CSE Subprofessional (Career Service Examination — Subprofessional Level) is the CSC eligibility exam for first-level (clerical) government posts.
Exam format:
- 145 scored multiple-choice items, plus 20 personal-data questions
- 2 hours 40 minutes, on paper
- Verbal Ability, Numerical Ability, Clerical Ability, General Information
Pass mark: general rating of 80.00. Fee: ₱500. Who can take it: Filipino citizens at least 18 years old.
Next sittings: 14 March 2027 and 8 August 2027 (same days as the Professional exam).
Recent pass rate: 12.49% in March 2026.
What it means for you:
- Eligibility doesn't expire once earned
- It covers clerical and support posts only; for technical and professional posts you need Professional eligibility or a PRC license