FPSC cites time constraints under current paper-based evaluation system
A Senate sub-committee has urged the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC) to increase the upper age limit for CSS candidates to 35 years and to allow two examination attempts per year. The recommendations were made during a meeting of the Sub-Committee of the Senate Standing Committee on the Cabinet Secretariat, chaired by Senator Saleem Mandviwala at the Parliament Lodges.
Representatives from the FPSC and other relevant departments attended the session, which included a detailed briefing on the CSS competitive examination, covering the marking scheme, screening tests, and assessment cycle.
The committee emphasized that the current single annual attempt forces students to stretch preparation over multiple years, often losing eligibility due to age limits. Allowing two attempts annually would help aspirants remain within the prescribed age bracket, similar to supplementary examinations in other educational systems.
The FPSC noted that implementing a second attempt immediately may not be feasible under the existing paper-based evaluation system, given the time required for syllabus assessment and result finalization.
Additionally, the panel recommended raising the general upper age limit for candidates to 35 years, taking into account gap years and other factors that may delay preparation.
The committee was briefed that the screening test consists of 200 marks (MCQ-based) as a qualifying stage. The written examination carries 600 marks for compulsory subjects (with a 40% qualifying threshold) and 600 marks for optional subjects (33% qualifying threshold), totaling 1,200 marks, with a 50% aggregate required to pass. Candidates who pass proceed to psychological assessment, medical examination, and viva voce, which together carry 300 marks, with 100 marks needed to pass. Overall merit is based on a total of 1,500 marks.
Key Issues and Implications
- Age Limit Challenges: Current age restrictions often disqualify aspirants who require multiple years to prepare for the CSS exams.
- Exam Attempts: Allowing two attempts per year could reduce pressure and make preparation more manageable.
- FPSC Implementation Constraints: The FPSC highlighted practical limitations of moving to multiple attempts under the current paper-based system.
Impact on Candidates: These changes, if approved, would provide greater flexibility and opportunities for CSS aspirants to achieve their career goals.