The Central Superior Services (CSS) competitive examination is held every year by the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC) to recruit officers for Pakistan’s federal civil services. The written exam has six compulsory papers — English Essay, English (Precis & Composition), General Science & Ability, Current Affairs, Pakistan Affairs and Islamic Studies (or Comparative Study of Major Religions) — and optional papers chosen from groups of subjects.

CSS Nexus has 232 CSS past papers from 1971 to 2026, covering 60 subjects. They are the official question papers published by FPSC, arranged by subject and year, so you can see how each paper is set and which topics come up again and again.

Start with the compulsory papers, read at least the last five years of each of your optional subjects, and then practise answering under exam time. Our CSS Solved Past Papers section has outlines and model answers to many of these questions.

Frequently asked questions

Are the CSS past papers free?+

Yes. Every CSS past paper on CSS Nexus is free to read online and download as a PDF, with no sign-up.

Who sets the CSS papers?+

The Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC). The papers here are FPSC’s official question papers; many also open on fpsc.gov.pk.

How many years of CSS past papers should I solve?+

At least the last five to ten years of each compulsory and optional subject. Older papers are still useful for spotting topics that keep coming back, especially in Essay, Current Affairs and Pakistan Affairs.

Are there solved CSS past papers?+

Yes. The CSS Solved Past Papers section has outlines and model answers to past questions, grouped by subject and year, and you can submit your own answers for review.

What is the CSS MPT?+

The MCQ-based Preliminary Test (MPT) is a screening test candidates must pass before the CSS written exam. CSS Nexus has MPT past papers, mock tests and practice exercises under CSS → CSS MPT Preparation.

How do I find a CSS paper for a particular subject or year?+

Type the subject in the Subject box at the top of this page and pick a year from the Year box. Each paper also has its own page, and each subject has a page listing all its years.