The Central Superior Services (CSS) examination is conducted annually by the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC) of Pakistan. The exam pattern has multiple stages — screening test, written examination, medical test, psychological assessment, and final interview. This guide covers every stage of the CSS 2026 exam pattern in detail.
CSS 2026 Exam Stages — Overview
- MPT (Screening Test) — 200 MCQs, qualifying.
- Written Examination — 1,200 marks across 12 papers.
- Medical Test — Conducted at FPSC-designated hospitals.
- Psychological Assessment — 100 marks, qualifying.
- Viva Voce (Interview) — 300 marks.
Total assessment: 1,500 marks (1,200 written + 300 interview), with medical and psychological as supporting stages.
Stage 1 — MPT (Screening Test)
- 200 MCQs in 3 hours
- Sections: English, General Knowledge, Pakistan Affairs, Islamic Studies, IQ
- Qualifying only — does not count toward final merit
- Cut-off varies (typically 33%-40%)
Stage 2 — Written Examination (1,200 marks)
Compulsory Subjects (600 marks)
- English Essay — 100 marks
- English Precis & Composition — 100 marks
- General Science & Ability — 100 marks
- Current Affairs — 100 marks
- Pakistan Affairs — 100 marks
- Islamic Studies / Comparative Study of Religions — 100 marks
Optional Subjects (600 marks)
Candidates choose optional subjects worth 600 marks total from seven groups. Some subjects carry 200 marks (two papers), others 100 marks (one paper). The seven groups span sciences, economics & international relations, public administration, history, environmental & social sciences, law & literature, and arts & languages.
Marking & Cut-offs
- Each paper: 3 hours
- Each subject pass mark: 40%
- Aggregate pass for written stage: 600/1200 (50%)
- Failing any single compulsory paper = failing the CSS exam
Stage 3 — Medical & Psychological Tests
After clearing the written, candidates undergo a standardised medical fitness test (vision, hearing, height, general health). The psychological assessment includes word association, intelligence batteries, group discussions, and personal interviews with FPSC psychologists. Both stages are qualifying.
Stage 4 — Viva Voce (Interview) — 300 marks
The final interview is conducted by a panel of senior bureaucrats and academics. It tests personality, communication, depth of knowledge, and judgement under pressure. The viva carries significant weight — 300 marks — and often decides between two candidates with similar written scores.
Final Merit Calculation
Final aggregate = Written marks (1,200) + Viva marks (300) = 1,500 marks. Allocation to CSS occupational groups (PAS, FSP, PSP, IRS, etc.) is based on merit, preference, and quota.
Key Dates & Application (CSS 2026)
- Notification: typically September-October
- Application deadline: usually October-November
- MPT: usually January
- Written exam: usually February-March
- Final results: 6-10 months after written
Exact dates are announced by FPSC each year — check the official FPSC website.
Tips by Stage
- MPT: Solve at least 5 years of MPT past papers; current affairs is the differentiator.
- Written: Outline → introduction → structured body → conclusion. Time per question = total time / number of questions, minus 10%.
- Medical: Check FPSC’s eligibility criteria for height/vision in advance.
- Psychological: Be honest, consistent, and articulate. There are no “right” answers.
- Viva: Know your CV inside out. Read one English newspaper daily for 6 months before the interview.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between MPT and the written exam?
MPT is the qualifying screening test — 200 MCQs — that you must clear before you’re allowed to take the written examination. Marks from MPT don’t count toward final merit.
How many attempts can I take in CSS?
Three attempts allowed up to age 30 (with some relaxation categories extending it to 32). Each appearance counts as an attempt only if you sit for the written.
Can I change optional subjects after applying?
No — once the form is submitted, optional subjects are locked.
Is there negative marking in MPT?
Yes, in some years — check the specific year’s notification.