Top 10 Toughest Exam in World
Competitive examinations shape careers, futures, and sometimes entire lives. Around the globe, millions of students prepare relentlessly for exams that demand not only intelligence but also discipline, patience, and mental strength. Some exams stand apart because of their extremely low success rate, massive syllabus, and intense pressure. In this detailed guide by FirstEdwise (Best Education Consultancy in India) explore the Top 10 Toughest Exam in World and explain why cracking them is considered a remarkable achievement.
What Makes an Exam the Toughest in the World?
Before discussing the Top 10 Toughest Exam in World, it is essential to understand what truly defines exam difficulty. Several interconnected factors determine toughness.
Firstly, a vast and complex syllabus increases preparation time significantly. Secondly, extremely low pass percentages create intense competition. Moreover, exams with multiple stages test consistency over several years. Additionally, high psychological pressure makes performance even harder.
Furthermore, limited attempts and strict evaluation standards raise the stakes. As a result, only a small fraction of aspirants succeed. Therefore, these factors together define the Top 10 Toughest Exam in World.
Top 10 Toughest Exam in World
Below is a carefully curated list based on competition level, success rate, syllabus depth, and global recognition.
1. UPSC Civil Services Examination (India)
The UPSC Civil Services Examination consistently ranks at the top of the Top 10 Toughest Exam in World list. Conducted by the Union Public Service Commission, this exam selects IAS, IPS, and IFS officers.
Firstly, the exam has three demanding stages—Prelims, Mains, and Interview. Moreover, the syllabus covers history, polity, economy, ethics, and current affairs. Additionally, the success rate remains below 0.2% every year.
Furthermore, candidates compete against lakhs of aspirants. As a result, UPSC demands years of disciplined preparation. Therefore, it rightfully earns its place among the Top 10 Toughest Exam in World.
2. Gaokao Exam (China)
The Gaokao exam is China’s national college entrance examination and a crucial part of the Top 10 Toughest Exam in World. Every year, over 10 million students appear for this exam.
Firstly, the exam determines admission to top Chinese universities. Moreover, students prepare for it throughout their school life. Additionally, family and societal pressure significantly increases stress levels.
Furthermore, even a single mark can change a student’s future. Therefore, Gaokao is widely considered one of the Top 10 Toughest Exam in World.
3. IIT-JEE Advanced (India)
IIT-JEE Advanced is another Indian exam that features prominently in the Top 10 Toughest Exam in World. It serves as the gateway to prestigious IITs.
Firstly, the exam tests advanced problem-solving skills in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Moreover, only top JEE Main candidates qualify for this stage. Additionally, the selection ratio remains extremely low.
Furthermore, conceptual clarity matters more than memorization. As a result, IIT-JEE Advanced continues to dominate the Top 10 Toughest Exam in World rankings.
4. CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) Exam
The CFA exam is globally recognized and firmly positioned in the Top 10 Toughest Exam in World. Conducted by the CFA Institute, it includes three levels.
Firstly, candidates must study finance, economics, ethics, and portfolio management. Moreover, each level requires nearly 300 hours of preparation. Additionally, pass rates remain consistently low.
Furthermore, most candidates take 4–5 years to complete all levels. Therefore, CFA earns its place in the Top 10 Toughest Exam in World.
5. All Souls Prize Fellowship Exam (Oxford University)
This prestigious fellowship exam is one of the most unique entries in the Top 10 Toughest Exam in World. Conducted by Oxford University, it tests extraordinary intellectual ability.
Firstly, candidates write essays without prior topic knowledge. Moreover, questions demand original thinking and philosophical depth. Additionally, only one or two candidates get selected annually.
Furthermore, no formal syllabus exists. Therefore, the unpredictability makes it one of the Top 10 Toughest Exam in World.
6. USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination)
USMLE is mandatory for doctors wishing to practice in the United States. Naturally, it belongs in the Top 10 Toughest Exam in World.
