The examination for China's civil service applicants is becoming more meaningful as it puts increasing stress on competence and capabilities.

A further 15 percent of the civil service berths will be given to people with at least two years working experience next year. The State Administration of Civil Service is sensible to reserve 85 percent of the civil service seats for experienced people, recruiting the right hands for the right places.

The exam will also open the door to more government jobs at the grass-roots level. The revised ratio favoring experienced candidates should serve as a prelude to civil service system reform.