CSS Exam Structure in Pakistan (Complete Guide)

The CSS (Central Superior Services) exam, conducted by FPSC (Federal Public Service Commission), is one of the most competitive exams in Pakistan. It is designed to select candidates for BS-17 posts in various federal government departments and service groups such as PAS, PSP, FSP, IRS, and others.

The exam is divided into four main stages:

1. Written Examination

2. Medical Examination

3. Psychological Assessment

4. Viva Voce (Interview)

Final merit is made on the basis of written + viva marks.

1. Written Examination (1200 Marks)

The written exam is the most critical stage. It carries a total of 1200 marks, divided into compulsory and optional subjects.

Compulsory Subjects (600 Marks)

Every candidate must attempt these six papers (100 marks each):

• English Essay (100 marks)

  • One essay to be written on a given topic. Tests analytical ability, coherence, and expression.

• English (Precis & Composition) (100 marks)

  • Includes précis writing, comprehension, grammar, vocabulary, and communication skills.

• General Science & Ability (100 marks)

  • Tests general knowledge of science (physics, chemistry, biology, environmental science) + basic mathematics, analytical reasoning, and everyday science.

• Current Affairs (100 marks)

  • Covers national & international issues, politics, global organizations, Pakistan’s relations with other countries, and socio-economic matters.

• Pakistan Affairs (100 marks)

  • Covers Pakistan’s history, constitutional development, geography, politics, economy, and current challenges.

• Islamic Studies OR Comparative Religion (100 marks)

  • Islamic history, teachings, and contemporary issues for Muslim candidates.

  • Non-Muslims may opt for Comparative Study of Major Religions.

Passing marks in each compulsory subject = 40%.

Optional Subjects (600 Marks)

Candidates must select optional subjects worth 600 marks from the FPSC’s prescribed list.

• The subjects are divided into 9 groups (A–I).

• You can select:

  • One subject of 200 marks OR

  • Two subjects of 100 marks each from a single group (if allowed).

Examples of Popular Optional Subjects:

• Political Science (200)

• International Relations (200)

• Public Administration (100)

• Criminology (100)

• History of USA (100)

• Gender Studies (100)

• Regional Languages (Pashto, Punjabi, Sindhi, Balochi, etc.)

👉 Passing marks in each optional subject = 33%.

2. Medical Examination

• Conducted after clearing the written exam.

• Aimed at checking physical and medical fitness (e.g., eyesight, hearing, height/weight balance).

• Unfit candidates may be disqualified even after passing the written part.

3. Psychological Assessment

This stage tests the personality and aptitude of candidates.

• Written psychological tests: IQ, EQ, personality inventories.

• Group discussions & tasks: To assess leadership, teamwork, decision-making, and communication.

• Panel observations: Psychologists evaluate overall attitude and suitability for civil services.

4. Viva Voce (Interview – 300 Marks)

• Duration: 30–40 minutes.

• Panel includes senior civil servants, psychologists, and subject experts.

• Tests:

  • General knowledge

  • Expression & confidence

  • Problem-solving approach

  • Knowledge of optional subjects

  • Suitability for federal services

Passing marks = 100 out of 300 (33%).

5. Final Merit Calculation

• Written exam = 1200 marks

• Interview = 300 marks

• Total = 1500 marks

• Final merit is prepared on combined score + provincial/regional quota.

CSS Exam Structure (Quick Summary Table)