Overview
The Career Service Examination - Pen and Paper Test (CSE-PPT) is a written exam run by the Civil Service Commission (CSC) of the Philippines. Passing it earns civil service eligibility, which feeds a register of eligibles for first and second level posts in the civil service. Passing does not by itself give you a government job; you must also meet the requirements of the position you apply for.
Levels or stages
The exam is offered at two levels.
Professional level
Gives eligibility for second level positions.
Subprofessional level
Gives eligibility for first level positions.
Who can apply
Filipino citizens.
At least 18 years old when filing the application.
Of good moral character, with no disqualification such as a past dismissal from government service.
No educational attainment is required, so students can sit the exam.
You must not have taken the same level of the exam within three months before the exam date.
Exam pattern
Reports of the CSC announcement list the areas of coverage below. The number of items and the time limit are not stated in the sources used, so they are left out.
| Area | Professional | Subprofessional |
|---|---|---|
| Numerical ability | Yes | Yes |
| Analytical ability | Yes | No |
| Clerical ability | No | Yes |
| Verbal ability | Yes | Yes |
| General information | Yes | Yes |
Syllabus
Numerical ability (both levels): basic operations and word problems.
Analytical ability (Professional): word association, identifying assumptions and conclusions, logic and data interpretation.
Clerical ability (Subprofessional): filing and spelling.
Verbal ability (both levels): grammar, vocabulary, paragraph organisation and reading comprehension.
General information (both levels): the Philippine Constitution, Republic Act 6713 (the code of conduct and ethical standards for public officials), peace and human rights, and environmental management and protection.
Marking and results
The passing mark is a general rating of 80.00. Reports state that the list of passers is posted within about 60 days of the exam, and that individual ratings become available roughly 15 days later through the CSC online rating system (OCSERGS).
Important dates
For 2026, the exam is held twice.
| Exam date | Application period | Target result release |
|---|---|---|
| March 8, 2026 | Not stated in the sources used | Not stated in the sources used |
| August 9, 2026 | May 14 to June 10, 2026 | October 12, 2026 |
Applications are first come, first served and may close early once a regional or field office reaches its target number of applicants.
Fees
The August 2026 announcement lists an examination fee of PhP 500.
How to apply
Filing depends on your region and is done with the CSC regional or field office. Reports list eServe for several regions (including NCR), OCSEAS for others, and a separate arrangement in Caraga; some offices also take walk-ins. Applicants need the original and a photocopy of a valid ID, four passport-size photos, and a completed CS Form No. 100 (Revised 2023). Check your regional office for the exact method.
After the exam
If you pass, collect your Certificate of Eligibility from your CSC Regional Office and use it when applying for government posts.
Do I need a college degree to take the CSE-PPT?
No. The exam is open to Filipino citizens aged 18 or older regardless of educational attainment.
What is the passing score?
A general rating of 80.00.
Can I retake it right away?
Not at the same level. You must wait at least three months from the date of the previous exam.