ISLAMABAD: The CSS age limit has officially been extended. On Friday, the National Assembly approved an increase in the maximum age for Central Superior Services exam candidates—from 30 to 35 years. This change will apply starting in 2026.
The move was introduced by PML-N MNA Syeda Nosheen Iftikhar. She requested the suspension of routine procedures to present her proposal. The House supported the motion without any objections.
In addition to the new CSS age limit, candidates will now be given five attempts at the exam. Previously, they were allowed only four. Lawmakers stressed that these changes should be enforced without delay. They believe this will help aspirants plan better and prepare well in advance.
The CSS examination is known as the academic gateway to Pakistan’s most powerful civil services. These include administration, foreign affairs, customs, and more. For years, the exam mainly attracted recent graduates and early-career professionals.
Until now, the upper age limit was 30 years. The updated CSS age limit of 35 and the increased number of attempts aim to expand opportunities. It allows more individuals to participate and compete.
Parliamentarians viewed the change as long overdue. They said it would benefit students, job seekers, and professionals who may need more time to prepare. The added flexibility in the CSS age limit is expected to make the process more inclusive.
