In India, individuals who aspire to achieve success in their chosen fields must undergo arduous examinations in order to secure coveted positions in esteemed institutions and professions. The competitive exams in India hold immense significance as they determine the academic and professional paths of millions of ambitious individuals. The educational landscape of the country is characterized by a plethora of rigorous examinations that serve as gateways to prestigious institutions and lucrative careers.
Although cracking government exams can be a daunting and demanding task, it is important to remember that anything worth achieving requires hard work and dedication. Countless candidates invest years of their lives in preparing for these highly competitive exams, all in the hopes of securing one of the limited number of vacancies available. India is renowned for its rigorous and fiercely competitive education system, where examinations play a pivotal role in shaping the future of aspiring candidates. These exams assess candidates’ aptitude, knowledge, quantitative ability, and language proficiency, serving as comprehensive evaluations of their capabilities.
Lists of Top 10 Toughest Exams in India
- UPSC Civil Services Exam
- IIT JEE
- Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE)
- CAT (Common Admission Test)
- National Defence Academy (NDA)
- Chartered Accountant (CA)
- Common-Law Admission Test (CLAT)
- UGC NET
- National Eligibility Entrance Test (NEET)
- National Institute of Design Entrance Exam
1. UPSC Civil Services Exam
The UPSC Civil Services Examination is an esteemed and highly competitive exam in India, organized annually by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). It acts as a gateway to recruit candidates for prestigious administrative services such as the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), and Indian Foreign Service (IFS), among others. The exam comprises three stages – Preliminary, Mains, and Interview. The Preliminary stage evaluates candidates on general studies and aptitude, while the Mains stage delves deeper into subjects like history, geography, economics, and governance. The interview stage assesses the candidate’s personality, leadership qualities, and communication skills. Clearing the UPSC Civil Services Exam not only opens doors to a career in public service but also provides an opportunity to make significant contributions to the nation’s governance and development.
- Exam type: National level
- Exam Frequency: Annually
- Exam Mode: Offline
- No. of Candidate appear – Around 10 Lakh
- Official website: https://upsc.gov.in/
2. IIT JEE
The IIT JEE, or Joint Entrance Examination, is a highly competitive and demanding test in India that serves as the main pathway for entry into the prestigious Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). Divided into two stages – JEE-Main and JEE-Advanced – this examination assesses candidates on their knowledge of Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. JEE-Main serves as the initial round of screening, with top scorers progressing to JEE-Advanced, which ultimately determines admission to the IITs. Renowned for its challenging nature, the IIT JEE not only requires academic excellence but also strong problem-solving abilities and the capacity to perform well under pressure. Achieving success in the IIT JEE provides access to top-tier education and promising career prospects, establishing it as a symbol of excellence in the engineering field in India.
- Exam type: National level
- Exam frequency: Twice a year (January and April)
- Exam mode: Computer Based Test
- No. of Candidate appear – Around 6 Lakh
- Official website: https://jeemain.nta.nic.in/
3. Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE)
The GATE exam, held annually in India, is a thorough assessment designed for engineering and science graduates. It is a crucial requirement for admission into esteemed postgraduate programs like M.E., M.Tech, and Ph.D. at institutions such as the IITs and IISc. Apart from academic purposes, GATE scores are commonly used by both public and private sector organizations for recruitment. The examination covers a broad spectrum of engineering and science topics, evaluating candidates on their grasp of fundamental principles and problem-solving abilities. GATE represents a significant achievement for individuals aiming to pursue advanced studies and make contributions to research and innovation in their respective fields.
- Exam type: National level
- Exam frequency: Once a year
- Exam mode: Online
- No. of Candidate appear – 7 Lakh approx.
- Official website: https://gate2024.iisc.ac.in/
4. CAT (Common Admission Test)
The Common Admission Test (CAT) is an esteemed and standardized examination in India that is highly competitive. It serves as a primary criterion for admission to postgraduate management programs, including those offered by the prestigious Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). CAT is renowned for its rigorous nature, as it evaluates candidates’ quantitative, verbal, and analytical abilities. This annual assessment aims to gauge a candidate’s aptitude and preparedness for the demanding business management environment. Typically comprising multiple-choice questions, CAT success plays a vital role in securing admission to the country’s top business schools. Aspiring management professionals dedicate significant effort to excel in CAT, recognizing its pivotal role in shaping their academic and professional future in the field of business and management.
- Exam type: National level, MBA entrance exam
- Exam frequency: Annually
- Exam mode: Online
- No. of Candidate appear – 2-2.5 Lakh approx.
