It is optional for students to undertake it during the final year of primary school (Grade 5; usually aged 9–10).
Based on the results of the exam, students could transfer to prominent national schools.
Under this initiative, the government established Madhya Maha Vidyalayas (MMV - Central Colleges) that were scattered around the island.
Source: Ministry of Education, 2021[2] In recent years the exam has become extremely competitive, therefore many claim that it puts unnecessary pressure on students at an early age.
This exam is now being used as a tool for Political leaders in Sri Lanka to neglect the development of rural schools.