Unlike the prefectural examination, the metropolitan examination lasted for three days at a time, with a total duration of nine days over three sessions. One month later, the results of the metropolitan examination would be posted at the entrance of the Examination Institute, and the top one hundred candidates would be recognized as "Tribute Scholars." Barring any unforeseen circumstances, these one hundred Tribute Scholars would participate in the palace examination seven days after the posting of the results. The palace examination was personally presided over by the Emperor in the court and was regarded as the "Grand Ceremony of Selecting Talents."