Top 10 Toughest Exams in India
India is known for its extremely competitive, challenging exams at every level that pave the way for prestigious careers or institutions. The exams measure knowledge retention and acquisition, endurance, time usage, and critical thinking among prospective candidates. Most candidates have been preparing themselves for such exams for years, where seats are limited and lakhs of candidates appear for these exams every year. And the competition is tough. From getting into the civil services to getting admission into top engineering, medical, or management institutes, these are important milestones for millions of people. What makes them tough is the complex problem-solving and analytical thinking skills they demand from each student. Let's delve into the world of the toughest exams in India and what makes them.
Why are these exams the toughest?
Extensive syllabus: Most exams require candidates to master a wide range of subjects, covering topics from technical knowledge to general awareness.
High competition:
Lakhs of candidates fill out the form and compete for just a handful of seats or posts amplifying the pressure.
Multi-stage selection process: Many exams have multiple stages like prelims, mains, and interviews.
Low success rate: Only the most prepared candidates make it.
Let's take a deep look at the top 10 toughest exams in India that shape the future of thousands of ambitious individuals. Here are the top toughest exams in India explained in simple terms.
The List of Toughest Exams in India 2025
- UPSC
- IIT – JEE
- GATE
- CAT
- NEET
- NDA
- CA
- CLAT
- UGC NET
- NID
1. Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Exam
The UPSC Civil Services Exam is, without any doubt, one of the toughest exams conducted in India and perhaps one of the toughest exams in the world. Known for its rigorous examination process, the UPSC conducts national-level exams. The most notable of these exams is the Civil Services Exam. Scoring good marks in this exam provides opportunities that open doors to higher positions in the Indian public like IAS, IPS, and IFS officers. This exam assesses candidates across three rigorous stages.
UPSC CSE About 10-12 lakh aspirants sit for the UPSC exam every year, but a paltry few thousand make it through. It is indeed not easy to clear it. It's one of the toughest exams in India it has a massive syllabus, there are multiple stages involved in the selection process, and it has lots of stiff competition. The UPSC Civil Services Exam, for that matter, is rather unchallenged. Glorious in terms of the variety of syllabus and rigorous selection process, this exam demands not only knowledge but also determination, analytical skill, and passion for public service. Learn More About UsBest Place New Year Celebration
Objective: Eligibility for coveted services such as IAS, IPS, and IFS.
Challenging:Highly challenging due to the voluminous syllabus and unpredictable questions.
Steps:
Preliminary Test: MCQ type.
Main Test: Essay-type test of nine papers.
Interview: Personality test.
Success Rate: Less than 1%.
Why Challenging: Requires knowledge of multiple subjects on a high level, an analytical approach to issues, and strong writing skills.
For more information, visit theUPSC Main Website
Key Exam Details:
Exam Detail Exam Level National Frequency Annually Mode of Exam Offline Purpose Recruitment for IAS, IFS, IPS, and other civil service roles Candidate appeared 10 lakh Qualification Bachelor’s degree Language Papers English & Hindi Number of Attempts Gen(6),OBC(9) &SC/ST (Unlimited) 2. IIT – JEE (Indian Institute of Technology – Joint Entrance Examination)
JEE is found to be one of the two biggest challenges in India, in comparison with other examinations, and is a gateway to various prestigious engineering colleges located all over India. Designed by the National Testing Agency or NTA, JEE is a two-level test- JEE Main and JEE Advanced, giving the aspirants a chance to get into one of the topmost engineering colleges for admission.
JEE Main is administered twice a year and acts as the qualifying test for getting into NITs, IIITs along with other premium government institutes. Stipulated as eligibility for attempting to take the entrance test for JEE Advanced, the entry test for being considered for admissions in IITs, IISc, and RGIPT, the syllabus of this examination comprises physics, chemistry, and mathematics at a highly challenging level.
Besides getting admission to premier engineering colleges, good performers in JEE can qualify for the Siemens scholarship, which provides an opportunity to continue their education with financial assistance. Learn More About UsMake Earn Money Online
Purpose: Admission to IITs for undergraduate engineering programs.
Difficulty: Advanced-level physics, chemistry, and mathematics.
Stages:
JEE Main:Qualifying exam.
JEE Advanced: Admission to IITs.
Success Rate:Around 1%.
Why Tough: Known for conceptual questions that test problem-solving abilities rather than rote learning.
For more information visit theJEE Main Official Website
Key Details Exam
Exam Detail Exam Level JEE Main and JEE Advanced Conducted By National Testing Agency (NTA) Frequency JEE Main: Twice a year; JEE Advanced: Once a year Purpose Admission to IITs, NITs, and top engineering colleges Subjects Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics Exam Mode Offline Computer Based Marks 360 Question pattern MCQ Educational Qualification passed Class 12th Number of Attempts JEE Main(3) & JEE Advanced(2) 3. Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE)
GATE is one of the most sought-after competitive exams in India. It is the final exam for aspirants to appear after doing post-graduation in engineering. It opens doors for higher studies in premier institutes like IITs and NITs. After qualifying for GATE, students get ample opportunities for lucrative jobs in public sector undertakings (PSUs).
