China Eases Age Limits for Civil Service Applicants

China is easing age limits for civil service applicants, raising the cap to 38 nationally and up to 43 for advanced degree holders. This move addresses age discrimination, known as the “curse of 35,” and aligns hiring practices with extended education and delayed retirement. Local governments are adopting similar reforms. While fostering inclusivity and job opportunities for older workers, the changes may also intensify competition for civil service roles.

In a significant move toward fostering inclusivity in its workforce, China is revising age restrictions for civil service applicants, signaling a nationwide effort to combat age discrimination. The new policies reflect a broader attempt to align hiring practices with the realities of extended education programs, delayed retirement ages, and a shifting job market.

For years, the civil service in China imposed a strict age cap of 35 for applicants. However, this is now changing as part of a broader reform initiative. The central government recently announced that the upper age limit for national civil service applicants will rise to 38. This policy will take effect ahead of the upcoming national civil service exam in November, with registration already underway as of October 15.

Expanded Eligibility Across Educational Qualifications

The updated age criteria are tailored to accommodate different applicant groups based on their educational backgrounds. For example, candidates who will graduate with master’s or doctoral degrees by 2026 can now apply for civil service positions until the age of 43. This adjustment aims to provide more opportunities for individuals who spend longer periods pursuing advanced degrees.

Local governments are also following suit. In August, Shanghai raised the age limit to 38 for candidates seeking citywide law enforcement roles. Similarly, the cities of Meishan and Suining in Sichuan province revised their age limits in September, allowing bachelor’s degree holders to apply until 38 and extending the maximum age for master’s degree holders from 40 to 43. Other regions, including Jiangsu, Shandong, and Guizhou provinces, have introduced comparable changes in recent months.

Tackling the “Curse of 35” in the Job Market

Age discrimination has long been a pervasive issue in China’s job market, often referred to as the “curse of 35” or “35 sui mozhou.” This stereotype suggests that employees over 35 are less dynamic, more costly to employ, and less willing to work long hours. Such biases have led to limited career progression, layoffs, and diminished opportunities for older workers.

The problem gained widespread attention earlier this year when a job posting in Guangzhou set a maximum age of 35 for sanitation workers, sparking public outrage. The incident fueled nationwide calls to eradicate age-based biases in hiring practices.

Addressing Broader Workplace Discrimination

China’s efforts to combat workplace discrimination extend beyond age-related issues. Last September, the State Council issued guidelines urging the elimination of hiring biases based on region, gender, status, or age. These measures are particularly timely as the country grapples with demographic challenges, such as a shrinking population and high rates of youth unemployment.

According to Xiong Bingqi, deputy director of the 21st Century Education Research Institute in Beijing, expanding the age eligibility for civil service positions is part of a broader push to reform hiring practices. However, Xiong notes that these changes are being implemented gradually and currently apply only to select roles.

Balancing Competition and Opportunity

While the relaxed age restrictions are expected to create more opportunities for older job seekers, experts caution that they may also increase competition for coveted civil service roles. Historically, there has been a disparity in demand between high-profile positions and entry-level roles within the civil service. By broadening the pool of eligible candidates, the government hopes to attract more applicants to less sought-after positions while enhancing overall employment prospects.

The reforms also hold the potential to influence private-sector hiring practices, encouraging a shift toward valuing skills and qualifications over age. However, as competition for civil service roles intensifies, applicants may face new challenges in securing these positions.

In summary, China’s decision to ease age limits for civil service applicants is a significant step toward addressing age discrimination and fostering a more inclusive job market. By aligning hiring policies with the country’s evolving workforce needs, these reforms aim to create better opportunities for individuals of all ages while challenging outdated stereotypes that have long hindered career prospects for older workers.