CSS Age Limit and Exam Attempts Increased from 2026
- Abeera Marium Siddiqui
- May 19, 2025
- 4:39 pm
- 45
- Current Affairs
The CSS age limit reform has been officially approved by the National Assembly. Starting in 2026, candidates can apply for the Central Superior Services (CSS) exam until the age of 35. They will also be allowed five attempts instead of three.
This big change was introduced by MNA Syeda Nosheen Iftikhar from the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N). She moved the resolution, which the House passed without any opposition.
Until now, CSS applicants had to be under 30 and could try only three times. The new policy gives more time and chances to people who want to join Pakistan’s top federal jobs.
Lawmakers asked the government to apply these changes quickly. This will help students and working professionals plan ahead under the new rules.
Many people welcomed the CSS age limit reform. Youth groups, civil society, teachers, and former officials praised it. They called it a fair step that gives more people a chance to serve the country.
Students who are studying for CSS say the change gives them hope. They spoke about delays in education or work that made it hard to apply earlier. Now, with more time and attempts, they feel they can compete better.
A group of young people met MNAs Syeda Nosheen Iftikhar and Malik Bashir Awan. They thanked them for what they called a “youth-friendly” step. They said this change will build trust in public jobs again.
The CSS exam is known for being tough. In the 2024 test, only 395 out of 15,602 passed. That’s just a 2.53% success rate. The new rules may help ease some of the pressure and give more people a fair chance.
The CSS age limit reform also supports global goals like youth empowerment and fair public services. Many think it aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These include equal access and strong public institutions.
Even students living abroad praised the move. They said it shows Pakistan is ready to adopt better, fairer rules.
Now, the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC) must act fast. Everyone hopes the new age and attempt limits will apply in the next CSS exam cycle.
