Candidates planning to appear in the CSS examination in 2027 will continue to face the existing eligibility limits, as the Establishment Division has declined recommendations to make the rules more flexible.
A parliamentary committee had proposed allowing candidates up to the age of 35 and increasing the maximum number of examination attempts from three to five. However, the Establishment Division has decided that the current limits should remain in place.
The division raised several concerns about expanding eligibility. It said a higher age limit and additional attempts could significantly increase the number of applicants, putting greater pressure on the examination and evaluation process.
Officials also pointed to the possibility of candidates spending longer periods preparing for the competitive examination. According to the division, this could reduce the length of their effective government service if they enter the civil service at an older age.
Another concern relates to equal opportunities for candidates from different financial backgrounds. The Establishment Division argued that extending the preparation period could give an advantage to financially stronger applicants who are able to spend several years preparing for the CSS examination without entering the workforce.
With the recommendations rejected, the maximum age for CSS candidates will remain 30 years, while applicants will continue to have three attempts to qualify for the examination.
The decision means there will be no major change in the eligibility framework for the CSS 2027 examination, despite calls for greater flexibility from the parliamentary committee.
