CSS MPT pattern & marking
The MPT is a single objective paper. Understanding exactly how it is scored changes how you should attempt it.
One paper, 200 MCQs, 200 minutes
The whole test is 200 multiple-choice questions of one mark each, attempted in 200 minutes (3 hours 20 minutes) — about a minute per question. Pace matters: lingering on a hard MCQ costs you easier marks later.
Pass mark: 66/200 (33%)
You need 66 out of 200 to qualify. The MPT is pass/qualify only — a higher MPT score does not improve your final CSS merit, because the MPT score is not added to your merit marks. Clear it comfortably, then move on.
No negative marking
There is no penalty for a wrong answer, so you should attempt everyquestion — leaving a blank can only cost you. On MCQs you're unsure of, eliminate what you can and make your best choice.
See the area-wise syllabus and the CSS 2027 dates.
Feel the real pace — free
No negative marking, one minute per question, scored instantly. Take a full-length MPT mock and see how you'd do under real conditions.
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