Bartholomew Fair Daily Home

Introduction
About us
Career
Getting in
Officials

Preparing for the examination

It is necessary to study many years in order to sit for the Civil Service exam. The average age for taking the exam is 35 or 36. All have studied since they were young boys. As such, we suggest that you enroll your son in school at the earliest possible age. Be sure he receives instruction in the following works for boys:

The Three Character Primer, so that he may learn the written language

The Classic of Filial Piety, so that he may be introduced to the basics of moral and political philosophy

Admonitions for the Young and Ignorant, to instruct him on upright behavior, the correct approach to study, and other important guidance for youth

After he completes his primary schooling, he must embark on the study of calligraphy and composition, and the memorization of the classics of Chinese history and poetry. He must also master the principles of Confucian thought, focusing chiefly on the Five Classics, for these works are the basis of all political, social, and moral wisdom.

About the Civil Service examination
Preparing for the examination
Other pathways to the Civil Service