What is the CSS Exam?

The CSS (Central Superior Services) Exam is a competitive examination conducted by the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC) in Pakistan. It is designed to recruit officers for Pakistan’s civil services in various government departments, such as the Police Service, Foreign Service, Inland Revenue, Customs, and Administrative Services, among others. Successful candidates get appointed as Grade-17 officers and serve in key government positions.

✅ Eligibility Criteria for CSS

Eligibility Criteria for CSS
If you are interested in appearing for the CSS exam, you must meet the following requirements:

✅ Educational Qualification
You must have a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree (14 years of education).
Graduates from any academic discipline can apply. However, strong English writing skills, General Knowledge, and Current Affairs knowledge are essential.

✅ Age Limit
General category: 21 to 30 years.
Relaxation: Candidates belonging to certain underprivileged areas and government employees get a 2-year age relaxation (up to 32 years).

✅ Nationality
The candidate must be a Pakistani citizen.
Candidates from Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan are also eligible.

✅ Number of Attempts
Each candidate can attempt the CSS exam a maximum of 3 times.
If a candidate fails three times, they can no longer apply for CSS.

CSS Exam Structure
The CSS exam consists of three main stages:

1️⃣ Written Examination
2️⃣ Medical & Psychological Assessment
3️⃣ Viva Voce (Interview)

📚 Written Examination
The written exam consists of 12 subjects, divided into:

6 Compulsory subjects
6 Optional subjects
📌 Compulsory Subjects
English Essay
English Precis & Composition
General Science & Ability
Current Affairs
Pakistan Affairs
Islamic Studies / Comparative Religion (for Non-Muslims)
📌 Optional Subjects
Candidates select their optional subjects based on their interests and educational background from different subject groups.

How to Prepare for CSS?

✅ Basic Preparation
Focus on English writing skills. Improve your grammar, vocabulary, and sentence structure.
Read newspapers and magazines daily to stay updated with current affairs.
Solve past papers and practice model papers for better understanding.

✅ Study Materials & Resources
Use reliable books and notes such as JWT, ILMI, and Carvan Publishers.
Join online study groups and CSS forums for expert guidance.

✅ Practice Writing
Develop a habit of writing 500-1000 words daily.
Focus on essay writing, precis writing, and short-answer questions.

✅ Time Management
Create a daily study schedule and allocate proper time for each subject.
Keep in mind that CSS preparation usually takes 6 to 12 months of dedicated study.