GATE is a national-level exam conducted every year by all the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc). It tests the candidate's knowledge about the subjects of engineering, technology, architecture, and science. The score is valid for three years and is accepted across India and abroad. The difficulty level of the exam is exceptionally high, which requires in-depth understanding and proper preparation strategy.
Purpose: Postgraduate engineering admissions and PSU recruitments.
Difficulty: Requires deep knowledge of undergraduate engineering topics
Exam Pattern
65 questions: MCQ and numerical-based answers.
duration: 3 hours time
Success Rate:Approximately 15-17%.
Why Tough:The syllabus is comprehensive and questions are application-based. There is very high competition and the need to manage time strategically to obtain a good percentile.
For more information visit theGATE Official Website
GATE Examination Highlights
Exam Detail Eligibility Qualification Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Technology or Master's level in relevant fields. Final-year students are also eligible. Conducting Body IIT/IISc (in rotation basic) Mode Computer Based Test (CBT) Duration Time 3 Hours Question Type MCQs, MSQs, and NAT (Numerical Answer Type) Total Marks 100 Marks 360 Question pattern MCQ Negative Marking only in MCQs Frequency Annually Paper Language English 4.Common Admission Test (CAT)
The Common Admission Test is a common entrance exam for admission to MBA/PGDM programs of premier business schools across India and is managed by one of the eleven Indian Institutes of Management. This national-level exam offers a limited number of seats and it tests the candidate's aptitude in areas such as verbal ability, logical reasoning, quantitative aptitude, and data interpretation.
Why Is CAT Important?
Admission to Top Colleges:Top MBA colleges accept CAT scores such as IIMs, FMS, SPJIMR, MDI, etc.
Career Opportunities:A renowned institute's MBA degree would be worth higher salaries, leadership positions, and exposure globally.
Versatility: CAT is not restricted to business graduates. Students from all academic backgrounds can appear.
Objective: To seek entry to top management institutes, including the Indian Institute of Management.
Difficulty Level: Measures quantitative aptitude, logical reasoning, and verbal ability.
Exam Pattern:
- Computer-based.
- Three sections with sectional time limits.
Why Tough:Very competitive. More than 2 lakh test-takers vie for a few hundred seats.
For more information visit theCAT Official Website
Key Features of CAT
Exam Detail Eligibility Bachelor's degree (50% marks for general, 45% for SC/ST/PWD). Final-year students can also apply. Conducting Body Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) Exam Mode Offline Computer Based Test (CBT) Duration 2 Hours (120 minutes) Total Marks 198 Purpose Admission to MBA/PGDM programs Frequency Once a year (usually in November) Paper Language English 5. NATIONAL ELIGIBILITY CUM ENTRANCE TEST(NEET)
The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test, commonly known as NEET, is a national-level entrance examination for medical, held every year by the National Testing Agency or NTA. It is a single-window entrance examination, through which students get admission to undergraduate medical courses like MBBS and BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery) along with courses in AYUSH disciplines like Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy. Even veterinary sciences provide admission based on NEET scores.
NEET is a pan-India entrance test that encompasses both government and private medical colleges. Since more than 18 lakh students apply every year, it is considered one of the toughest exams to be held in India. Millions of students can now look forward to making their medicine dream a reality by clearing this exam and NEET tests students' knowledge of Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. The syllabus followed by NEET is based on the NCERT curriculum from Classes 11 and 12.
Objective:Admission to undergraduate courses in medicine and dentistry (MBBS/BDS). Difficulty Level: Biology, Chemistry, and Physics from 10+2.
Exam Pattern
- One-day test.
- Objective-type questions.
Why So Tough:Competition is very heavy everybody needs a near-perfect score for the top colleges.
For more information visit theNEET Official Website
Key Features of NEET
Exam Detail Eligibility Class 12 students with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology Conducting National Testing Agency (NTA) Exam Mode Offline (Pen-and-Paper Based) Exam Duration 3 Hours 20 Minutes Total Marks 720 Total Questions 200 Frequency Annually 6. Chartered Accountancy (CA) Exam
The Chartered Accountancy (CA) exam is a highly regarded professional examination in India conducted by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. It is an entrance into the esteemed profession of Chartered Accountancy, which involves all fields of accounting, auditing, taxation, and financial management. CA qualification is global in nature which raises job opportunities both in the country and abroad. This course in general is ideal for students who wish to work in the financial sector or establish their accounting practice.
To become a CA one needs to pass three levels of exams they can only be CA Foundation CA Intermediate and CA Final. Knowledge here is put under test regarding all the subjects including accounting, law, and taxation. Not only has one to get through these exams but experience hands-on training as an article trainee for 3 years under the guidance of a practicing CA. It's quite a difficult course, but it does offer great career upgradations and earning potential.
