Archive · 1 Dec 2025
China's Civil Service Exam Sees Record 3.7 Million Applicants
China had a huge number of people, 3.7 million, taking a big test to get government jobs.
This is because many people want stable jobs, especially with the economy being uncertain.
The government has also made it easier for older people and those with higher degrees to take the test.
In India, the test for government jobs is much harder to get into, with only about 1,000 spots available.
The age limits in India are also stricter.
China's changes are meant to help more people get jobs, especially those who might have taken longer to finish school or start their careers.
China's civil service exam saw a record 3.7 million applicants, with 98 applicants per post.
70% of the vacancies are reserved for fresh college graduates.
The age limit for general applicants has been raised from 35 to 38 years, and to 43 for postgraduates.
The changes aim to address demographic shifts and economic uncertainty, offering more job security.
India's UPSC exam has 979 vacancies for 2025, with stricter age limits and eligibility criteria.
- Who
- 3.7 million applicants, primarily fresh college graduates in China
- What
- China's civil service exam saw a record number of applicants
- When
- The exam and policy changes were announced in October 2025
- Where
- China
- Why
- Due to high unemployment, economic uncertainty, and a desire for job security in government roles
- Number of Applicants
- 3.7 million
- Applicants per Post
- 98
- Vacancies for Fresh Graduates
- 70%
- New Age Limit (General)
- 38 years
- New Age Limit (Postgraduates)
- 43 years
- Total Posts for 2026
- 38,100
- India's UPSC Vacancies (2025)
- 979
- India's Age Limit (General)
- 21–32 years