This interesting information was sent to me by Elwing, who found this information while doing research for a project on Ancient China. Arigato, Elwing!! ^_^ I hope to find this an interesting as I did, and maybe you'll have a little more appreciation for our little Chiriko!
There were three exams.
The first one was the district exam. The candidates were confined to a small cubicle for one day and one night. They had to compose two essays and one poem in the old literary style. They were judged on their calligraphy and understanding of the classics. Only about 1% passed and were awarded the title of "Budding Genius".
The second one was provincial exam. This consisted of three sessions, each lasting three days, and the candidates were sealed inside cells for the entire duration. In this examination, the candidate had to compose thirteen essays written in literary style, on topics selected from the classics, and a poem containing eight cuplets. The ordeal was so severe it wasn't unheard of for a candidate to die in his cell from the extreme physical and mental strain. Again, only about 1% passed and received the title of "Elevated Man".
The third one was the national exam. This was one three-day session. The candidates had to write essays and poems, in the literary style of the old classics, which dealt with current political problems. Again, only about 1% passed and were awarded the title of "Achieved Scholar".
Then these Achieved Scholars had to write another examination to rank them. The three highest rankings were also given special titles. The first was called "Model Scholar of the Land". He could expect to rise high in the government and would even be elligable to marry a princess. The second was called "Proclamation Eye" and the third received the additional title of "Visitation Flower".
And you thought finals were tough! ^_^
There's even more info on the Chiriko at the Shrine to the Almighty Chicken of Doom! So check it out!