One of the most complex parts before starting the CSS exam journey is understanding the CSS Syllabus. Today, I will guide you through the CSS syllabus.
Components of CSS Exam
The Civil Services Examination (CSS) in Pakistan is administered by the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC) and is designed to test candidates’ knowledge and abilities in a wide range of subjects. The CSS exam consists of the following components:
- MPT Screening Test: This exam consists of two hundred MCQs. Students need to obtain 33% or 66 marks to qualify for a written examination. The marks of this test are not included in the final result.
- Written Examination: The written examination is divided into two parts.
- Compulsory Subjects: These are 06 papers that all candidates are required to take, regardless of the optional subjects they have chosen. The papers are English (Precis & Composition), Essay, General Science & Ability, Current Affairs, Pakistan Affairs, Islamic Studies (Ethics for Non-Muslims), and General Knowledge.
- Optional Subjects: Candidates are required to choose six hundred marks worth of optional subjects from a list provided by FPSC. The number of papers varies from subject to subject but typically ranges from 3 to 6.
- Psychological Assessment Test (PAT)
- Interview/Viva-voce
MPT Syllabus – Source: FPSC
Compulsory Subject and CSS Syllabus
The syllabus for each compulsory paper of the written examination is provided by FPSC. The total marks for this part are six hundred (600). It usually includes the following key areas for each subject:
CSS Written Exam Syllabus – Source: FPSC
Optional Subject and CSS Syllabus
The syllabus for each optional subject is also provided by FPSC which includes multiple topics for each paper. The students need to select as many subjects as the criteria of reaching six hundred marks is satisfied. The optional subjects are grouped into different categories, and students need to select the subjects accordingly. It’s advisable to go through the syllabus before selecting the optional subjects.
Conclusion
It’s important to note that FPSC reserves the right to make changes to the syllabus as they see fit, so it’s always recommended to check the latest version of the syllabus on the FPSC website before preparing for the exam. FPSC always provides syllabi and all the related material when they advertise for vacancies through general recruitment or via CSS exam.
