CSS 2027: FPSC Schedule, Written Exam Application Dates and Eligibility

CSS 2027 key dates (FPSC)

• MPT registration: 3–20 August 2026
• MPT held: 27 September 2026
• Written exam advertisement: 8 November 2026
• Online applications: 10–25 November 2026
• Hard copy deadline: 4 December 2026
• Written exam begins: 27 January 2027

The Central Superior Services (CSS) exam is Pakistan’s gateway to elite government careers in groups such as the Pakistan Administrative Service, Police Service, Foreign Service, Inland Revenue and Customs. It is conducted by the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC). For CSS 2027, the screening test (MPT) has taken place and the written exam application window is coming up.

How the CSS process works

1. MCQ-based Preliminary Test (MPT): a screening test. Only candidates who pass can apply for the written exam.
2. Written examination: 12 papers, 1,200 marks in total: six compulsory subjects (600 marks) and optional subjects worth 600 marks.
3. Medical examination and psychological assessment.
4. Viva voce (interview): 300 marks.
5. Final merit and group allocation, based on total marks, your group preferences and quotas.

Compulsory subjects

• English Essay (100)
• English (Précis and Composition) (100)
• General Science and Ability (100)
• Current Affairs (100)
• Pakistan Affairs (100)
• Islamic Studies or Comparative Study of Major Religions (100)

General eligibility

• Pakistani or AJK citizen
• At least a bachelor’s degree in second division (or equivalent) from an HEC-recognised institution
• Age normally 21–30 years on the cut-off date set by FPSC, with relaxations for some categories (such as government employees and residents of certain areas)
• A limited number of attempts

The official advertisement on 8 November 2026 will confirm the exact criteria, cut-off date and fees. Read it carefully.

How to apply for the written exam

1. Wait for your MPT result and confirm that you qualified.
2. From 10 November 2026, log in to the FPSC online application system and complete the CSS 2027 form, including optional subjects and group preferences.
3. Pay the fee as instructed.
4. Print the completed form and send the hard copy with required documents to FPSC so it arrives by 4 December 2026.

Choosing optional subjects

• Pick subjects you enjoy and can write well on. Interest makes long preparation easier.
• Look for overlap with compulsory papers; for example, International Relations supports Current Affairs.
• Check that good books and past papers are available.
• Do not choose a subject only because someone says it is “scoring”.

A four-month plan before January

1. October: finalise optional subjects; start daily newspaper reading and notes.
2. November: complete the syllabus once for each subject; practise one essay outline every day.
3. December: write full answers under timed conditions; revise compulsory subjects.
4. January: past papers, revision and rest.

Source: Federal Public Service Commission; schedule as reported by ProPakistani, July 2026. Confirm details in the official advertisement.