P
Loading...
Loading...
Everything about FPSC test format, MCQ papers, passing thresholds, negative marking, test centres, exam day rules, admission certificates, and what is strictly prohibited during the exam.
Understanding the FPSC test format, marking scheme, and exam day rules is critical for your preparation. Many candidates are caught off guard by negative marking or disqualified for carrying prohibited items. This guide covers everything from test structure to conduct rules.
All FPSC tests for BS-16 and above are MCQ (Multiple Choice Questions) based. The number of papers and passing criteria depend on the post level and category.
| Post Level | Category | No. of Papers | Passing Threshold | Negative Marking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BS-16 and BS-17 | All Posts | 1 Paper (100 marks) | 40% | 0.25 per wrong answer |
| BS-18 and BS-19 | Doctors | 2 Papers (100 marks each) | 40% in each paper | 0.25 per wrong answer |
| BS-18 and BS-19 | General Management | 2 Papers (100 marks each) | 40% in each paper | 0.25 per wrong answer |
| BS-18 and BS-19 | Teaching Posts | 2 Papers (100 marks each) | 50% in each paper | 0.25 per wrong answer |
| BS-18 and BS-19 | Professional/Technical | 2 Papers (100 marks each) | 40% in each paper | 0.25 per wrong answer |
| BS-20 and BS-21 | All Posts | 2 Papers (100 marks each) | 50% in each paper | 0.25 per wrong answer |
Strategy Tip: If you are unsure about an answer, it may be better to leave it blank than to guess randomly, since each wrong answer costs you 0.25 marks.
When more than 20,000 applications are received for a post, FPSC conducts tests in batches by splitting the candidates. Different question papers with the same difficulty level are prepared for each batch to maintain fairness.
APS (BS-16) vacancies from various ministries with the same recruitment rules are clubbed together in a single advertisement. Here is how it works:
Tests and examinations are held simultaneously at the following centres:
Note: FPSC has the right to increase or decrease the number of centres based on the number of candidates or administrative considerations. Candidates may also be required to appear at a different centre at the Commission's discretion, and must bear the travel expenses themselves.
Yes, with these conditions:
Admission certificates are placed on the official FPSC website at www.fpsc.gov.pk. You will be notified through:
No admission certificates are sent by post. You are responsible for downloading your admission certificate from the website within the permissible time.
Every candidate must bring:
Without both of these, you will not be allowed to enter the examination hall and will be marked as absent.
Bringing cell phones or any communication devices into the examination hall is strictly prohibited. FPSC is not responsible for the safe custody or loss of any such device.
If you are found with a cell phone or communication device inside the exam hall, it is treated as misconduct, and consequences include:
The same severe penalties apply for:
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 (deaf and dumb) | Writer/helper provided on request |
| Visually impaired (blind) | Extra time: 15 minutes per hour |
| Computer-assisted exam request | Must appear at Islamabad centre only |
Disabled candidates must submit a disability certificate issued by the competent authority designated by the Federal or Provincial Government.
Want to understand FPSC age requirements? Read our guide on FPSC Age Calculation and Age Relaxation Rules.
Test your knowledge with interactive MCQs from actual CSS and PMS exam papers.
Continue learning with these guides
Complete guide to FPSC's Psychological Assessment covering its purpose, duration, dress code, preparation tips, test types, and everything candidates need to know before appearing.
Complete FAQ guide from FPSC's Curriculum and Research division covering syllabus access, MCQ proportions for CSS and general recruitment, paper selection rules, and Islamic Studies Urdu syllabus availability.
Complete FAQ guide for FPSC general recruitment covering application process, fee payment, examination procedures, interview guidelines, results, and how to communicate with FPSC.