Applications for China's 2017 civil service entrance exam came to an end on October 24, 2016. [File photo: Chinanews.com]

Applications for China's 2017 civil service entrance exam came to an end on Monday, with the most sought-after position attracting 9,837 people for only one job.

Over one million applicants have applied to take part in the exam, which will be held on Nov. 27, with a total of 27,061 jobs offered from organizations with the central government, provincial governments and municipal governments.

A total of 9,837 people have applied for the most competitive job in the general office of the China Democratic League's Central Committee, although there is only one position available.

The position description includes preparing for receptions, conferences, and events. At the grassroots level though, 223 vacancies drew no applicants.

Experts believe that the lack of applicants is a result of the relatively low-level positions in the county and townships, the positions requiring at least a 5-year commitment, having difficult working conditions, and a high workload. Competition for positions within the state-level governments is fiercer.

The general competitive ratio is 49:1 while the competitive ratio of central government posts is nearly 60:1.

The civil service test is often considered the most competitive exam in China as hundreds of thousands of applicants partake each year. Many still consider it a 'golden rice bowl' because it provides benefits and stability.