Federal jobs in Pakistan — the definitive application guide. Every federal vacancy follows one of two tracks: FPSC or direct departmental recruitment. This guide maps both, with fees, documents, tests and timelines.
Quick answer: Two tracks: (1) FPSC — consolidated ads on fpsc.gov.pk, PSID fee Rs 600–3,000, MCQ test + interview; (2) Direct — department websites/dailies, own portals and fees (e.g. CDA Rs 2,000). Both need CNIC, degrees, domicile and photo.
The Two Tracks
Track 1 — FPSC: officer and specialist posts (BS-16+) across ministries. Monthly consolidated ads, online-only application, PSID-based fee, MCQ screening, interview. Track 2 — Direct: departments and autonomous bodies (CDA, NPF, regulators, police constabulary) advertising on their own portals and in dailies, with their own fees and tests. Know which track your target post uses before you start.
Documents Checklist
CNIC · degrees and transcripts (HEC-attested where required) · domicile certificate · recent passport photo (digital, <30KB for FPSC) · experience letters · DPC/NOC if already in government service. Scan everything once; reuse for every application.
Timeline
Advertisement → 2–3 week application window → fee verification → written test (4–8 weeks later) → result → interview → final recommendation (3–6 months total). Contract posts move faster; CSS and senior posts slower.
Common Mistakes
Applying after the deadline · wrong quota/domicile · blurry photo uploads · forgetting the DPC · paying fees to individuals instead of official channels · trusting forwarded WhatsApp ads without checking the official source. Our pillar guide has the full picture.
What is the minimum qualification for federal jobs?
Varies by post: Matric/Intermediate for support roles, Bachelor’s for BS-16, Master’s or professional degrees for officer posts. The ad always specifies.
Can females apply for federal jobs?
Yes — all federal advertisements are open to male and female candidates, with a 10% women quota in most recruitment.
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