ISLAMABAD: A Senate sub-committee has proposed key changes to the Central Superior Services (CSS) exams. The committee has recommended that CSS candidates should be allowed two examination attempts each year. Furthermore, the committee recommended the upper age limit to 35.
The recommendation emerged during a meeting of the Sub-Committee of the Senate Standing Committee on the Cabinet Secretariat. Senator Saleem Mandviwala chaired the session, which included officials from the Establishment Division and the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC).
Members said the current system limits candidates to one exam per year, forcing them to prepare for extended periods. They noted that many aspirants lose eligibility due to age restrictions while waiting for the next exam cycle. They stressed that two annual attempts would help candidates avoid long preparation gaps and remain within the permitted age bracket.
Committee members also urged the government to increase the general upper age limit to 35. They said academic breaks and other challenges often delay preparation and restrict opportunities for applicants from diverse backgrounds.
FPSC representatives responded that two exams per year are not feasible under the existing paper-based system. They said manual evaluation requires significant time for checking papers and compiling results, making biannual exams difficult to conduct.
The sub-committee of the Senate also examined the CSS examination system, including the screening test and the written test. Therefore, committee members decided to introduce flexibility and accessibility for brilliant candidates seeking to join the civil services.
