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Exam Systems

CSE Professional

Abbreviation: CSE Pro

Civil Service Exam — Professional level. Required for government positions needing a college degree.

CSE Pro (Civil Service Exam — Professional Level) is the higher-tier civil service eligibility exam administered by the CSC. Required for most government positions requiring a college degree (SG-11 and above).

Exam structure:

  • 170 multiple-choice items
  • 3 hours
  • Subjects: Verbal Ability, Numerical Ability, Analytical Ability, General Information

Pass mark: 80% overall.

Held: Twice yearly (typically March and August).

What it means for you:

  • Eligibility is permanent once earned
  • Required for SG-11+ government roles
  • Many private sector jobs also recognise as a competence signal
  • Prep typically 2-4 months for first-time takers
  • Pass rate ~10-15% (one of the harder government exams)

Frequently asked questions

What is the passing score for the Civil Service Exam Professional?
You need an 80% general rating to pass the CSE Professional level. The exam has 170 multiple-choice items covering Verbal, Numerical, and Analytical Ability plus General Information, taken in three hours.
What is the difference between CSE Professional and Sub-Professional?
Professional eligibility is required for government positions that need a college degree (Salary Grade 11 and up); Sub-Professional covers clerical and support roles (SG-1 to SG-10), usually open to high school graduates.

See also

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