BEIJING, July 29 -- More than 70 percent of China's 7.27 million new college graduates had landed jobs as of July 1, the Ministry of Education said on Tuesday.

The reading was almost the same as that of last year, when the number of graduates stood at 6.99 million, according to the ministry.

It issued a circular on Tuesday to urge universities to better serve graduates still striving to secure jobs, and those who had plans for start-up businesses.

Universities should provide technical support and advice for those who are interested in starting their own enterprises, according to the circular.

The ministry also urged universities to work with human resources, finance and taxation authorities in offering services including training and loan guarantees for such aspiring entrepreneurs.