CS Course - Company Secretary Admissions 2025

Company Secretary Admission Process 2024 is a structured procedure to enrol in the Company Secretary (CS) course offered by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI). CS course is a professional program that equips individuals with the knowledge and skills required to become a Company Secretary, a crucial role in corporate governance.

To be eligible for Company Secretary admission, candidates must have passed either the CS Foundation level exam or the CSEET (Company Secretary Executive Entrance Test) conducted by ICSI. Additionally, candidates must have completed their class 12th or equivalent examination.

The admission process for the CS Executive and Professional programs is typically open twice a year, in June and December. Candidates can use the ICSI website to apply online. The application form requires personal information, educational qualifications, and scanned copies of relevant documents. Once the application is submitted, candidates are required to pay the registration fee.

After completing the required stages, candidates undergo practical training and pass the necessary modules. Post these achievements, one becomes an Associate Company Secretary. Aspiring professionals should also fulfil the pre-exam and post-qualification criteria outlined by ICSI. Adhering to these steps ensures successful Company Secretary admission, enabling individuals to pursue a fulfilling career as a certified Company Secretary in India.

Here are some cardinal highlights regarding CS admission 2024:

The Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) prescribes the eligibility criteria for pursuing the Company Secretary (CS) course in India. The CS course comprises three levels: CS Foundation, CS Executive, and CS Professional. Each level has its own set of eligibility requirements which are as follows:

CSEET Eligibility:

Successful completion of Class 12 or equivalent examination from a recognized board or university.
No maximum age limit to apply for the CS Executive Entrance Test.

CS Executive Eligibility:

Applicants must fulfil one of the requirements listed below:

Passed CS Foundation or CSEET exam
Possess a Bachelor's or Master's degree in any stream except Fine Arts
Passed the final level of ICMAI (Institute of Cost Accountants of India) or ICAI (Institute of Chartered Accountants of India)

CS Professional Eligibility:

Passed both modules of CS Executive exam with minimum passing score stipulated by ICSI
Completed 15 months of practical training under a practising Company Secretary

Additional Requirements:

Candidates must be of sound health and good moral character.
Candidates must not be convicted of any offence involving moral turpitude.

The course fees for the Company Secretary (CS) course in India are as follows:

Company Secretary (CS) Final Course Fee:

CS Final course fees range between Rs. 27,100 to Rs. 32,000.

Company Secretary (CS) Additional Fees:

In addition to the course fees, there are a few additional fees that candidates may need to pay, such as registration fees, examination fees, and study material fees. These fees vary depending on the institute or university where the candidate is studying.

Company Secretary (CS) Payment Options:

Course fees and additional fees can be paid online through the ICSI website or by bank transfer.

Important Notes:

Course fees and additional fees are subject to change as per ICSI's discretion.
It is advisable to check with the institute or university where you intend to study for the latest fee structure.

The Company Secretary (CS) course in India does not offer specific specialisations. However, the CS course provides a broad foundation in various aspects of corporate law, finance, accounting, and management, which prepares candidates for a wide range of career opportunities in the corporate sector.

After completing the CS course, candidates can specialise in various areas, such as:

Corporate Law and Governance: This specialisation focuses on the legal framework governing companies in India, including company formation, corporate governance, and compliance with various regulations.

Corporate Finance and Taxation: This specialisation focuses on the financial aspects of corporate operations, including financial analysis, budgeting, taxation, and risk management.

Corporate Secretarial Practice: This specialisation focuses on the day-to-day administrative and compliance tasks of a company secretary, including board meetings, shareholder communications, and maintenance of corporate records.

Corporate Mergers and Acquisitions: This specialisation focuses on the legal and financial aspects of corporate mergers and acquisitions, including due diligence, valuation, and negotiations.

International Business and Finance: This specialisation focuses on the business and financial aspects of operating in the global market, including international trade, foreign exchange, and cross-border investments.

The choice of specialisation depends on the individual candidate's interests, skills, and career aspirations. Candidates can explore various career paths within each specialisation, such as legal advisor, financial analyst, compliance officer, investment banker, or international business consultant.

In addition to the above, the CS course also provides exposure to other areas such as ethics, business communication, and information technology, which further enhances the employability of CS professionals.

The CSEET is the entry-level examination for students aspiring to pursue the Company Secretary (CS) course under the revised syllabus introduced by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI).

