Welcome to CSE Reviewer

1. What is the Civil Service Exam?

The Civil Service Exam (CSE) is a nationwide test administered by the Civil Service Commission (CSC) to evaluate an individual’s knowledge, skills, and competencies for government service. Passing the exam grants Civil Service Eligibility, which is required for permanent appointment in many government positions.

The exam ensures that government employees are competent, ethical, and capable of delivering public service efficiently.

2. Modes of Taking the Civil Service Exam

There are two main modes:

• Paper-and-Pencil Test (PPT): Traditional multiple-choice questions on paper.
• Computerized Test (CBT): Digital format conducted on computers at CSC testing centers.

CBT is usually faster for results processing, while PPT is offered in select testing locations.

3. Civil Service Exam Coverage

The Civil Service Exam covers multiple subjects designed to test analytical ability, general knowledge, and ethical competence. Coverage includes:

• 1. General Information
  • Philippine Constitution (1987 Constitution)
  • Philippine Government Structure & Branches
  • Administrative Code of 1987
  • Code of Conduct & Ethical Standards for Public Officials (RA 6713)
  • Peace and Human Rights Issues & Concepts
  • Environment and Ecology
  • Current Events, National Issues & Government Programs
• 2. Verbal Ability (Professional & Subprofessional)
  • Grammar and Correct Usage
  • Vocabulary
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Paragraph Organization
• 3. Numerical Ability
  • Basic Operations: Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, Division
  • Word Problems
  • Number Series & Patterns
  • Fractions, Decimals, Percentages
  • Ratio & Proportion
  • Basic Algebra
• 4. Analytical Ability (Professional Level)
  • Logical Reasoning
  • Data Interpretation
  • Problem-Solving Scenarios
  • Identifying Assumptions, Inferences & Conclusions
• 5. Clerical Ability (Subprofessional Level Only)
  • Filing & Alphabetizing
  • Clerical Operations
  • Office Procedures
• 6. Philippine Laws and Ethics
  • Civil Service Commission Rules & Guidelines
  • RA 6713 – Ethical Standards
  • Public Accountability & Transparency Principles
• 7. Numerical & Logical Word Problems
  • Situational Math Problems
  • Sequence, Patterns & Series
  • Chart, Table, Graph Analysis
• 8. Basic Computer Literacy (CBT-focused)
  • Basic Parts of Computer
  • Common Office Applications
  • Email & Online Etiquette

The exam focuses heavily on problem-solving, comprehension, and reasoning skills. The Professional level has more challenging analytical and logic problems, while the Subprofessional level includes more clerical and office-related topics.

4. Civil Service Exam Passing Rate

Passing rate varies by exam type:

• PPT: ~55% - 60%
• CBT: ~60% - 65%

Regular practice, reviewing past questions, and time management improve success chances.

5. Who Are Eligible to Take the Civil Service Exam?

Eligibility includes:

• Filipino citizen of good moral character
• College graduates or undergraduates from recognized institutions
• Government employees seeking permanent appointment or promotion
• Individuals aiming for careers in government service

6. Exemptions to the Civil Service Exam

Certain individuals are exempt, such as:

• Permanent government employees with Civil Service Eligibility
• Executives, managers, or confidential positions in agencies
• Special appointees as designated by CSC rules

7. Civil Service Exam Requirements

To apply, prepare:

• Fully accomplished application form (CSC Form No. 100)
• Valid government-issued ID (passport, driver’s license, SSS ID)
• Recent 2x2 passport photos
• Payment of the prescribed exam fee
• Other documents requested by CSC or testing center