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Komal
08 May, 2025
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“A mind stretched by new experiences can never go back to its old dimensions.” – Oliver Wendell Holmes, JR.
Ever since our academic journey started, examinations have been an integral part of it. There are tests in academia that are more than just exams. They are renowned for their intellectual, persevering, and resilient struggles. These exams, both hated and admired in equal measure, act as doors to highly esteemed prizes and desired opportunities.
Every test has its challenges – from the exhausting Gaokao in China to the brain-twisting problems of Mensa. Those who dare to take tests included in the world’s toughest exam list must possess an unapologetic dedication and an unbreakable spirit.
As they say, with great difficulty comes great reward. So, let’s check some of the toughest exams in the world and the strategies to crack them.
Do you ever wonder which is the hardest exam in the world? Here is the list of the world’s toughest exams to answer your question. Let’s study the world’s toughest exam list in detail and know what they are about, their eligibility criteria, tips to crack them and so on.
| List of World’s Toughest Exams | Country | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Gaokao | China | Entrance Exam for College |
| Civil Services Exam (CSE) | India | For the Position of Administrative Posts |
| Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) | India | For admission to PG programmes & recruitment |
| Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) | Worldwide | For admission to MBA or MS Courses |
| Mensa | Worldwide | For membership in Mensa International to identify and foster human IQ |
Here’s an elaboration of each exam:
The Gaokao is the benchmark of excellence for evaluating academic ability in China. It stands at the position in the list of the world’s toughest exams. This demanding test, which takes place for all high school students, determines millions of futures.
The Gaokao is a marathon of intellectual endurance covering areas like Chinese literature, mathematics, foreign languages, etc. Success or failure in it can determine a person’s entire life path. Students spend years studying, giving up social life and leisure time to aim for a score high enough to gain admission to a prominent university.
The exam, listed as one of the most difficult, is approximately 9 hours long and often takes 2-3 days. The stakes couldn’t be greater. The competition is fierce with immense pressure.
Exam Date: 7th and 8th June every year.
Eligibility: Students who have finished their final year of high school and want to study in China can take the Gaokao.
For anyone aiming for a career in public service, passing the Civil Services Exams opens the door to a world of power and responsibilities. Aspiring civil servants from nations such as the US, the UK, and India have to pass a series of tests measuring their understanding of economics, politics, history, and administrative principles.
Every country has respective exams for civil services, like in India, we have the UPSC. Unlike India, the UK and the US do not have a single test for all the departments. There are separate exams for different departments.
In UPSC, the competition is intense, the syllabus is extensive, and the admission rates are incredibly low. Once you clear the exam, you get the opportunity to influence legislation, bring change, and further the common good.
UPSC Exam Date (Exam in India): 25th May 2025 (prelims exam)
Eligibility: There are different eligibility criteria for different countries. Applicants must be of a certain age and have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university to sit for this difficult exam.
The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering is among the toughest exams in the world for aspiring postgraduates in engineering and technology. The GATE exam is conducted in India to assess a candidate’s analytical, problem-solving, and engineering concepts. The exam includes a wide range of subjects, from computer science to mechanical engineering, and it involves thorough study and a sharp grip on foundational ideas. So you can say that this exam beats the world’s top 3 toughest exams list.
For many, success in the GATE exam opens the door to highly esteemed graduate programmes, well-paying employment, and the ability to use research and innovation.
GATE Exam Date: 1, 2, 15, 16 Feb 2025
Eligibility: Applicants must hold a master’s degree in any relevant field of science or be in the final year of a bachelor’s degree in engineering or technology.
Related: Practical tips to stay calm and focused during stressful exams
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is an essential milestone for academic success for individuals hoping to pursue graduate education in the US or any other foreign country. With sections on analytical writing, quantitative analysis, and verbal reasoning, the GRE pushes applicants to show their capability to get into higher studies, from the premium institutions.
The GRE tests mental clarity and strategic thinking due to its complex questions, time limits, and adaptive scoring system. A strong GRE score lays the road for future academic and professional success by providing access to graduate programmes at prestigious universities.
GRE Exam Date: April to May 2025 (date yet to be announced)
Eligibility: Since there are no set requirements for eligibility, candidates usually include people who are applying to graduate programmes.
Mensa is the peak of cognitive achievement for academically brilliant and intellectually curious people. The top 2% of the population in standardised intelligence tests can attend Mensa International, a high-IQ group. For applicants, the Mensa entrance exam, which consists of brain teasers and riddles, is a difficult hurdle to overcome. It distinguishes between actual geniuses and just brilliant individuals by emphasising logic, pattern identification, and creative problem-solving.
Joining Mensa grants access to a group of like-minded people who are committed to intellectual study and discovery, in addition to a sense of pride.
Mensa Exam Date: May to July
Eligibility: A person has to position in the top 2% on recognised intelligence tests, such as the Mensa exam, to be eligible for membership in Mensa.
The toughest exams in the world are not just about academic knowledge but also character, perseverance, and determination. However, the benefits are vast for those who dare to take this path. Therefore, if you ever find yourself under the challenge of passing one of these examinations, keep in mind that you, too, can overcome the impossible and be at the top.
The Gaokao exam of China is considered the toughest exam in the world. It focuses on memorisation and covers broader areas of the subjects.
As per the latest reviews, Gaokao, UPSC, GATE, GRE and Mensa are considered the top 5 toughest exams in the world.
Yes, in terms of difficulty level, UPSC is considered the toughest exam in India.
To prepare for any competitive exam, you start by creating a detailed study schedule, understanding the exam pattern, practising with mock tests, and keeping your mind refreshed.
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