The Central Superior Services (CSS) exam in Pakistan is one of the most prestigious competitive examinations for individuals aspiring to join the civil services of Pakistan. It is conducted annually by the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC) and is aimed at selecting talented individuals for top bureaucratic positions. To be eligible for the CSS exam in 2024, candidates must meet specific age and educational requirements, which are crucial to understand before applying.
Age Limit for CSS Exam 2024
The age limit CSS exam in Pakistan is a critical criterion for eligibility. As of the 2024 cycle, the general age limit for candidates is:
- 21 to 30 years old on December 31, 2023.
This means that candidates must have completed 21 years of age but should not have turned 31 years old by the last day of the previous year. This is the standard age range applicable to the majority of applicants.
However, there are age relaxations available under specific conditions:
- Age Relaxation: A two-year age relaxation is granted to certain candidates, allowing them to apply until the age of 32. This relaxation is typically available for:
- Government employees who have served in posts equivalent to BPS-16 or above for a  age limit CSS exam minimum of two years.
- Candidates belonging to recognized tribal areas (e.g., FATA), Azad Jammu & Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan.
- Individuals from remote or underdeveloped regions, including Baluchistan and other designated areas.
It is important to note that age relaxation is only granted once in a candidate’s lifetime, and they must meet all other eligibility criteria.
Educational Requirements for CSS Exam 2024
The educational qualification required for the CSS exam is straightforward:
- Minimum Educational Qualification: Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university or institution. The degree should be in any discipline, but it must be awarded by an institution accredited by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan.
- The degree must be a fourteen years of education equivalent to a bachelor’s degree (e.g., BA, BSc, BCom).
- Candidates must have passed their bachelor’s with at least a second division (45% or more) or a Grade C.
In addition to this, individuals who have earned a foreign degree must obtain an equivalence certificate from the HECÂ to verify that their degree meets the eligibility criteria set by the FPSC.
Other Requirements
- Nationality: Only Pakistani citizens are eligible to appear for the CSS exam. Candidates from Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK) and Gilgit-Baltistan can also apply. Dual nationals must surrender their foreign nationality if selected.
- Attempt Limits: Each candidate is allowed a maximum of three attempts to pass the CSS exam. The number of attempts remains the same, even if a candidate benefits from age relaxation.
Conclusion
The CSS exam is a gateway to one of the most sought-after career paths in Pakistan’s civil service. The 2024 exam maintains the standard age limit of 21 to 30 years, with a two-year relaxation under specific circumstances. Educationally, candidates must possess at least a bachelor’s degree with second division marks. Meeting these criteria is essential for those wishing to take part in this prestigious examination, which offers an opportunity to serve the country in high-ranking government positions.
Proper preparation for the exam is crucial, and meeting the age and educational criteria is the first
