Federal Job Applications Plummet: A Troubling Trend for Pakistan's Civil Service

In a striking trend, the number of applicants for Pakistan's prestigious Central Superior Services (CSS) examination has witnessed a significant decline over the past four years. According to data from the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC), registrations for the CSS exams have dropped by a staggering 48%, from 35,059 in 2022 to 18,139 in 2025. This downturn is mirrored in the number of candidates appearing for the examination, which decreased from 20,262 to 12,792 during the same period. Despite this decline, the competition for limited spots remains fierce, with only 3,005 candidates being nominated out of 196,193 registered applicants in 2025. The FPSC's recruitment analytics reveal a similar pattern in general recruitment, with registrations plummeting by over 55% in just two years. The data highlights a persistent gap between registration and appearance, with only about 45% of registered CSS candidates appearing in the examination in 2023. The dwindling number of applicants for federal jobs raises concerns about the country's civil service and the attractiveness of these careers to young Pakistanis. As the competition for limited vacancies continues to intensify, it is essential to examine the underlying factors contributing to this trend and explore strategies to revitalize interest in these prestigious careers.