More than 1.39 million applicants signed up for China's national civil servant exam this year, a slight drop of one percent year on year, according to the State Administration of Civil Service.

More than 1.4 million people applied last year, down from 1.52 million in 2013, according to the administration.

While the average number of applicants vying for a single position is 46, lower than last year's 58, there are still 131 positions that require special academic backgrounds, such as meteorological observation and geology, with no applications at all.

"Applicants were more rational this year," said Peng Zhongbao from the administration.

Enthusiasm for government work has faded in recent years, despite the fact that Chinese people have long regarded government posts as "golden bowls" -- offering stable income and status -- that can only be secured through fierce competition.

The exam's written test is scheduled to take place on Nov 29.?