China to recruit over 38k civil servants in 2026

China plans to recruit 38,100 civil servants for central government agencies and their subordinate institutions in 2026, the State Administration of Civil Service said on Tuesday.

Online registration opens from Wednesday to Oct 24, and the public subject written test is scheduled to take place across the country on Nov 30.

Notably, the age limit for applicants has been relaxed this year. Generally, candidates should be between 18 and 38 years old. For master's and doctoral graduates in 2026, the age limit has been extended to 43. The adjustment is in line with China's progressive approach to delaying the legal retirement age. The previous age requirement was 35 for ordinary candidates and 40 for those with master's and doctoral degrees.

Recruitment continues to focus on supporting new graduate employment, with approximately 26,000 positions reserved for fresh graduates.

To strengthen civil service in the grassroots level, more than 28,000 positions are designated to institutions of or below the county level.

The notice said political criteria and requirements are emphasized throughout the entire process of civil service recruitment and those who fail to meet political standards are resolutely excluded. The written test continues to include a dedicated section on political theory, focusing on the ability to analyze and solve problems using the Party's innovative theories.

Professional competency tests are also added for positions requiring specialized knowledge, with 14 departments organizing specialized written tests while 56 departments conducting professional competency tests during the interview test phase.

No official exam preparation books have been published for this recruitment, and no training courses have been organized or authorized. Relevant authorities will enhance supervision of civil service exam training institutions, regulate commercial promotional activities, and take strong action against cheating and other irregularities to protect candidates' rights and ensure a fair examination environment.

The National Civil Service Administration emphasizes that integrity is a core value of socialism, fundamental to personal conduct and professional development, and essential for anyone aspiring to become a civil servant. It has reminded candidates to act in good faith throughout the exam.

Chen Zhekai, a 24-year-old postgraduate student at the Communication University of China, said he decided to take the civil servant exam because of a genuine desire to serve the people and contribute to society. At the same time, he feels that his skills and preferences may not align well with the competitive pressures and work culture in private companies.

He plans to apply for positions in his hometown, Zhangzhou, or nearby Xiamen city in Fujian province. "Being close to home aligns with my life goals — family, lower stress and modest career ambitions. Having a clear goal helps me stay calm and determined," he added.

Xiao Yifan contributed to the story.