The Central Superior Services (CSS) exam is one of Pakistan’s most competitive and prestigious exams. It is held annually by the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC). It selects candidates for top administrative and bureaucratic roles in the federal government.
This article provides a complete guide to the CSS eligibility criteria and the online application process for aspiring candidates. It outlines the requirements, steps to apply, and important details to help you successfully register for the CSS exam.
CSS Eligibility Criteria 2025
- The candidate must be a citizen of Pakistan or a domicile holder of Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK) or Gilgit-Baltistan (GB).
- For candidates holding dual nationality, they must renounce their non-Pakistani nationality upon final selection.
Educational Qualification
- A Bachelor’s degree (14 years of education) from a recognized university is required.
- The degree must be obtained with at least a 2nd Division (minimum 45% marks).
- Candidates with third division are eligible only if they have a higher degree (Master’s or equivalent) with at least a 2nd Division.
Age Limit
- General Age Limit: 21 to 30 years on 31st December of the year prior to the exam (for CSS 2025, this is 31st December 2024).
- Age Relaxation:
- A 2-year relaxation (up to 32 years) is granted for candidates who:
- Are government employees with at least 2 years of continuous service (excluding contract employees).
- Belong to backward areas as specified by the FPSC.
- Backward areas include Balochistan, tribal areas, AJK, GB, and certain districts of Sindh and Punjab.
- A 2-year relaxation (up to 32 years) is granted for candidates who:
Gender
- Both males and females are eligible to apply.
- Special quotas may apply for women and minorities as per government policies.
Domicile
- Candidates must possess a valid domicile certificate from their respective province/region.
Number of Attempts
- Candidates are allowed a maximum of 3 attempts for the CSS exam.
- An attempt is counted when a candidate appears in any one paper of the written examination unlike PMS Punjab exam, where appearing in the screening test is considered an official attempt.
Who Can Apply for CSS Specific Groups
Disabled candidates or Physically challenged candidates are eligible to apply for the CSS exam for specific occupational groups such as:
- Commerce & Trade Group
- Pakistan Audit & Accounts Service
- Information Group
- Postal Group
- Railways (Commercial & Transportation) Group
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- PMS Ministerial Quota Exam 2025: Apply Online
- PMS Punjab Written Exam 2025 Updates
How to Apply Online for CSS 2025
The CSS Examination application process is conducted online via the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC) portal. Below is a step-by-step guide to applying for the CSS exam, from registration to final submission.
Register for the MPT (Preliminary Test)
- Visit the FPSC Online Portal: https://www.fpsc.gov.pk/.
- Look for the announcement of the CSS MCQ-Based Preliminary Test (MPT).
- Click on the Apply Online link and create an account (if new) or log in.
- Fill in the required fields for the MPT application.
- Pay the MPT registration fee (PKR 250) through challan form at a designated National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) branch.
- Upload a scanned copy of the paid challan, CNIC, and recent photograph.
- Submit the form and keep the MPT Roll Number Slip.
CSS 2025 MCQ based Preliminary Test (MPT) Result has been announced on 20th December 2024.
Apply for the CSS Written Examination 2025
Candidates who pass the CSS screening test can proceed to apply for the CSS written exam, usually held after MPT result (December/January).
- Visit the FPSC Portal:
- Log in using your credentials on the FPSC online portal.
- Complete the Online Application Form:
- Fill out your personal details (name, CNIC, contact details, etc.).
- Provide educational qualifications, including degrees and grades.
- Mention your employment history (if any).
- Select your optional subjects from the provided list.
- Indicate your test center preference.
- Download and Pay the Challan Form:
- Download the challan form for the CSS exam fee (PKR 2200).
- Deposit the fee at any branch of National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) under the FPSC account.
- Upload Required Documents for CSS Written Exam
- Scanned copy of the paid challan form.
- Recent passport-sized photograph (soft copy).
- CNIC.
- Domicile certificate.
- Educational documents (matric, intermediate, bachelor’s degree).
- Age relaxation documents (if applicable).
- Review and Submit:
- Review the filled form carefully for errors.
- Submit the form online.
- Download and print a copy of the submitted application form for your record.
Dispatch Hard Copies
After online submission, candidates must send hard copies of the following to the FPSC head office:
- Printed application form.
- Original challan form (FPSC copy).
- Attested copies of:
- CNIC.
- Domicile.
- Educational certificates (matric, intermediate, bachelor’s degree, etc.).
- Service certificate (for government employees only).
- Age relaxation documents (if applicable).
FPSC Address for Submission of Hard Copies
Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC), F-5/1, Aga Khan Road, Islamabad, Pakistan.
The candidates who have qualified MPT are advised to furnish their online applications for CSS written exam 2025 during the period 23.12.2024 to 06.01.2025.
Conclusion
The CSS exam is a significant step toward a promising career in Pakistan’s civil services. With proper preparation and a thorough understanding of CSS online registration process, aspiring candidates can confidently take this initial step toward their goals.
From online registration to form submission, each stage is designed to ensure accuracy and ease for applicants. Remember, the FPSC contact details provided in this guide can be used for assistance if needed.
Category | Details |
Helpline Numbers | 051-9213386, 051-9212423, 051-9212425 |
Main Contact | 051-9205075, 051-111-000-248, 051-9212427 |
fpsc@fpsc.gov.pk | |
Office Address | Agha Khan Road, Sector F-5/1, Islamabad, Pakistan |
Website | www.fpsc.gov.pk |
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