Table of Contents12 sections
Exam day is where months of preparation face the reality of PPSC's strict procedural rules. Knowing the rules isn't just about answering questions - it's about making sure your answers actually count, your identity is verified, and you don't get disqualified for something as simple as carrying a mobile phone.
Types of PPSC Examinations
PPSC conducts two main categories:
Written Test (One Paper)
- Can be Subjective, MCQ (Objective), or a combination of both
- Qualifying marks: 40%
Written Examination (Multiple Papers)
- Comprehensive examination (e.g., PMS/Combined Competitive Examination)
- Must obtain 40% in each paper AND 50% in aggregate to qualify for interview
- Includes written examination, psychological test, appraisal of record, interview, and viva voce
Note: Even for posts where a written examination is not prescribed in the Service Rules, PPSC may still decide to hold a written test. This decision rests entirely with the Commission.
Negative Marking in MCQ Papers
| Rule | Detail |
|---|---|
| Deduction per wrong answer | 0.25 marks |
| Applies to | All MCQ/Objective papers |
| No deduction for | Unanswered questions (unless stray marks are detected on the answer sheet) |
This means guessing blindly on 4 wrong answers costs you 1 full mark. Be strategic - skip questions you're completely unsure about.
Qualifying Marks
| Assessment Type | Qualifying Marks |
|---|---|
| MCQ/Objective paper written test | 40% |
| Each Subjective Paper | 40% |
| Written Examination aggregate | 50% |
| Interview/Viva Voce | 50% |
Who Gets Called for Interview?
For all examinations (except PMS/Combined Competitive Examination), candidates are called for interview at a ratio of 1:5 - meaning 5 candidates are called for every 1 post available.
Provisional Admission to Exam
You are admitted to the written examination provisionally - at your own risk. This means:
- Your application is not scrutinized before the exam
- Full scrutiny happens at the time of interview
- If you're found ineligible during scrutiny, your candidature will be rejected regardless of how well you performed
Advice: Don't assume passing the written test means you're eligible. Verify all eligibility requirements yourself before applying.
Admission Letters / Roll Number Slips
- Admission letters are uploaded collectively on the PPSC website
- No individual admission letters are issued
- You must download your Roll Number Slip from www.ppsc.gop.pk
How You'll Be Notified
- SMS and Email - sent at least 5 days before the exam with date, time, and venue
- Reminder SMS/Email - sent 3 days before the exam
- Website alert - posted on PPSC website with download instructions
If you don't receive any notification, contact PPSC at least 3 days before the scheduled date:
- UAN: 042-111-988-722
- Office Phone: 042-99202761-62
CNIC Requirements for Exam Day
Original Valid CNIC Is Mandatory
You must produce your original, valid Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) at the examination centre.
What If Your CNIC Is Expired or Lost?
You can be provisionally allowed to appear if you produce:
| Document | Accepted? |
|---|---|
| Original valid CNIC | ✅ Required |
| Original valid Passport | ✅ Provisional |
| Original expired CNIC (expired not more than 6 months from exam date) | ✅ Provisional |
| Original computerized Domicile Certificate with photograph | ✅ Provisional |
| Any other document | ❌ Not accepted |
If admitted provisionally, you must:
- Sign a written undertaking that you'll produce original valid CNIC at the interview
- Failure to produce valid CNIC at interview = candidature cancelled
CNIC at Interview
If your CNIC is expired at the time of interview, you may be interviewed provisionally if you produce a NADRA receipt for CNIC renewal within 7 working days after the interview (extendable with Chairman's approval).
MCQ Paper Code - Critical Rule
| Action Required | Consequence of Failure |
|---|---|
| Write the paper code on your answer sheet | Answer sheet not marked |
| Fill the relevant bubble code | Candidature cancelled |
Both the written code and bubble must be filled. This is covered in detail in our MCQ Answer Sheet Filling Guide.
Objections on Questions
If you believe any question or its answer in the MCQ paper is incorrect:
- Raise your objection in writing during the exam OR on the same day after the exam
- No objections will be entertained after the exam day
What to Bring to the Exam
Must Bring
- ✅ Original valid CNIC (or accepted alternative)
- ✅ Downloaded Roll Number Slip
- ✅ Black marker/pointer (preferred) or blue marker
- ✅ Ballpoint pen (blue or black ink only)
Must NOT Bring
The following are strictly prohibited at PPSC examination centres:
- ❌ Mobile phones - even if switched off
- ❌ Electronic devices/gadgets of any kind
- ❌ Weapons/arms
- ❌ Any material not explicitly permitted
Severe Consequence: If found with a mobile phone (whether using it or not), an FIR may be lodged against you under relevant law. Additionally, PPSC disciplinary action will be taken.
Rules for Specially Abled Persons
Declaring Disability
- Mark "Yes" in the relevant column of the online application form
- Submit a disability certificate from the Provincial Council for Rehabilitation of Specially Abled Persons (Social Welfare Department)
- Certificate must be issued on or before the closing date
Reader/Writer Provision
- Must be requested at the time of submitting online application
- Requests on exam day will NOT be entertained
- Reader/Writer qualification must be one step lower than the prescribed qualification for the post
Extra Time Allowed
| Paper Type | Duration | Extra Time |
|---|---|---|
| MCQ Paper | 90 minutes | +15 minutes |
| Subjective Paper | 180 minutes | +30 minutes |
Extra time is calculated at 10 minutes per hour for visually impaired candidates or those requiring a reader/writer.
After the Exam: What Happens Next
- Results are posted on the PPSC website
- Shortlisted candidates are notified via SMS, Email, and website
- Interview schedule is uploaded at least 7 days before interviews
- Interview letters can be downloaded from the website (no individual letters are sent)
You Must Return
- Your solved Answer Sheet - must be returned at the examination centre
- Your MCQ question paper - must also be returned
Warning: Failure to return the answer sheet and/or MCQ paper is a violation that can result in disqualification and debarment from future PPSC exams.
Key Takeaway
Exam day is as much about following procedures as it is about answering questions. Bring your CNIC and a black marker. Leave your phone at home or in the car. Download your Roll Number Slip in advance. Fill the paper code correctly. Return all materials. And if you have an objection about a question, raise it on the same day - there are no second chances.