Principal Examination Lists (*Zhengbang*)

The meaning of a principal list

Zhengbang designated the principal list of successful candidates in an imperial examination, commonly distinguished from a supplementary list (fubang). The meaning depends on which examination was involved. Successful candidates on the principal list of a provincial examination (xiangshi) obtained juren status. Those who passed the metropolitan examination (huishi) became gongshi and then proceeded to the palace examination, through which their final jinshi ranking was determined. A biographical reference to a principal list must therefore identify its level before any degree can be assigned.

Supplementary lists and banner candidates

The Draft History of Qing describes both principal and supplementary lists and the applicable admissions procedures. Supplementary-list candidates were selected beyond the principal quota according to established rules; a provincial supplementary listing could have consequences for fugong status, but it did not grant the same standing as a principal-list juren. A list, an educational status, and permission to take a later examination are related yet distinct matters.

Banner examinations were further affected by changes in quotas, language requirements, and banner affiliation. Inclusion on a particular list does not independently establish a person's origin, exact banner register, or subsequent appointment. For reliable biographies, record the examination year, level, list, resulting credential, and any independently documented office in sequence.