Table of Contents11 sections
The CSS exam has a complex qualifying marks system where you must meet minimum thresholds at multiple levels. Failing to achieve the required marks in even a single compulsory paper disqualifies you, regardless of how well you perform in other papers. This guide explains the complete marking criteria and exam day rules.
What Are the Qualifying Marks for CSS?
The CSS exam uses a three-tier qualifying system. You must meet all three criteria to pass:
Tier 1: Individual Compulsory Paper Threshold
| Paper Type | Qualifying Marks |
|---|---|
| Each compulsory paper (100 marks) | 40% (40 out of 100) |
- You must score at least 40 marks in each of the 6 compulsory papers
- Failing even one compulsory paper means you are disqualified
- You cannot compensate a low score in one compulsory paper with a high score in another
Tier 2: Individual Optional Paper Threshold
| Paper Type | Qualifying Marks |
|---|---|
| Each optional paper (200 marks) | 33% (66 out of 200) |
- You must score at least 66 marks in each of the 3 optional papers
- Failing even one optional paper means you are disqualified
Tier 3: Overall Aggregate Threshold
| Total Written Marks | Qualifying Aggregate |
|---|---|
| 1,200 marks (all papers combined) | 50% (600 out of 1,200) |
- Even if you pass every individual paper, your total aggregate must be at least 600 out of 1,200
- This is the most commonly failed criterion
Qualifying Marks Summary Table
| Criterion | Total Marks | Minimum Required | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Each compulsory paper | 100 | 40 | 40% |
| Each optional paper | 200 | 66 | 33% |
| Overall aggregate (all 9 papers) | 1,200 | 600 | 50% |
What Happens If You Fail?
Scenario 1: Fail One Compulsory Paper
- Even if you score excellently in all other papers, you are declared unsuccessful
- Your aggregate score does not matter in this case
Scenario 2: Fail One Optional Paper
- Same as above - failing any single optional paper means disqualification
Scenario 3: Pass All Individual Papers but Below 50% Aggregate
- If you score above 40% in each compulsory and above 33% in each optional, but your total is below 600, you still fail
Scenario 4: Pass Everything
- Only when you meet all three criteria are you declared as having passed the written examination
- Passing the written exam qualifies you for the next stages (medical, psychological, viva voce)
Is There Negative Marking in CSS?
Unlike regular FPSC MCQ-based tests, CSS papers are descriptive/essay-type. The marking approach is:
- Papers are evaluated by subject experts appointed by FPSC
- There is no MCQ-based negative marking
- Marks are awarded based on the quality, relevance, and presentation of your answers
- Examiners follow marking guidelines provided by FPSC
What Should You Bring on Exam Day?
Every candidate must bring:
- Admission Certificate - Downloaded from the FPSC website
- Original CNIC or Passport - Valid and not expired
- Writing materials - Blue or black ballpoint pens (as specified)
- Additional items as specified in the admission certificate
Note: No admission certificate is sent by post. You must download it from the FPSC website.
What is Strictly Prohibited in the CSS Exam Hall?
Cell Phones and Electronic Devices
Bringing cell phones or any communication devices into the examination hall is strictly prohibited. Consequences include:
- Expulsion from the examination hall
- Cancellation of the paper
- Permanent disqualification from all future FPSC examinations
- Your CNIC number placed on a block list
Other Prohibited Items
- Electronic calculators (unless specifically allowed)
- Smart watches or digital devices
- Notes, books, or reference material
- Any written material on paper or body
Other Forms of Misconduct
The following actions lead to severe penalties:
- Impersonation - appearing in place of another candidate
- Use of unfair means - copying, using unauthorized material
- Attempting to copy questions from the exam booklet
- Furnishing false information in the application
- Misbehaving in the examination hall
- Using objectionable language towards invigilators or staff
- Forging certificates or tampering with entries
What Are the Exam Day Conduct Rules?
Before the Exam
- Arrive at the examination centre well before the reporting time
- Verify your seat number and examination hall
- Keep your admission certificate and CNIC accessible for checking
During the Exam
- Write only in the prescribed language (English unless specified otherwise)
- Use only the answer booklet provided by the invigilator
- Do not write your name or any identifying mark on the answer booklet (use only your roll number)
- Follow all instructions given by the invigilator
- Do not leave the hall without permission
After the Exam
- Hand over your answer booklet to the invigilator before leaving
- Do not take the question paper outside the hall if prohibited
- Do not discuss questions with others inside the examination premises
What About Candidates with Disabilities?
FPSC provides accommodations for disabled candidates:
| Disability Type | Accommodation |
|---|---|
| Visually impaired (blind) | Writer/helper provided on request |
| Physically impaired | Writer/helper provided on request |
| Hearing/speech impaired | Writer/helper provided on request |
| Visually impaired (blind) | Extra time: 15 minutes per hour |
| Computer-assisted exam | Must appear at Islamabad centre only |
- A disability certificate from the competent authority must be submitted
- Requests for accommodation must be made at the time of application
Can You Request Re-evaluation of Your Papers?
No. FPSC does not entertain any request for:
- Re-evaluation of papers
- Re-checking of marks
- Showing answer booklets to candidates
The marks awarded by the examiners are final. However, you can access your marks after the final result is announced on the FPSC website.
How Are CSS Results Announced?
- Written exam results are uploaded on the FPSC official website
- Results show pass and fail candidates with their roll numbers
- Individual marks are not shown at the written exam result stage
- After the final result (post viva voce), marks for all stages are made available
Quick Summary
- Qualifying marks: 40% in each compulsory paper, 33% in each optional paper, 50% aggregate
- Failing any single paper results in disqualification
- CSS papers are descriptive (essay-type), not MCQ
- Cell phones in the exam hall lead to permanent disqualification
- Bring admission certificate + original CNIC on exam day
- No re-evaluation or re-checking of marks is allowed
- Disabled candidates can request writer/helper and extra time
To learn about the CSS medical examination and physical standards, read our guide on CSS Medical Examination and Physical Standards.