Purpose: Obtain the Chartered Accountant Certificate
Difficulty: A multi-stage exam based on a very long syllabus.
Stages:
- Foundation Course
- Intermediate Course
- Final Course Passing Rate
Why Tough:Takes deep application of accounting, taxation, and auditing knowledge.
For more information visit theCA Official Website
7.National Defence Academy(NDA)
National Defence Academy is an entrance exam conducted by UPSC in India. It is the pathway for entering the officer ranks in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. This exam is held twice a year to provide opportunities for young minds to fulfill their ambitions in the armed forces by serving their country. Once shortlisted, candidates are trained sternly at NDA, Khadakvasla, Pune. Each cadet then undergoes specialized training at the respective service academies in the context of their chosen service.
It consists of two papers, Mathematics and the General Aptitude Test (GAT). Candidates also have to qualify for the Service Selection Board (SSB) interview and have to match strict medical and physical fitness parameters. NDA offers opportunities for a disciplined and rewarding career in the defense forces.
The NDA exam is held by the Services Selection Board at the national level, meant to pick up a capable lot from the country for the defense academy of the country. It is known as one of India's toughest exams that attracts a large number of aspirants. Candidates after securing class 12th and wanting to get enrolled in the army need to clear this examination.
Purpose:
The aim is to join the Indian Armed Forces as an officer.
Difficulty: It comprises a written exam and a rigorous Service Selection Board (SSB) interview.
Exam Pattern:Mathematics and General Ability Test.
Duration: 2.5 hours each.
Why Difficult: It comprises psychological assessment along with academic and physical rigors.
For more information visit theNDA Official Website
8. Common Law Admission Test (CLAT)
The Common Law Admission Test is a national-level entrance exam conducted for admission to NLUs operating under the umbrella of the National Law Universities of 22 law schools in India offering undergraduate (LL.B.) and postgraduate degrees (LL.M.). It is one of the most competitive exams for aspiring law students and is also accepted by several private law colleges and institutions. The exam, annually conducted by the Consortium of NLUs, tests candidates' aptitude and skills indispensable to a career in law.
The CLAT UG test assesses the candidates on various parameters such as the English language general knowledge and current affairs legal reasoning logical reasoning, and quantitative techniques. The CLAT PG tests for advanced legal knowledge. Open to students who have completed Class 12 or hold a bachelor's degree in law (for PG), the examination leads the student to a coveted legal education and a bright future in law, advocacy, or judicial careers.
Purpose: Admission to National Law Universities (NLUs).
Difficulty:
Tests aptitude in law, English, logical reasoning, and general knowledge.
Exam Pattern:
- 150 MCQs.
- Duration: 2 hours.
Why Tough:Requires a very good command of language and reasoning skills. Good legal knowledge is also necessary.
For more information visit theCLAT Official Website
9. National Eligibility Test (UGC NET)/h2>
UGC NET - University Grants Commission - National Eligibility Test is a highly prestigious national-level entrance exam that determines eligible candidates to become Assistant Professors and those who will get Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in Indian universities and colleges. It is conducted twice a year by NTA, a gateway for individuals who want to make their mark in education or research. A Master's degree with a minimum of 55% marks (50% for reserved categories) in the chosen subject is mandatory. UGC NET offers over 80 subjects that allow each candidate to express knowledge and aptitude for teaching in their field of study.
Quality:Eligibility for lectureship and Junior Research Fellowship
Difficulty Level:Measures expert knowledge of the chosen subject. Pattern:
Pattern:
Two papers:General Aptitude and Subject.
Duration: 3 hours.
Why Tough:Requires profound knowledge of the subject and teaching/research aptitude.
For more information visit theUGC NET Official Website
10. National Institute of Design (NID)
The National Institute of Design (NID) Entrance Exam is a national-level exam conducted to admit students into undergraduate and postgraduate design programs offered at the campuses of the National Institute of Design (NID) in Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, and Bengaluru. NID is one of the most prestigious design institutes in India, known for excellent designers across every genre of industrial, communication, and fashion design. It is a very competitive exam among thousands of aspirants who wish to join this stream every year.
The NID Entrance Exam has two stages to it:
Stage 1: NID Design Aptitude Test, abbreviated as DAT
This is a written test that evaluates the abilities of students on their creativity, problem-solving skills, and design-thinking skills. This is in the form of Multiple Choice Questions or subjective answers and drawing exercises.
Stage 2:NID Studio Test and Interview
The candidates shortlisted for the first stage are being considered to appear for the Studio Test. Here, they have to perform several practical tests that demonstrate their design skills. In the personal interview, motivations, creativity, and general design potential are assessed for the candidate.
The NID exam focuses on the practical aspects of creativity, analytical skills, and design thinking, thus making it an ideal plank for designers, coming to know about ways to become professional designers.
For more information visit theNID Official Website
