Recommendations to raise the upper age limit for CSS exam candidates from 30 to 35 years, and to increase the number of attempts from three to five, have been rejected. The proposals were put forward by a sub-committee of the Senate Standing Committee, along with the Standing Committee on the Cabinet Secretariat, but the Establishment Division has decided to retain the existing policy.

FPSC Backs Current CSS Policy in 174th Session

The Establishment Division informed the parliamentary committee in writing that the recommendations were impractical, noting that decisions on age limits and exam attempts fall under federal government policy jurisdiction, while the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC) implements approved policy.

Officials said the FPSC's 174th session also decided to maintain the existing framework.

Officials Cite Exam Burden and Career Concerns

Authorities argued that raising the age limit could significantly increase the number of candidates, adding pressure on exam administration and paper evaluation. Concerns were also raised that allowing more attempts could lead candidates to repeatedly waste productive years, while officers joining civil service at an older age would have shorter careers, potentially affecting the long-term availability of experienced officers for senior position