Here are the important things you need to know about the Civil Service Exam.

Q:  Why should I take the Civil Service Exam?

A:    Passers of the CSE are entitled to permanent positions.  This means that they have the usual benefits like SSS, Pag-ibig, Philheath, holiday pay, etc. (Nonpermanent or job order employees do not enjoy these benefits.

Q:  What is the difference between the Subprofessional Eligibility from the Professional Eligibility?

A: Those with Subprofessional Eligibility are qualified to enter the first level of government service while those with Professional Eligibility may join the second level.

The first level positions involve non-professional work that does not require four years of college studies.  The second level involve professional, technical, or scientific work requiring at least four years of college studies.  When it comes to salary and promotion, the first level positions are only entitled up to Salary Grade 10 whereas the second level positions are entitled to positions with Salary Grade 11 and above as long as they meet the requirements for that given position (i.e. education, experience, seminars attended, etc. ).  See the salary grade level for 2019. here.  If you see yourself retiring as a government employee, it is better that you take the professional exam.

Q: I don’t have a college degree.  Can I still take the CS Professional Exam?

A: Yes you may.  Educational attainment is not a requirement for taking the CS Exam.  However, if you wish to apply for a higher position, a college degree may be a requirement.

Q:  What are the requirements to take the CSE?

A:  All applicants must strictly meet the following qualification requirements:

• Filipino citizen;
• At least 18 years old on the date of filing of application;
• Of good moral character;
• Has not been convicted by final judgment of an offense or crime involving moral turpitude, or disgraceful or immoral conduct, dishonesty, examination irregularity, drunkenness, or addiction to drugs;
• Has not been dishonorably discharged from military service, or dismissed for cause from any civilian position in the government; and
• Has not taken the same level of Career Service Examination, either through PPT or CSC Computerized Examination (CSC COMEX), within three months before the date of examination.