CSS 2025 Exam Structure

CSS Exam Structure 2025

The CSS (Central Superior Services) exam in Pakistan, held yearly by the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC), selects candidates for civil service jobs. It includes a written test with required and optional subjects, a medical exam, a psychological test, and an interview. This process checks candidates’ knowledge, thinking skills, and fitness for government roles. This article will discuss the CSS exam structure 2025 and explain each step in detail.

CSS Exam Stages

CSS exam has five stages, The first one is the MPT test which is normally conducted in October-November after the MPT main written exam is conducted in February-March, the medical test, the physiological test, and the last Viva Voce (Interview).

2. Written Examination

This is the main part of the exam and consists of twelve papers. Six of these papers are compulsory, covering subjects like English, Pakistan Affairs, Islamic Studies or Comparative Religion, General Science & Ability (General Science Portion and Ability Portion), and Current Affairs. The remaining six papers are optional; candidates can choose them based on their interests and academic background.

3. Medical Examination

The medical examination for the CSS exam in Pakistan checks if candidates are healthy enough for civil service jobs. Doctors check their vision, hearing, and general health. You must pass this test to move on to the final interview. This step ensures that the selection process includes only those who are fit and healthy for government roles. Candidates who pass the written exam must undergo a medical check-up to ensure their physical fitness for service.

4. Psychological Assessment

The Psychological Assessment of the CSS exam evaluates a candidate’s mental and emotional fitness for civil service. It includes written tests, group discussions, and interviews to assess personality traits, decision-making skills, and behavior. This step ensures candidates have the right mindset and stability for public service roles.

5. Viva Voce (Interview)

The Viva Voce, or interview, is the final stage of the CSS exam. It assesses candidates’ personality, confidence, and communication skills. Conducted by a panel, the interview covers various topics to evaluate the candidate’s suitability for a civil service role. This stage is decisive for the final selection.

FAQs (CSS Exam Structure 2025)

1. What is the CSS exam structure for 2025?
   The CSS exam has three main sections: Written exam, Psychological test, and Interview.
2. How many papers are there in the CSS written exam?
   The written exam consists of 12 papers: 6 compulsory and 6 optional.
3. What are the compulsory subjects in CSS 2025?
   Compulsory subjects include English, General Knowledge, Islamic Studies/Pakistan Affairs, and an Essay.
4. How many optional subjects can I choose for CSS?
   You can choose 6 optional subjects from the given list.
5. What is the total mark distribution for the CSS exam?
   The written exam is 1200 marks, the interview is 300 marks, making the total 1500 marks.
6. What is the duration of each CSS exam paper?
   Each paper is 3 hours long, with the exception of the essay paper which is 4 hours.
7. Are there negative marks in the CSS exam?
   Yes, 0.25 marks are deducted for every incorrect answer in MCQs.
8. What subjects are tested in the General Knowledge paper?
   General Knowledge includes Current Affairs, Everyday Science, and Pakistan Affairs.
9. Can I choose any subject as optional in CSS?
   Yes, but you should choose subjects based on your strengths, as some subjects have high competition.
10. What is the minimum passing mark for CSS written exam?
    A candidate needs at least 40% in each paper and 50% overall in the written part to qualify.
11. Is the CSS interview compulsory?
    Yes, the interview is compulsory for candidates who pass the written exam.
12. What is the age limit for the CSS exam 2025?
    The age limit for CSS candidates is 21 to 30 years (with relaxations for specific categories).

Author: CSS Updates