The Imperial Exam

The Qing government used the imperial exam to choose officials. Students studied for years, memorizing classic texts. During the exam, they were locked alone in tiny rooms for days, with only food and writing tools.

Only a very small percentage passed. Passing meant a government job and high status. Even taking the exam was very expensive, and some poor families went into debt or bankruptcy to support one student’s attempt. This system helped bring smart people into government, but it also created pressure and inequality.