noun
essay-type test; essay-based examination
An exam format where answers are written in essay form, as opposed to multiple-choice or short-answer formats. Common in academic and professional qualification contexts.
大学院入試では論文式試験が課されることが多い。
Graduate school entrance exams often include an essay-type test.
この資格試験は論文式試験と筆記試験の両方がある。
This qualification exam has both an essay-based examination and a written test.
Compound of 論文 (essay, thesis) + 式 (style, format) + 試験 (examination).