- Official website: https://iimcat.ac.in/
5. National Defence Academy (NDA)
The NDA examination, conducted by the UPSC, is a highly esteemed and challenging exam in India that serves as a pathway for individuals aspiring to become officers in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. Held biannually, successful candidates undergo an intensive three-year training program at the NDA campus in Khadakwasla, Pune. This examination evaluates candidates on their knowledge in mathematics, English, and general awareness, assessing their suitability for a military career. Those who are selected go through a rigorous training regime that emphasizes not only academic excellence but also the development of discipline, leadership skills, and physical fitness. Completion of the NDA program opens doors to a promising career as a commissioned officer in the Indian Armed Forces, making it a highly coveted opportunity for the country’s young generation.
- Exam Level – National Level
- Mode of Exam – Offline
- No. of Candidate appear – Around 10 Lakh
- Official website: https://nda.nic.in/
6. Chartered Accountant (CA)
The Chartered Accountant (CA) examination is a demanding and esteemed assessment for individuals who aspire to become certified professionals in the realm of accounting and finance. Administered by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), the CA examination is divided into three levels: Foundation, Intermediate, and Final. The comprehensive curriculum encompasses a wide range of subjects, including accounting, taxation, auditing, financial management, and business laws. Candidates are required to undergo a structured training program, which includes practical experience, before they can attempt the exams. Achieving success in the CA examinations not only grants individuals the prestigious CA designation, but also opens up a plethora of career opportunities in fields such as auditing, taxation, consultancy, and financial management. The CA examination holds international recognition, thereby making chartered accountants highly sought after for their expertise in financial matters and adherence to ethical standards within the business and financial sectors.
- Exam Level – National Level
- Mode of Exam – Offline
- No. of Candidate appear – 90,000 approx.
- Official website: https://www.icai.org/
7. Common-Law Admission Test (CLAT)
The Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) is an entrance examination conducted at the national level in India. It is specifically designed for individuals who wish to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate law programs offered by various national law universities and other institutions. The CLAT evaluates candidates based on their aptitude in several areas, including English, general knowledge, legal reasoning, logical reasoning, and mathematics. This examination serves as a comprehensive assessment tool for students who aspire to build a career in the field of law. By following a standardized format, the CLAT ensures a fair and transparent admission process, enabling law aspirants to compete on a national level for highly sought-after seats in prestigious law schools. Achieving a successful performance in the CLAT exam is a crucial factor in gaining admission to some of the most esteemed law institutions in the country, making it an essential step for individuals pursuing a career in the legal profession.
- Exam type – National Level
- Frequency of Exam – Twice a year
- Mode of Exam – Offline
- No. of Candidate appear – 60,000 approx.
- Official website: https://consortiumofnlus.ac.in
8. UGC NET
The UGC NET, also known as the University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test, is a significant examination in India that aims to evaluate the eligibility of candidates for the position of Assistant Professor and to grant Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in various fields. Administered by the University Grants Commission (UGC), this test assesses the candidates’ proficiency in specific subjects, encompassing humanities, social sciences, and sciences. UGC NET is conducted biannually and comprises two papers. The first paper focuses on teaching and research aptitude, while the second paper delves into the chosen subject of specialization. Qualifying in UGC NET provides individuals with opportunities to pursue a career in academia or research, thereby contributing to the progress of knowledge and education in their respective domains. This examination plays a pivotal role in upholding high standards in higher education and research institutions throughout the country.
- Exam type – National Level
- Frequency of Exam – Twice a year
- Mode of Exam – Online
- No. of Candidate appear – Around 5 Lakh
- Official website: https://ugcnet.nta.nic.in/
9. National Eligibility Entrance Test (NEET)
The National Eligibility Entrance Test (NEET) holds great significance in India as it serves as the gateway for admission into undergraduate medical and dental programs offered by various colleges across the nation. Administered by the National Testing Agency (NTA), NEET assesses candidates’ proficiency in subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. This examination has replaced numerous state-level and institution-specific medical entrance tests, thereby simplifying the admission process for aspiring medical students. NEET plays a crucial role in the lives of students who aspire to pursue a career in the medical field, as success in this highly competitive test is imperative for securing admission into esteemed medical colleges and universities in India. The standardized nature of NEET ensures a fair and transparent selection process, providing equal opportunities to all students aspiring to become medical professionals.
