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CSS Basic Guide

Introduction To CSS Competitive Examination

The CSS Examination is a competitive examination conducted by the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC) Islamabad every year for recruitment to posts in Basic Pay Scale 17 for the following groups/services under the Federal Government: 

  1.  Commerce & Trade  
  2. Customs & Excise Group 
  3. District Management Group 
  4. Foreign Service of Pakistan 
  5. Income Tax Group  Information Group
  6. Military Lands and Cantonments Groups 
  7. Office Management Group
  8. Pakistan Audit and Accounts Service 
  9. Police Service of Pakistan
  10. Postal Group  Railways (Commercial & Transportation)Group

PARTS OF CSS EXAMINATION 

The CSS Examination is designed to select candidates for services under FPSC. The Commission ensures that the selected candidate is well-rounded for the post or service. Candidates must undergo all parts of the CSS Exam for appointment against a post.

The CSS Exam comprises the following components:

1. MULTIPLE CHOICE TEST (MPT)

The MPT serves as the first step in the CSS examination process. It assesses candidates’ general knowledge, English language skills, and analytical abilities. The test is typically conducted as a computer based exam, and candidates must achieve a passing score to qualify for the subsequent written examination. MPT is designed to be manageable. Out of 200 MCQs, you only need to answer 66 correctly to pass. With dedication and the right preparation, this is an achievable goal for beginners and seasoned candidates alike – Download MPT syllabus here – Fpsc.gov.pk

 2. WRITTEN EXAMINATION

The written exam carries a total of 1200 marks. Candidates must take all compulsory subjects (papers), which carry a total of 600 marks, as well as select subjects from optional subjects, which also CSS Platform: Revolutionizing Competitive Exams Preparation Visit: cssplatfrombytha.com Email: support@ cssplatfrombytha.com CSS PLATFORM Realizing The Dream! – Give us a student, we give back a Bureaucrat carry a total of 600 marks. Each paper is allotted 3 hours. There are subjective questions as well as some MCQs. MCQs are to be attempted on a computerized OMR answer sheet, whereas subjective questions are to be attempted on an answer book. Blue or black ink is allowed only. To qualify for the written test, a candidate must obtain at least 40% in each compulsory subject and 33% in each optional subject or 50% in aggregate. 

COMPULSORY SUBJECTS (600 MARKS

  1. English Essay 
  2. English (Precis and Composition) 
  3. General Science and Ability 
  4. Current Affairs
  5. Pakistan Affairs 
  6. Islamic Studies / Comparative Religion

OPTIONAL SUBJECTS (600 MARKS) 

3. MEDICAL TEST

Candidates can select from a variety of optional subjects as per the syllabus provided by FPSC. This journey may seem daunting, but remember, many who qualify once were once beginners just like you. With consistent effort, perseverance, and hard work, you can conquer the battle ahead. Invest just one year into your preparation, and the results can be life-changing. Candidates who qualify the written examination will be medically examined by medical boards constituted for the purpose to ensure that the candidate is in good mental and physical health and free from any physical defects likely to interfere with the discharge of their duties. Candidates found not to satisfy these requirements will not be appointed, except for disabled candidates, as per rules mentioned by FPSC. Disabled candidates must submit a certificate of disability issued by the competent authority designated for the purpose by the Federal/Provincial Government. They are allowed to compete against specific groups/services and may request a helper, such as a writer.

4. PSYCHOLOGICAL TEST

All candidates called for the viva voce will undergo a psychological test first, which comprises written tests and group tasks. These tests are designed to assess abilities, attitudes, and personality CSS Platform: Revolutionizing Competitive Exams Preparation Visit: cssplatfrombytha.com Email: support@ cssplatfrombytha.com CSS PLATFORM Realizing The Dream! – Give us a student, we give back a Bureaucrat characteristics with special regard to their aptitude for Civil Services. Separate marks are not awarded for the psychological assessment; however, the 300 marks assigned to the viva voce also reflect performance on the psychological test. Candidates must bring their National Identity Cards and two copies of recent photographs when summoned. If a candidate remains absent from the psychological test, they will not be allowed to appear for the viva voce. 

 5. VIVA VOCE 

Each candidate who qualifies for the written part of the examination will be interviewed by a board. They will be asked questions on matters of general interest, aiming to assess their suitability for the services for which they are entered. The board will attach particular importance to the moral and ethical qualities of the candidates, their intelligence, alertness of mind, vigor, strength of character, and potential leadership qualities. The board will also consider extra-mural activities such as sports, debates, and hobbies in assessing merit. Candidates are expected to have basic knowledge regarding Islam and Pakistan. Questions may be asked in the interview on these subjects, and candidates scoring less than passing marks in these subjects will not be considered for appointment, regardless of their proficiency in other fields. Non-Muslim candidates will not be asked any questions regarding Islam.