In the upcoming military conscription in November, China plans to recruit 130,000 soldiers from college graduates, the largest number of recruits from colleges in history, the People's Daily reports.

Sources of the Ministry of Education told the newspaper that, on even grounds, young people possessing higher academic degrees will receive priority in the recruitment drive.

College students who are to be recruited will enjoy preferential treatment compared to previous years. This includes an allowance for tuition fees and enjoying priority in entering a higher education establishment when they complete their services.

"With an allowance of up to 24,000 yuan (US$3515), the college soldiers can cover all their college tuition fees. In other words, college soldier receive free college entry." An official of the Ministry told the People's Daily.

Well-performing college soldiers can also be preferentially considered for studying technology, employment and future promotion after service and applying to enter military college.