Imperial examination system

Timeline

1. 960–1000Eastern Capital Kaifeng Prefecture · HenanEmperors Taizu and Taizong of Song expanded imperial examination quotas, weakened aristocratic power, and made examination rather than recommendation the main path to office.
2. 973–1100Territory of the two Song dynasties · ChinaThe palace examination system was established, with the emperor personally examining jinshi; anti-cheating measures such as anonymized papers, transcription, sealing of the examination compound, and separate-head examinations enhanced the fairness of the examinations.
3. 1127–1279Lin'an Prefecture · ZhejiangThe Southern Song rebuilt the examination hall in Lin'an, continuing the three-level examination system; the imperial examination remained the core channel for scholars to enter office, with intake maintained at a high level.