- Exam type – National Level
- Frequency of Exam – Once a year
- Mode of Exam – Online
- No. of Candidate appear – Around 18 Lakh
- Official website: https://neet.nta.nic.in/
10. National Institute of Design Entrance Exam
The National Institute of Design Entrance Exam (NID DAT) holds a prestigious position in India as it serves as a gateway for aspiring designers who wish to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate design programs at the esteemed National Institute of Design (NID) campuses. NID is widely recognized for its strong focus on fostering creativity, innovation, and design thinking. NID DAT assesses candidates based on their critical thinking abilities, problem-solving skills, and their ability to demonstrate a keen sense of aesthetics. The examination consists of two stages: the Prelims, which includes a written test to evaluate design aptitude, and the Mains, which involves studio tests and interviews. NID DAT plays a crucial role in identifying and nurturing talented designers who make significant contributions to various fields such as industrial design, communication design, and textile design, among others. Achieving success in this examination not only provides access to a world-class design education but also paves the way for a fulfilling career in the creative industry.
- Exam type – National Level
- Frequency of Exam – Once a year
- Mode of Exam – Online
- No. of Candidate appear – 18 Lakh
- Official website: https://admissions.nid.edu/
Tips to crack the Toughest Exams
Cracking challenging examinations necessitates a comprehensive and strategic approach. Here are several general tactics that can be implemented across various competitive exams in India:
- Understand the Examination Pattern: Acquaint yourself with the examination pattern, encompassing the number of sections, marking scheme, and question types. Analyze previous years’ question papers to identify patterns and prioritize topics.
- Develop a Realistic Study Plan: Construct a well-organized study plan that encompasses all subjects and topics. Allocate specific time slots for each subject based on your strengths and weaknesses. Ensure that breaks are incorporated for relaxation and rejuvenation.
- Give Priority to Topics: Identify topics with high weightage and accord them priority during your preparation. Focus on strengthening your weaknesses while maintaining proficiency in your strong areas.
- Utilize High-Quality Study Material: Select reputable study materials, textbooks, and reference materials. Consider utilizing online resources, video lectures, and supplementary study aids to enhance your understanding.
- Consistent Revision: Regularly revise what you have learned to reinforce concepts and improve retention. Create summary notes or flashcards for quick review.
- Mock Tests and Practice Papers: Take regular mock tests to simulate exam conditions and enhance time management skills. Analyze your performance in mock tests to identify areas for improvement.
- Time Management: Develop effective time management skills to ensure that you complete the entire paper within the allotted time during the actual exam. Practice solving questions within the stipulated time frames.
- Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a balanced and healthy lifestyle, including adequate sleep, exercise, and proper nutrition. Manage stress through relaxation techniques, meditation, or engaging in hobbies.
- Stay Informed and Updated: Stay updated on current affairs, particularly for exams that include a general awareness section. Follow relevant news sources, magazines, or online platforms to stay well-informed.
- Seek Guidance and Support: Consider enrolling in coaching classes or online courses to receive expert guidance and support. Connect with peers or mentors to discuss doubts and share insights.
- Stay Positive and Motivated: Maintain a positive outlook and have faith in your skills. Acknowledge small achievements as you progress and keep yourself inspired during the preparation phase.
Keep in mind that every test presents its own obstacles, so customize your approach to suit the demands of the exam you’re getting ready for. Furthermore, adjust your study plan according to your individual learning methods and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the toughest exam in India?
UPSC Civil Service exam is widely regarded as the toughest exams in India. It acts as a gateway to recruit candidates for prestigious administrative services such as the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), and Indian Foreign Service (IFS), among others.
Which is the second toughest exam in India?
The Joint Entrance Examination (JEE-Advanced) is the second toughest exams in India. It is the gateway for admission to the prestigious Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs).
What are top 3 toughest exams in India?
Top 3 toughest exams in India include the UPSC Civil Services Examination for recruitment into the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and other government services, second one is the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE-Advanced) for admission to the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), and last one is the GATE exam for the admission into esteemed postgraduate programs like M.E., M.Tech, and Ph.D. at institutions such as the IITs and IISc
Why UPSC exam is considered as the toughest exam in India?
The UPSC Civil Services Examination poses a significant challenge because of its broad curriculum, encompassing disciplines such as history, geography, economics, and current events. The examination consists of three phases – Preliminary, Mains, and Interview – necessitating thorough preparation, analytical skills, and a thorough grasp of various subjects.
Why JEE-Advanced is considered as the second toughest exam in India?
The JEE-Advanced is renowned for its rigorous difficulty level, assessing candidates on their analytical and problem-solving abilities in the fields of physics, chemistry, and mathematics. Achieving success in JEE-Advanced necessitates a deep comprehension of the subjects and the capacity to utilize knowledge to tackle intricate problems.
Which is the toughest exam in the world?
Gaokao is the toughest exam in the world. It serves as China’s standardized test for college admissions, renowned for its intense competition as millions of students vie for a chance to secure a spot in universities with limited capacity.