The CSS 2026 written examination schedule has finally been announced, ending weeks of uncertainty for aspirants across Pakistan. The Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC) has confirmed that the CSS 2026 Written Competitive Examination will start from Wednesday, February 4, 2026. Exams will be held at the same time in 19 cities, including Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, and Quetta. This update is a big relief for candidates who cleared the MPT 2025 and are now preparing for the most crucial stage of the CSS journey.
For many students, CSS is not just an exam. It is a dream, a life plan, and years of hard work. With the date sheet now public, preparation has entered its final and most serious phase.
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Table of Contents
CSS 2026 Compulsory Papers Date Sheet (Official)
The compulsory papers will be conducted in the first six days of the examination. Morning timing is usually 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, except Friday.
| Day & Date | Paper | Timing |
| Wed, Feb 4 | English Essay | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Thu, Feb 5 | English Precis & Composition | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Fri, Feb 6 | General Science & Ability | 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM |
| Sat, Feb 7 | Current Affairs | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Sun, Feb 8 | Pakistan Affairs | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Mon, Feb 9 | Islamic Studies / Comparative Religions | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
Important Note:
On Friday, February 6, the paper will start at 10:00 AM due to Jumu’ah prayers.
Optional Subjects Timeline – What to Expect
The optional papers will begin from Tuesday, February 10, 2026. FPSC has confirmed that optional subjects will be conducted according to CSS Rules 2019, following Groups I to VII.
| Detail | Information |
| Start Date | February 10, 2026 |
| Sessions | Morning & Evening |
| Pattern | Same day double papers (for most subjects) |
| Rules Applied | CSS Rules 2019 |
| Cities | Same 19 exam centers |
Candidates should check their selected subjects carefully and plan rest, revision, and writing practice accordingly.
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Major Reforms Introduced in CSS 2026
CSS 2026 is being called a historic attempt because of major policy changes approved by the government and FPSC.
- Age limit increased from 30 to 35 years (one-time relaxation)
- Total attempts increased from 3 to 4 attempts
- MPT qualification mandatory, with at least 33% marks
These changes have allowed thousands of new candidates to appear, but they have also increased competition. Smart preparation is now more important than ever.
Important Instructions for Candidates
FPSC has issued clear instructions to avoid problems on exam day:
- Reach exam center 30 minutes early
- Bring original CNIC, printed admission certificate, and original challan
- Mobile phones, smartwatches, Bluetooth devices are strictly banned
- Any violation may lead to immediate disqualification
Admission certificates will be available on the FPSC website from January 15, 2026.
CSS 2026 Exam Centers (City-Wise)
Exams will be held in major cities including Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Rawalpindi, Multan, Faisalabad, Peshawar, Quetta, Sukkur, Hyderabad, Abbottabad, Muzaffarabad, and Gilgit. Candidates must appear in the city they selected during registration.
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Final Thoughts for CSS Aspirants
With less than a month left, this is not the time to panic. It is the time to revise smartly. Focus on past papers, polish essay outlines, update current affairs, and stay mentally strong. FPSC has made it clear that the schedule is final, so preparation should now be focused and disciplined.
Hard work done with calm thinking often gives the best results.
FAQs
Q: When will CSS 2026 written exam start?
CSS 2026 written exam will start on February 4, 2026.
Q: Is MPT compulsory for CSS 2026?
Yes, only candidates who passed MPT 2025 can appear.
Q: Has the CSS syllabus changed for 2026?
No, the syllabus remains the same as CSS Rules 2019.
Q: When will optional papers begin?
Optional papers will start from February 10, 2026.
Q: Where can I download my admission certificate?
From the official FPSC website, starting January 15, 2026.
This article is for informational purposes only. SmartFixers.pk is not an official government website and is not affiliated with any government department. Readers are advised to verify all information from official government sources before taking any action.
Our editorial team publishes original and informational content for educational purposes only.
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