The correct answer is C)It was based on if a person passed an exam.
Explanation
The Chinese imperial examination system was a state practice of imperial China that was used from the year 606 to the year 1905, in which tests were conducted in different fields to the emperor candidates, this test had the only objective of selecting the best to serve as state officials. These were considered an easy way of social ascent. Among the exams were the prefecture exam, the proficiency exam, the province exam, the capital exam, the palace exam, and the unofficial exams. So, the correct answer is C)It was based on if a person passed an exam.