FPSC Unveils CSS 2026 Exam Timeline: Key Dates and Deadlines to Know
The Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC) has officially rolled out the complete schedule for the Central Superior Services (CSS) 2026 examination cycle—giving aspiring civil servants ample time to prepare for Pakistan’s most competitive bureaucratic entry exam.
Two-Stage Process Kicks Off in August
This year’s CSS process will, as usual, be split into two key stages: the preliminary screening test (MPT) and the written examination.
The first major milestone arrives on August 10, 2025, when FPSC will issue a public call for online applications for the MCQ-Based Preliminary Test (MPT). Candidates will have a two-week window, from August 11 to August 25, to submit their applications. The MPT itself is scheduled for November 9, 2025.
Passing the MPT is mandatory in order to proceed to the next phase.
Written Exam Applications Open in December
Those who clear the MPT hurdle will move on to the all-important written exams. According to FPSC, a fresh public notice regarding written applications will be released on December 14, 2025. Candidates will need to apply between December 15 and December 30.
The written exams for CSS 2026 are set to commence on February 4, 2026.
What This Means for Candidates
With the full timeline now public, candidates can plan their preparation strategically. The MPT is designed to filter candidates before they attempt the far more rigorous written stage. Past years have shown that strong performance in the preliminary test often reflects a candidate’s readiness for the next phase.
If you’re planning to appear for CSS 2026, now is the time to structure your study plan, as the competition only gets tougher from here.
