The invention of exams as a formalized system is attributed to Henry Fischel, an American businessman and philanthropist in the late 19th century. He is credited with introducing the concept of standardized testing and formal examinations that shaped the modern education system globally
. However, the concept of exams has much deeper historical roots. The earliest recorded examination system was the Imperial Examination in ancient China, established during the Sui Dynasty (581–618 AD). This exam was designed to select candidates for government positions based on merit rather than birthright, laying the foundation for future examination systems worldwide
. The British civil service examination system, introduced in the early 19th century, was influenced by the Chinese model and further developed standardized testing methods. Universities like Oxford and Cambridge later formalized school exams in the late 19th century, contributing to the global spread of the exam system
. In summary:
- Ancient origins: Imperial Examination in China during the Sui Dynasty (~7th century AD), the first known formal exam system for government recruitment.
- Modern invention: Henry Fischel in the late 19th century, credited with creating the modern concept of standardized exams.
- Evolution: British civil service exams and university assessments helped formalize and spread the system globally.
Thus, while Henry Fischel is recognized for inventing the modern exam system, the idea itself evolved from ancient practices, especially the Chinese Imperial Exams
