What is CSS Exam in Pakistan?

What is CSS Exam in Pakistan?: The CSS (Central Superior Services) exam in Pakistan is a prestigious and challenging test that selects candidates for various government jobs. These jobs are in different departments and ministries at the federal level. The exam is conducted by the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC).

Purpose of the CSS Exam

The main purpose of the CSS exam is to recruit the best and brightest individuals for civil service positions. These positions are important because they help run the country’s administration, make policies, and ensure that government services are delivered efficiently.

Subjects in CSS Exam

The CSS exam includes compulsory subjects totaling 600 marks, which every candidate must take. Additionally, there are around 45 optional subjects from which candidates must select subjects that add up to another 600 marks. This allows candidates to choose subjects that align with their interests and academic strengths, making the exam a balanced test of core knowledge and specialized skills.

CSS Compulsory Subjects

Compulsory Subjects carry 600 marks; there are 6 subjects, each with 100 marks.

1. English Essay of 100 marks
2. English (précis and Composition) of 100 marks
3. General Science and Ability of 100 marks
4. Current Affairs of 100 marks
5. Pakistan Affairs of 100 marks
6. Islamic Studies or Comparative Study of Major Religions (For Non-Muslims) of 100 marks

CSS Optional Subjects

There are 7 Groups of optional subjects from which candidates must select subjects that add up to another 600 marks.

Group # 1:

This Group has 5 optional subjects each of 200 marks, you can select only one subject in this group.

1. Political Science of 200 Marks
2. International Relations of 200 Marks
3. Computer Science of 200 Marks
4. Economics of 200 Marks
5. Accountancy & Auditing of 200 Marks

Group # 2:

There are 6 optional subjects some of 200 marks and some of 100 marks. You can select one subject of 200 marks or you have to select 2 subjects of 100 marks. In this group, you have to select subjects of 200 marks

1. Chemistry of 200 Marks
2. Applied Mathematics of 100 Marks
3. Pure Mathematics of 100 Marks
4. Physics of 200 Marks
5. Statistics of 100 Marks
6. Geology of 100 Marks

Group # 3:

In CSS Optional Group 3 has 4 optional subjects each of 100 marks, you can select only one subject in this group.

1. Public Administration of 100 Marks
2. Governance & Public Policies of 100 Marks
3. Business Administration of 100 Marks
4. Town Planning & Urban Management of 100 Marks

Group # 4:

This Group has 5 optional subjects each of 100 marks, you can select only one subject in this group.

1. European History of 100 Marks
2. British History of 100 Marks
3. Islamic History & Culture of 100 Marks
4. History of Pakistan & India of 100 Marks
5. History of USA of 100 Marks

Download Revised CSS Subject List PDF

Group # 5:

5 has 7 optional subjects each of 100 marks, you can select only one subject in this group.

1. Urdu Literature of 100 Marks
2. English Literature of 100 Marks
3. Agriculture & Forestry of 100 Marks
4. Gender Studies of 100 Marks
5. Environmental Sciences of 100 Marks
6. Botany of 100 Marks
7. Zoology of 100 Marks

Group # 6:

This Group has 7 optional subjects each of 100 marks, you can select only one subject in this group.

1. Criminology of 100 Marks
2. Philosophy of 100 Marks
3. Law of 100 Marks
4. International Law of 100 Marks
5. Muslim Law and Jurisprudence of 100 Marks
6. Constitutional Law of 100 Marks
7. Mercantile Law of 100 Marks

Group # 7:

Group 7 has 11 optional subjects each of 100 marks, you can select only one subject in this group.

1. Punjabi of 100 Marks
2. Pashto of 100 Marks
3. Persian of 100 Marks
4. Arabic of 100 Marks
5. Sindhi of 100 Marks
6. Balochi of 100 Marks
7. Sociology of 100 Marks
8. Psychology of 100 Marks
9. Journalism & Mass Communication of 100 Marks
10. Anthropology of 100 Marks
11. Geography of 100 Marks

FAQs about CSS Exam in Pakistan

1. What is CSS exam in Pakistan?
   It’s a competitive exam to select civil servants for government jobs.
2. Who conducts the CSS exam?
   The Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC).
3. What is the eligibility for CSS?
   A bachelor’s degree and age between 21 to 30 years.
4. How many times can you attempt CSS?
   You can attempt it 3 times.
5. How many subjects are in CSS exam?
   There are 12 subjects — 6 compulsory and 6 optional.
6. What is the total mark of CSS exam?
   1200 marks (written part).
7. What is the passing criteria for CSS?
   You must score at least 600 marks in written and pass the interview.
8. What is the age relaxation for CSS?
   2 years relaxation for certain groups (up to 32 years).
9. How often is the CSS exam held?
   Once every year.
10. What groups are offered after passing CSS?
    Groups like PAS, PSP, FSP, IRS, etc.
11. Is the CSS exam hard?
    Yes, it is highly competitive and needs serious preparation.
12. Can females apply for CSS?
    Yes, both males and females can apply.

Author: CSS Updates