for study hacks, motivation, and peer learning. The key is controlling screen time and avoiding endless scrolling, not cutting off completely.
Are group studies helpful for tough exams?
Group studies work for doubt-solving and active revision if the group is disciplined. But for deep learning or memorization-heavy topics, solo study often gives better focus and control over pace.
Is switching boards (CBSE to IB) useful for exams?
Switching boards isn’t necessary. Most Indian competitive exams are based on CBSE or state board syllabi. IB may help with critical thinking but doesn’t give an edge in India-specific entrance exams.
Do exam ranks impact college placements later?
No, not directly. Once in college, internships, GPA, and projects matter more. Ranks might boost confidence early on, but employers mostly look at recent achievements and skill-based tests, not old entrance scores.
What is the ideal study-break ratio during prep?
Most experts suggest 50 minutes of study followed by a 10-minute break. During long sessions, a 5-minute walk or stretching every hour can prevent fatigue and improve focus without wasting time.
How do rural students manage tough exam prep?
Many rely on free YouTube channels, state scholarship schemes, and recorded coaching videos. Community libraries and school teachers also play a big role in helping them compete with urban students.
What diet helps with long study hours in India?
Light, home-cooked meals like dal, rice, veggies, and curd help avoid sluggishness. Dry fruits, coconut water, and fruits like bananas or oranges boost focus. Avoid heavy fried food or excess caffeine.
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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