Table of Contents11 sections
Reaching the interview stage at PPSC is a significant achievement. But the process can be stressful if you don't know what to expect. This comprehensive guide covers everything from how many candidates are called to what happens if you're rejected.
Interview Call-Up
How many candidates are called per post?
The number depends on available posts, but as a general rule:
Usually 5 candidates are called for interview against one post.
How are candidates informed?
Candidates are notified about their interview through:
- SMS - sent to your registered mobile number
- Email - sent to your registered email address
- PPSC Website - general information about interviews is posted on the website
Tip: Keep your phone number and email address updated. Don't block promotional SMS from PPSC.
Documents Required for Interview
You must bring the following original documents to the interview:
Mandatory Documents:
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Original CNIC | Must be valid (not expired) |
| Interview Call-Up Letter | Print from PPSC website |
| Educational Degrees/Certificates | All original degrees and transcripts |
| Domicile Certificate | Original |
Conditional Documents (as applicable):
| Document | When Required |
|---|---|
| Departmental Permission Certificate (DPC/NOC) | If you're a government servant |
| Medical Certificate | If required by the post |
| Disability Certificate | If applying under Special Persons quota |
Departmental Permission (NOC)
Do government servants need NOC?
Yes. The rule is clear:
No Civil Servant is eligible for appointment to any other service or post unless he/she applies with permission in writing of the competent authority.
This applies to:
- Regular government employees
- Contract government employees
- Daily wage government employees
All must obtain written permission (NOC/DPC) from their competent authority before applying.
Medical Certificates
What if there's a deficiency in my Medical Certificate?
PPSC's rules on Medical Certificates are strict:
- All physical/visual measurements (Height, Chest, Near & Distant Vision) must be mentioned as per the Advertisement
- Any change or alteration in a Medical Certificate issued after the closing date is NOT acceptable
Key Rule: Get your Medical Certificate prepared carefully the first time. A revised or altered certificate issued post-closing date will be rejected.
Rescheduling of Interviews
Can the interview date be changed?
The interview date fixed by PPSC is normally not changed. However:
- Genuine requests with proof of valid reasons may be accepted
- The decision of the Chairman, PPSC to accept or reject such a request is final
- Submit your request along with documentary proof of the reason
Examples of typically accepted reasons: serious illness (with medical evidence), court summons, death in immediate family, etc.
Provisional Interview & Document Deadlines
How much time is given for missing documents?
If you're given a provisional interview with an undertaking to produce certain documents:
10 working days are given to fulfill the document requirement mentioned in the letter of undertaking/rejection.
What if the deadline falls on a public holiday?
If the deadline for document submission falls on a public holiday, the next working day will be considered the due date for submission.
Additional Marks Policy
Extra marks for academic distinction?
No. No additional marks are given for having a distinction in academic career.
Extra marks for higher qualification?
No. No additional marks are given for having a higher qualification than what's required.
Marks for children of deceased civil servants?
As per the Punjab Gazette Notification No. SOR-III(S&GAD)2-60/2024, dated 26th July 2024, issued by the Regulations Wing (S&GAD):
No additional marks will be awarded for being a son/daughter of a deceased or incapacitated Civil Servant (Government of the Punjab) during service.
Rejection at Interview
What happens if you're rejected?
On the day of interview:
- Rejected candidates are served with a Rejection Letter in person
- They are also given a personal hearing by the Presiding Member, if desired
- No text message is sent in addition to the rejection letter - only the letter and email
Does PPSC send rejection SMS?
No. PPSC does not send text messages in addition to the rejection email. The rejection letter is served in person on the interview day.
Interviews at Regional Offices
PPSC may conduct interviews at its Regional Offices when:
- It is feasible to do so
- A sufficient number of candidates are available
This is evaluated on a case-by-case basis and depends on the specific post and regional applicant numbers.
Interview Preparation Tips
- Arrive early - at least 30-60 minutes before your scheduled time
- Organize your documents - arrange them in a folder in order
- Carry originals AND photocopies - be prepared for both
- Dress professionally - formal attire appropriate for a government position
- Know your application details - be prepared to answer questions about your qualifications and experience
- Be honest - if you don't know an answer, say so rather than guessing
- Bring all conditional documents - don't assume you won't be asked for them
Quick Reference Table
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Candidates called per post | Usually 5 |
| Notification method | SMS + Email + Website |
| NOC required for govt. servants? | Yes (including contract/daily wage) |
| Medical certificate alterations? | Not accepted after closing date |
| Interview rescheduling? | Only with valid reason + proof; Chairman's decision is final |
| Time for deficient documents | 10 working days |
| Additional marks for distinction? | No |
| Additional marks for higher degree? | No |
| Rejection notification | In-person letter only (no SMS) |
For more PPSC preparation guides and interview tips, visit PakExam - your trusted companion for government job success.