CSS Exam 2026 Age Limit and Schedule: FPSC Announces The New Dates and Changes
The Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC) has announced the CSS Exam 2026 Schedule, released dates for changes in age limits, and created more time for prospective candidates to prepare for Pakistan’s most coveted competitive examination.
This announcement is a monumental step for thousands of aspirants, students and professionals, who aim to enter the Central Superior Services (CSS) — and subsequent elite positions across various roles in administration, foreign affairs, customs, and other civil sectors.
MPT Application Dates Announced
The FPSC has announced that the public notice for online application for MCQ-Based Preliminary Test (MPT) will be published on August 10, 2025. All eligible candidates will have their application process held from August 11, 2025 to August 25, 2025.
The MPT is the first step of the CSS examination process in multiple-choice questions before candidates can qualify for the written examination.
Written CSS Examination Timeline
Candidates who qualify the MPT will be able to submit their application submission for written CSS Exam 2026 between December 15 and December 30, 2025. The written examination will officially commence on February 4, 2026. The aforementioned timelines give candidates an opportunity to begin clearing the preparation as they will be entirely focused on the written examination covering several compulsory and optional subjects.
Major Age Limit Extension from 2026
In a historic decision, the National Assembly approved a bill to increase the CSS age limit from 30 years to 35 years, effective 2026, and to add an additional attempt for exam candidates normally.
This change aims to increase access to the CSS exam for individuals who, for numerous reasons, entered the workforce later or required more time to prepare for and tackle the exam also for upcoming exams. It is also expected to bring in a more diverse set of applicants, including individuals from a wide variety of career and professional backgrounds.
Why This Change Matters
The CSS examination has historically been one of Pakistan’s most competitive and consequential tests (CSS offers a chance to enter Pakistan’s federal services). Age and attempt caps meant aspiring candidates oftentimes missed out on the federal services, despite being qualified.By raising the age cap and adding an additional attempt, the government has encouraged better representation of Pakistan’s workforce as it grows.
Preparing for CSS 2026
With the schedule now public, candidates should start their preparation immediately. Key steps include:
- Reviewing the CSS syllabus 2026 on the FPSC website
- Taking mock MPT tests to improve accuracy and speed
- Focusing on compulsory subjects like English Essay, Pakistan Affairs, and Current Affairs
- Selecting optional subjects strategically based on strengths
Final Word
The CSS Exam 2026 schedule and age limit extension mark a positive shift for Pakistan’s civil service recruitment process. With applications for the MPT opening in August 2025 and written exams starting in February 2026, aspirants now have a clear timeline to prepare and succeed.
Whether you are a fresh graduate or a mid-career professional, this is your opportunity to compete for a place in Pakistan’s top administrative ranks.
Important Links
- FPSC Official Website – For application forms and updates
- CSS Syllabus 2026 PDF – Download official syllabus
- Solved Assignments AIOU – Study resources & guides
