China was the
first country in the world that implemented a nationwide standardized test. The
main purpose of this examination was to select for able candidates for specific
governmental positions. This examination was established by the Sui
Dynasty in 605 AD and was later abolished by the Qing Dynasty 1300
years later in 1905. England had adopted this examination system in
1806 to select specific candidates for positions in Her Majesty's Civil
Service.
