LAHORE: The Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC) has officially released the timeline and revised eligibility criteria for the Central Superior Services (CSS) 2026 competitive examinations, marking a significant development for aspiring civil servants across Pakistan.
The examination will be conducted in two key phases: the MCQ-Based Preliminary Test (MPT) and the written examination. The MPT is designed as a qualifying screening test that candidates must pass to be eligible for the written segment of the exam.
As per the FPSC announcement, the public notice for MPT online applications will be issued on August 10, 2025. Candidates will be able to submit their applications between August 11 and August 25, 2025. The MPT will be held on November 9, 2025.
Those who qualify in the MPT will be eligible to appear in the CSS written examination. The official notice for written exam applications will be published on December 14, 2025, and applications will be accepted from December 15 to December 30, 2025. The written exam is scheduled to commence on February 4, 2026.
In a major policy shift, the National Assembly has approved an increase in the upper age limit for CSS aspirants—from 30 to 35 years—starting with the CSS 2026 cycle. Additionally, candidates will be granted one extra attempt, a move that aims to increase accessibility and reduce pressure on applicants.
FPSC emphasized that the announced schedule is tentative and subject to change. Candidates are strongly advised to monitor the official FPSC website for timely updates, notices, and potential modifications.
Meanwhile, the Senate Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat recently held a session, chaired by Senator Rana Mahmood Ul Hassan, to assess the challenges in the CSS process.
During the meeting, FPSC officials disclosed key factors contributing to the high failure rate—reportedly as high as 98%—in Pakistan’s premier competitive examination. They provided a comprehensive overview of the structure, challenges, and reforms required to improve outcomes and transparency.
With clear guidelines now in place, aspirants are encouraged to begin focused preparation for what remains one of Pakistan’s most respected and competitive examinations.