Firstly, the exam has three rigorous steps. Moreover, it tests medical knowledge, clinical skills, and decision-making. Additionally, international students face extra challenges.
Furthermore, preparation often spans several years. As a result, USMLE secures its position among the Top 10 Toughest Exam in World.
7. Mensa Admission Test
The Mensa Admission Test is different yet equally demanding. It measures IQ and places itself among the Top 10 Toughest Exam in World.
Firstly, the exam evaluates logical reasoning under time pressure. Moreover, candidates must score in the top 2% globally. Additionally, no preparation guarantees success.
Furthermore, natural aptitude plays a major role. Therefore, Mensa remains a distinct entry in the Top 10 Toughest Exam in World.
8. CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert)
CCIE is one of the toughest technical certifications globally. Hence, it ranks among the Top 10 Toughest Exam in World.
Firstly, the exam includes a demanding written test and an 8-hour lab exam. Moreover, candidates must solve real-world networking problems. Additionally, failure rates remain high.
Furthermore, extensive hands-on experience is required. Therefore, CCIE rightfully joins the Top 10 Toughest Exam in World.
9. GATE Exam (India)
The Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering, or GATE, is another Indian exam featured in the Top 10 Toughest Exam in World.
Firstly, GATE tests engineering concepts at a deep level. Moreover, it opens doors to top institutes and PSU jobs. Additionally, intense competition reduces success rates.
Furthermore, conceptual accuracy determines rank. As a result, GATE continues to feature among the Top 10 Toughest Exam in World.
10. Master Sommelier Diploma Exam
This exam evaluates wine expertise and ranks among the Top 10 Toughest Exam in World.
Firstly, candidates must master theory, tasting, and service skills. Moreover, the pass percentage remains below 5%. Additionally, years of experience are necessary.
Furthermore, sensory precision is critical. Therefore, the Master Sommelier exam completes the Top 10 Toughest Exam in World list.
Comparison Table of the Toughest Exams in the World
A comparison highlights why these exams dominate the Top 10 Toughest Exam in World:
UPSC – India – <0.2% pass rate
Gaokao – China – Millions of candidates
IIT-JEE Advanced – India – Extreme conceptual difficulty
CFA – Global – Multi-year commitment
All Souls Fellowship – UK – Minimal selection
USMLE – USA – Clinical complexity
Mensa Test – Global – IQ-based
CCIE – Global – Practical expertise
GATE – India – Technical depth
Master Sommelier – Global – Skill precision
Why Students Attempt These Tough Exams
Despite the difficulty, aspirants pursue the Top 10 Toughest Exam in World for strong reasons. Firstly, these exams offer prestige and respect. Moreover, they unlock exceptional career growth. Additionally, financial stability motivates candidates.
Furthermore, many aspirants seek personal fulfillment. Therefore, success in the Top 10 Toughest Exam in World represents discipline and excellence.
How to Prepare for the Toughest Exams in the World
Preparation for the Top 10 Toughest Exam in World requires strategy. Firstly, aspirants must create a long-term plan. Moreover, consistent revision strengthens retention. Additionally, mock tests improve performance.
Furthermore, mental health plays a crucial role. Therefore, balanced preparation ensures success in the Top 10 Toughest Exam in World.
FAQs on the Toughest Exams in the World
Which is the toughest exam in the world?
UPSC Civil Services Examination is often considered the toughest due to its low success rate and vast syllabus.
Is UPSC tougher than IIT-JEE?
Both are challenging, but UPSC tests broader skills over a longer duration.
How many hours should one study?
Most toppers recommend 6–10 focused hours daily, depending on the exam.
Conclusion
The Top 10 Toughest Exam in World represent the highest level of academic and professional challenge. These exams test intelligence, endurance, and resilience. However, with determination and smart preparation, success becomes possible.
At FirstEdwise (Best Career Counselling Consultancy in India), we believe every challenge carries an opportunity. Therefore, aim high, prepare wisely, and never stop learning.