CSS Preliminary Test (MPT)

The MCQ-Based Preliminary Test (MPT) is a mandatory screening test for the CSS (Central Superior Services) Exam in Pakistan. Conducted by the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC), this test serves as the first step before candidates can sit for the CSS written examination.

If you are planning to appear in the CSS Exam, it is crucial to understand the MPT format, eligibility, syllabus, and passing criteria. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about the CSS MPT test.

1️⃣ What is the CSS MPT Test?
The MCQ-Based Preliminary Test (MPT) was introduced by FPSC in 2022 as a qualifying test for the CSS written exam. The primary purpose of the MPT is to:

✅ Screen candidates before the CSS written exam
✅ Ensure only serious and eligible candidates proceed further
✅ Reduce the number of applicants for better evaluation

📌 Important Note: MPT is compulsory, and only those who pass the MPT can appear in the CSS written exam.

2️⃣ CSS MPT Test – Key Details
Feature Details
Exam Type MCQ-Based (Objective)
Total Marks 200
Passing Marks 66 (33%)
Negative Marking ❌ No
Duration 200 minutes (3 hours 20 minutes)
Language English
Frequency Once a year (before the written exam)
Conducted By FPSC
3️⃣ Eligibility Criteria for MPT
If you wish to appear in the CSS MPT, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:

✅ Education Requirement
A minimum Bachelor’s degree (14 years of education) is required.
Candidates with 16 years of education (Master’s degree) have an advantage.
No specific field of study is required; candidates from any academic background can apply.
✅ Age Limit
General category: 21 to 30 years (on 31st December of the preceding year).
Age relaxation: Up to 32 years for government employees and candidates from underprivileged areas.
✅ Nationality
The applicant must be a Pakistani citizen.
Candidates from AJK and Gilgit-Baltistan can also apply.
✅ Number of Attempts
A candidate can appear in the MPT multiple times, but the CSS written exam can only be attempted 3 times.

CSS MPT Test Syllabus & Format
The MPT exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions (MCQs), covering a wide range of subjects. The syllabus includes:

4️⃣ CSS MPT Test Syllabus & Format
The MPT exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions (MCQs), covering a wide range of subjects. The syllabus includes:

📘 Subject-Wise Breakdown of MPT
Subject Number of MCQs

• Islamic Studies / Civics (For Non-Muslims) 20
• General Knowledge 50
• Pakistan Affairs 20
• Current Affairs 20
• English 50
• Basic Mathematics 20
• General Science & Ability 20
• Urdu (Vocabulary & Translation) 10
• Total 200How to Apply for CSS MPT Test?
  Follow these steps to apply for the CSS MPT test:

  1️⃣ Visit the FPSC website (www.fpsc.gov.pk) and check for the latest MPT advertisement.
  2️⃣ Download the Challan Form and submit the application fee
  3️⃣ Fill out the online application form on the FPSC portal.
  4️⃣ Print your application form and keep it for reference.
  5️⃣ Download and print your roll number slip once issued.

  6️⃣ How to Prepare for the CSS MPT Test?
  ✅ 1. Focus on English & General Knowledge
  Improve vocabulary and practice grammar-based MCQs.
  Read Dawn newspaper daily for current affairs & editorial analysis.
  Study past papers and solve MCQs daily.
  ✅ 2. Stay Updated with Current Affairs
  Follow Pakistani and international news.
  Study economic, political, and social issues.
  ✅ 3. Solve Past Papers
  Download and practice previous CSS MPT papers.
  Take mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
  ✅ 4. Revise Pakistan Affairs & Islamic Studies
  Prepare historical events, constitutional developments, and Islamic laws.
  Focus on important personalities, movements, and reforms.

  What Happens After the MPT Test?
  ✅ If You Pass:

  You become eligible to apply for the CSS written exam.
  FPSC issues an official MPT Result Certificate, which must be attached when applying for the CSS written test.
  ❌ If You Fail:

  You cannot appear in the CSS written exam for that year.
  You can apply for the next MPT test in the following year.

  Final Words
  The CSS MPT Test is a mandatory screening exam that ensures only serious candidates proceed to the CSS written examination. Since the passing marks are only 33%, it is relatively easy to qualify compared to the main CSS exam.

  🚀 Start preparing today! Study consistently, practice MCQs, and stay updated with current affairs. Your journey to becoming a CSP officer begins here!