The Complete Guide to Civil Service Exam in the Philippines: Coverage and How to Pass

The Complete Guide to Civil Service Exam in the Philippines

Coverage, Requirements, and Success Tips

What is the Civil Service Exam?

The Civil Service Exam in the Philippines, formally known as the Career Service Examination (CSE), is a standardized test administered by the Civil Service Commission (CSC). Passing the CSE grants eligibility for permanent appointments to government positions. The exam ensures only qualified and competent individuals may enter the merit-based Philippine civil service.

Conducted at least twice a year nationwide.
Given in two formats: Pen and Paper Test (PPT) and Computerized Examination (COMEX).
Two levels: Professional and Sub-Professional.

The CSE is a crucial requirement for most government jobs and is recognized as a key step to a secure and fulfilling public sector career.

Civil Service Exam Levels: Professional vs Sub-Professional

Level	Eligibility Granted	Who Can Take	Number of Items	Time Limit	Languages
Professional	Second-level (Officer, Technical, Supervisory positions)	Generally, college graduates or those aiming for higher government posts	170	3 hours, 10 minutes	English & Filipino
Sub-Professional	First-level (Clerical, Trades, Custodial roles)	High school graduates, undergraduates, those seeking clerical & support roles	165	2 hours, 40 minutes	English & Filipino

Tip: If unsure of which to take, opt for the Professional level for broader eligibility.

Exam Coverage by Level

A. Professional Level

Verbal Ability: Vocabulary, grammar, sentence completion, error recognition, paragraph organization, reading comprehension
Numerical Ability: Basic math operations, word problems, number series
Analytical Ability: Word association, logic, abstract reasoning, identifying assumptions & drawing conclusions, data interpretation
General Information:
- Philippine Constitution
- Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials (RA 6713)
- Peace and Human Rights Issues and Concepts
- Environmental Management and Protection

B. Sub-Professional Level

Verbal Ability: Same as Professional level
Numerical Ability: Similar to Professional, slightly less complex
Clerical Ability: Filing, spelling, clerical operations (alphabetizing, basic office skills)
General Information: Same as Professional

All questions are multiple-choice, in English and Filipino.

Civil Service Exam Scope — Sample topic coverage for CSE-PPT (source: governmentph.com)

Passing Rate and Eligibility

Passing Score: 80%
Your eligibility is for life–there is no expiration for your Career Service Eligibility.
Can be used when applying for relevant government positions in any agency that require eligibility.

Recent update:

Non-regular government workers with at least 10 years of service may apply for a preference rating, where an additional score can bring them to the passing mark.

Eligibility Requirements

Filipino citizen
At least 18 years old on the day of application
No criminal record
No dismissal from military or government service on administrative cases
Has not taken the same level of the exam within the last three months before exam date

Exemptions

Bar/board exam passers (e.g., lawyers, doctors, engineers)
Honor graduates (summa cum laude, magna cum laude, cum laude)
Barangay officials and other categories specified in special laws

Always check the official CSC guidelines for the most updated list of exemptions and requirements.

How to Pass the Civil Service Exam: Proven Tips

Understand the Exam Coverage – Start your review by focusing on the main areas (verbal, numerical, analytical or clerical, and general information).
Use Reliable Review Materials – Make use of credible online reviewers or invest in recommended review books. See resources below.
Create a Realistic Study Plan – Schedule daily study sessions of 2–3 hours to prevent mental fatigue.
Answer Practice Tests – Simulate the exam with time limits to build your stamina and speed. Focus on your weakest areas.
Ask Experienced Takers – Learn test-taking strategies and tips from those who’ve already passed.
Stay Physically and Mentally Prepared – Get adequate sleep, eat a healthy meal before the exam. Arrive early at your testing center.
Follow Instructions Carefully – Always read and follow instructions on the test booklet and answer sheet.
Use Time Wisely During the Exam – Don’t spend too long on one question; skip and return to hard items if time allows.
Stay Calm and Positive – Manage test-day anxiety with deep breaths and a positive attitude.

Sample review tips video for Civil Service Exam

Remember: Preparation, practice, and presence of mind are key to success in the Civil Service Exam!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many times can I take the Civil Service Exam?

There is no cap on the number of times you can take the CSE, but you must wait three months between same-level attempts.

How much is the application fee?

As of 2024, the application fee for the Pen-and-Paper Test (PPT) is ₱500. The fee updates occasionally, so check the CSC website for latest rates.

Can I use a calculator during the exam?

No, calculators and any forms of electronic devices are strictly prohibited inside the testing venue.

Where can I get official announcements and results?

Visit the Civil Service Commission official website for news, schedules, and results.

Helpful Resources and References

For the latest updates, direct exam announcements, and downloadable forms, always refer to https://www.csc.gov.ph/