Chinese imperial examination system

The Chinese imperial examination system was a civil service testing program used from the Sui dynasty (6th century) to the early 20th century, aimed at selecting talented individuals for government positions. Candidates studied classic texts, philosophy, and policy, and took rigorous, nationwide exams. Success in these examinations allowed social mobility and prestige, as officials were chosen based on merit rather than family ties or wealth. The system emphasized scholarly knowledge and moral integrity, shaping China's bureaucracy and education for centuries. It was a pioneering merit-based approach that influenced other testing systems globally.