What is CSS?

The Central Superior Services (CSS) Examination is conducted annually by the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC) to recruit BS-17 officers across Pakistan’s premier occupational groups. It evaluates analytical ability, writing skills, and domain knowledge through a rigorous, multi-stage process.

CSS 2026 Syllabus Overview

For CSS 2026, the written examination totals 1200 marks, equally split between compulsory and optional subjects. Optional subjects must be chosen carefully from predefined groups to avoid rule violations.

Note: Follow group-wise selection rules for optional subjects to ensure the total equals exactly 600 marks.

Compulsory Subjects (600 Marks)

• English Essay – 100
• English (Precis & Composition) – 100
• General Science & Ability – 100
• Current Affairs – 100
• Pakistan Affairs – 100
• Islamic Studies or Comparative Study of Major Religions (for Non‑Muslims) – 100

Optional Subjects (600 Marks) – Choose from 7 Groups

Group I (Choose one subject of 200 marks)

• Accountancy & Auditing (200)
• Economics (200)
• Computer Science (200)
• Political Science (200)
• International Relations (200)

Group II (Choose up to 200 marks)

• Physics (200)
• Chemistry (200)
• Applied Mathematics (100)
• Pure Mathematics (100)
• Statistics (100)
• Geology (100)

Group III (Choose one of 100 marks)

• Business Administration
• Public Administration
• Governance & Public Policies
• Town Planning & Urban Management

Group IV (Choose one of 100 marks)

• History of Pakistan & India
• Islamic History & Culture
• British History
• European History
• History of USA

Group V (Choose one of 100 marks)

• Gender Studies
• Environmental Science
• Agriculture & Forestry
• Botany
• Zoology
• English Literature
• Urdu Literature

Group VI (Choose one of 100 marks)

• Law
• Constitutional Law
• International Law
• Muslim Law & Jurisprudence
• Mercantile Law
• Criminology
• Philosophy

Group VII (Choose one of 100 marks)

• Journalism & Mass Communication
• Psychology
• Geography
• Sociology
• Anthropology
• Punjabi
• Sindhi
• Pashto
• Balochi
• Persian
• Arabic

Exam Pattern & Merit

• Written Examination: 1200 marks
• Medical Test
• Psychological Assessment
• Viva Voce (Interview): 300 marks
• Final Merit = Written + Viva

How to Choose Optional Subjects (Smart Strategy)

1. Background fit: Prioritize subjects aligned with your degree or work experience.
2. Overlap: Look for overlap with compulsory papers (e.g., IR ↔ Current Affairs).
3. Past trends: Review past papers & scoring patterns to set expectations.
4. Resources: Ensure quality books, notes, and mentors are available.
5. Interest & stamina: Pick subjects you can study consistently for months.

Pro Tips for CSS 2026 Preparation

• Strengthen English Essay & Precis first—these decide outcomes for many candidates.
• Make concise notes for Current Affairs & Pakistan Affairs from authentic sources.
• Practice GS&A MCQs weekly; build speed and accuracy under time limits.
• Attempt past papers under exam conditions; review with marking criteria.
• Use headings, diagrams, and relevant quotes to improve paper presentation.

Download CSS 2026 Syllabus PDF

Get the official syllabus from FPSC. Visit FPSC Website and navigate to CSS Competitive Examination → Syllabus. Save a copy and keep it handy while planning.

FAQs: CSS 2026 Syllabus

How many total marks are in CSS 2026?

Written exam = 1200 marks (600 compulsory + 600 optional). Interview (Viva Voce) = 300 marks.

Can I select two subjects from the same group?

Only where the group allows up to 200 marks collectively (e.g., Group II). Always ensure your selected combination totals exactly 600 marks.

Where can I download the official syllabus?

From the FPSC official website under CSS → Syllabus.

What is the best optional subject?

There is no universal “best.” Choose based on your background, available resources, overlap with compulsory papers, and interest.