ISLAMABAD — The Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC) has officially issued a public notice inviting online applications for the MCQs-Based Preliminary Test (MPT) for the CSS Competitive Examination 2027. Candidates intending to take the exam must submit their applications well before the August 20, 2026 deadline. The preliminary test is scheduled to take place on Sunday, September 27, 2026, across 19 designated cities. Officials emphasized that qualifying the MPT is a mandatory prerequisite for appearing in the main CSS CE-2027 written examination. The entire process will strictly follow the CSS CE Rules, 2019, with no exceptions. Key Eligibility Criteria Applicants must hold at least a Bachelor's degree with a Second Division. Candidates must be between 21 and 30 years of age, though a two-year age relaxation is available for specific categories outlined under Rule 6. The official cutoff date for determining age, qualification, domicile, and general eligibility is December 31, 2026. Under Rules 11(20) and 11(21), all admissions are strictly provisional; candidates found ineligible at any stage will face immediate cancellation of their candidature. Application and Payment Procedure To apply, candidates must register or log in on the FPSC portal, update their profile, complete the MPT-2027 form, and generate a mandatory 16-digit PSID code. The application fee of Rs. 250 must be paid through 1-Link facilities, including ATMs, internet banking, member bank branches, or mobile apps like Easypaisa and JazzCash. FPSC noted that payments made via old Challan Forms (TR-6), cheques, bank drafts, or pay orders will be rejected. Once the fee is paid, candidates must log back into the portal to finalize and submit their forms. Important Instructions for Applicants Admission Certificates: Downloadable directly from the FPSC website at least 10 days before the exam. No individual intimations will be sent. Center Selection: The chosen examination center is final and cannot be changed after submission. Data Accuracy: Correct CNIC and date of birth details are critical, as incorrect entries will result in rejection. Strict Policy: FPSC maintains a zero-tolerance policy against cheating or unfair practices. For additional details or queries, candidates can reach out via the FPSC UAN line at 051-111-000-248.