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The Central Superior Services (CSS) Exam is one of Pakistan’s most competitive exams, administered by the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC) to select civil servants for top government positions. A long-standing institution dating back to colonial times, Pakistan’s CSS evolved into a structured system post-independence in 1947, reviving under Article 240 of the Constitution in 1971. The FPSC ensures that CSS recruitment remains based on merit, providing equal opportunity for aspiring candidates nationwide.
Quick Details Table
| Criteria | Details |
| Minimum Age | 21 years by December 31, 2024 |
| Maximum Age | 30 years by December 31, 2024 |
| Upper Age Relaxation (Conditions) | Up to 32 years |
| Educational Requirement | Bachelor’s degree with at least 2nd Division |
| Nationality | Pakistani or Azad Kashmir nationality |
| Application Fee | Rs. 2200 (Written Exam) |
| Health Exam Fee | Rs. 100 |
| Medical Board Fee | Rs. 1400 |
| Regional Quota | See regional breakdown below |
The Significance of the CSS Exam
The CSS exam offers opportunities for a prestigious career in Pakistan’s civil service, promising job security, professional growth, and the chance to play an active role in the nation’s progress. Civil servants contribute across various sectors like law enforcement, administration, commerce, diplomacy, and information. However, the CSS is one of Pakistan’s toughest exams, with a passing rate of only 2-3%, requiring candidates to prepare extensively and to remain updated on national and international affairs.
Eligibility Criteria: Age and Education for 2024
The eligibility criteria for the CSS exam are annually updated by the FPSC and include both educational and age requirements.
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- Age Limit: Candidates must be between 21 and 30 years old as of December 31, 2023.
- Educational Requirement: Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree from a Higher Education Commission (HEC)-recognized university with at least a 2nd Division.
FPSC also requires candidates to pass the preliminary MPT (Multiple-Choice Preliminary Test) before attempting the main CSS exam.
Age Limit Flexibility and Conditions for Age Relaxation
FPSC offers an upper age relaxation of two years (up to 32 years) under specific conditions:
- Government Employees: Candidates with at least two years of continuous government service.
- Residents of Kashmir: Eligible for two-year relaxation with valid documentation from the Kashmir Affairs Division.
- Specific Districts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK): Residents of designated districts in KPK.
- Recognized Groups in Balochistan: Candidates from specified communities in Balochistan.
- Scheduled Castes and Buddhist Community: Eligible candidates must provide relevant community certification.
Applicants must provide documentation verified by the relevant institutions or FPSC to validate their eligibility for age relaxation.
Nationality Requirement
Candidates must hold Pakistani or Azad Kashmir nationality. Those applying under regional or provincial quotas must also submit proof of domicile for the respective area.
Regional Quota System for CSS Exams 2024
FPSC follows a regional quota system to ensure fair representation across Pakistan’s diverse communities. The breakdown is as follows:
| Region/Merit | Quota Percentage |
| Punjab (including Islamabad) | 50% |
| Sindh | 19% |
| Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) | 11.5% |
| Balochistan | 6% |
| FATA & Northern Areas | 4% |
| Azad Kashmir | 2% |
| Merit-Based Selection | 7.5% |
A 10% women’s quota is also in place to ensure gender diversity within the civil service.
CSS Exam Fees and Documentation
- Exam Application Fee: Rs. 2200, payable at National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) branches.
- Health Examination: Rs. 100
- Medical Board Fee: Rs. 1400 for candidates needing a fitness assessment.
- Rechecking Fee: Rs. 500 per paper.
Candidates must submit all documents required by FPSC, including degree certificates and validated proofs of eligibility for age relaxation or quota claims.
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Perks of Clearing the CSS Exam
Passing the CSS exam opens the door to a rewarding career in federal services, spanning 12 primary groups, including the Foreign Service, Police Service, Pakistan Customs, Commerce and Trade, Audit and Accounts, and Railways. Successful candidates serve in various capacities, contributing directly to governance, national security, and policy implementation.
Conclusion
The CSS exam in Pakistan offers a promising career pathway in government roles, with a structured selection process that upholds diversity and merit. While the exam is highly competitive, the rewards and career growth opportunities make it a coveted goal for aspiring civil servants.
