Top 10 Toughest Exams in the World in 2026

Some exams are known to be so difficult that even the smartest students feel nervous about them. The Top 10 toughest exams in the world are famous for their low pass rates, complex questions, and intense competition. These tests often decide careers, future opportunities, and life-changing paths.

From engineering and medicine to law and civil services, these exams test not just knowledge but also patience, discipline, and mental strength. The toughest exams in the world are designed to filter the best candidates from millions of applicants, making success feel like a huge achievement. In this blog, you’ll see which exams are considered the toughest and why they are so challenging.

Top 10 Toughest Exams in the World 2026

What are the toughest exams in the world? Notably, the toughest exam in the world as per the Guinness book is the CFA exam. Discover which countries have the hardest exams and what it takes to succeed in the following table:

Also Read: Exams to Study Abroad

1. Gaokao (China)

The Gaokao is often called the toughest exam in the world. Students prepare for many years because the exam decides which university they can enter. The competition is extreme, with millions of students fighting for limited seats. Getting a top score can completely change a student’s future in China.

2. Joint Entrance Examination (JEE Advanced) - India

JEE Advanced is one of the toughest exams in the world for engineering. It tests deep concepts in physics, chemistry, and mathematics with tricky problem-solving questions. Only top students from JEE Main can attempt it, which already makes it competitive. Cracking JEE Advanced can get you into the IITs, which are among the best engineering institutes.

3. UPSC Civil Services Exam - India

The UPSC Civil Services Exam selects IAS, IPS, and other top government officers. It has three stages and a huge syllabus covering many subjects. The selection rate is very low, so the competition is intense. Many candidates spend years preparing for this exam.

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4. All Souls Prize Fellowship Exam - UK

This is one of the most elite academic exams at Oxford University. Only a few candidates are selected each year, and the exam tests deep thinking and original ideas. It is open to Oxford graduates and postgraduates only. Winning this fellowship is considered a huge academic honour.

5. USMLE - United States

USMLE is one of the top 5 toughest exam in world. It is required for doctors who want to practise medicine in the USA. It has three steps that test basic science, clinical knowledge, and real medical decision-making. The exams are long and mentally exhausting. Even though many pass, the level of detail makes it very tough.

6. Master Sommelier Diploma Exam

This exam is for people who want to become top wine experts. It tests theory, blind tasting, and practical service skills. Only a small number of candidates pass each year. It is considered one of the hardest certification exams in hospitality.

7. Chartered Accountant (CA) Exams - India

The CA exams are famous for their difficulty and low pass rates. Students study accounting, taxation, auditing, and finance in detail. The course has three levels and can take several years to complete. Passing CA opens doors to high-paying finance careers.

Check Out: ACCA vs CA

8. Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE)

CCIE is one of the highest-level certifications in networking. It includes a tough written exam and an 8-hour lab test. The lab exam tests real-world networking skills under pressure. IT professionals consider CCIE a badge of excellence.

9. Mensa International Test

The Mensa test is for people with very high intelligence. Only those in the top 2% of IQ scores can join Mensa. The test includes logic, patterns, and reasoning questions. It is short but very challenging.

10. Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)

The CFA program is one of the hardest finance certifications in the world. It has three levels covering ethics, investments, and portfolio management. Candidates often study hundreds of hours for each level. Passing all levels can take several years.

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Toughest Medical Exam in the World: Top 5 Toughest Medical Exams

Aspiring to become a medical professional involves navigating some of the tough exams in the world. Here's a look at the top 5 toughest medical exams in the world, renowned for their rigorous standards and challenging content, testing the limits of even the most dedicated students.

Also Read: Top Medical Colleges in the World

Tips to Crack the Toughest Exams in the World

If you plan to attempt one of the tough exams in the world, now is the time to organize your preparation period accordingly. Before diving into your study sessions, it's crucial to understand how to embark on this exciting journey. Check out the exam preparation tips below:

1. Arrange Your Study Space: Ensure you have a conducive study space before starting your preparation. Opt for a room with proper lighting and airflow to maintain positivity and motivation while tackling the top 10 toughest exams in the world.
2. Familiarize Yourself with the Exam: Understand the exam pattern, including the duration, sections, types of questions, and other essential details, whether you're preparing for the toughest medical exam in the world or any other challenging test.
3. Prepare a Timetable: Drafting a timetable can help track your progress and stay motivated. It ensures you cover all portions systematically, essential for conquering the toughest exams in the world.
4. Practice Note Making: Making notes aids memory retention and is beneficial during the revision process.
5. Use Maps, Flow Charts, and Diagrams: Visual aids like maps and flowcharts help remember concepts and ideas, crucial for mastering complex subjects in the toughest medical exam in the world.
6. Attempt Previous Year's Question Papers, Mock Tests, and Sample Papers: Solving old question papers familiarizes you with the exam pattern and question types, vital for the toughest exams in the world.
7. Understand Your Strengths and Weaknesses: Identify your strong and weak points through mock tests and work on the difficult areas separately.
8. Take Adequate Breaks: Balance your study plan with breaks to avoid burnout. Short breaks can restore your energy and keep you focused.
9. Start Your Revisions Early: Allocate time for revisions to go through the entire syllabus and remember all critical points. Use your study notes and flowcharts for effective revisions, especially for the toughest medical exam in the world.

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