Key Features of CSEET:

Eligibility: 10+2 or equivalent qualification is the minimum requirement to appear for the CSEET.

Test Structure: CSEET is a computer-based test comprising four papers:

Business Communication
Legal Aptitude and Logical Reasoning
Economic and Business Environment
Current Affairs, Presentation and Communication Skills

Mode of Examination: It is conducted online, assessing candidates' proficiency in communication, legal aptitude, logical reasoning, and understanding of economic and business concepts.

Exemption: Graduates, postgraduates, and those who have cleared or are exempted from certain professional exams are not required to take CSEET.

Examination Frequency: CSEET is held four times a year, in January, May, July, and November.

Passing Criteria: A candidate is required to secure 40% marks in each paper and an aggregate of 50% to pass the CSEET.

The CSEET aims to assess fundamental skills essential for a career in corporate governance and compliance. Upon successful completion, candidates can proceed to the Executive program of the CS course, marking the beginning of their journey toward becoming a qualified Company Secretary.

CSEET Entrance Exams Schedule

The schedule for upcoming CSEET entrance exam is as follows:

CSEET Entrance Exam Syllabus 

The Company Secretary Executive Entrance Test (CSEET) is a two-hour objective-type entrance exam conducted four times a year by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) to assess the aptitude of candidates for admission to the CS Executive program. The CS Executive program is the second level of the Company Secretary (CS) course in India.

The CSEET exam syllabus is divided into four papers:

• Paper 1: Business Communication (50 Marks)

• Paper 2: Legal Aptitude and Logical Reasoning (70 Marks)

• Paper 3: Economic and Business Environment (50 Marks)

• Paper 4: Current Affairs (30 Marks)

Each paper's comprehensive syllabus is as follows:

Paper 1: Business Communication

• Essentials of Good English: English Grammar and its usage - Noun, Pronouns, Verbs, Adjectives, Adverbs, Prepositions, Conjunctions, Interjection, Voice, Articles, Tenses, Prefix and Suffix, Punctuations etc.

• Business Vocabulary: Meaning of important Business Terms, Abbreviations, Banking Terminology, Legal Terminology.

• Reading Comprehension: Reading Comprehension of various Business and Financial Passages.

• Writing Skills: Precis Writing, Writing Effective Emails and Reports, Writing Minutes of Meetings, etc.

• Verbal Communication: Communication Skills, Presentation Skills, Group Discussion Skills.

Paper 2: Legal Aptitude and Logical Reasoning

• Legal Aptitude: Indian Constitution, Law of Contract, Company Law, Intellectual Property Rights, etc.

• Logical Reasoning: Logical Reasoning, Number Series, Analogy, Syllogism, Coding-Decoding, etc.

Paper 3: Economic and Business Environment

• Micro Economics: Demand and Supply, Theory of Production and Cost, Market Structures, etc.

• Macro Economics: National Income, Inflation, Money and Banking, Government and Public Finance, etc.

• Business Environment: Business Environment, Business Ethics, Corporate Governance, etc.

Paper 4: Current Affairs

• Current Affairs of National and International Importance: Current events and issues related to Politics, Economics, Business, Technology, Sports, etc.

The syllabus is comprehensive, covering a range of topics to ensure that candidates possess the necessary foundation for pursuing the CS course. It assesses language proficiency, legal understanding, economic awareness, logical reasoning, and communication skills, all of which are crucial for a successful career as a Company Secretary. It's advisable to check the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) website for the most current and detailed syllabus information.

CS Entrance Exam Quick Preparation Tips 

Here are some relevant and unique preparation tips for the CSEET (Company Secretary Executive Entrance Test):

Start your preparation early: Don't wait for the last minute to start studying. The CSEET exam covers a wide range of topics, so it's important to give yourself enough time to prepare effectively.

Make a comprehensive study plan: Create a study plan that is tailored to your individual needs and learning style. Divide the course into digestible sections and plan regular study sessions.

Familiarise yourself with the exam pattern and syllabus: Thoroughly go through the exam pattern and syllabus to understand the type of questions that will be asked and the specific topics that will be covered.

Use a variety of study materials: Don't rely on just one source of information. Use textbooks, reference books, online resources, and mock tests to get a well-rounded understanding of the material.

Practice solving previous years' question papers and mock tests: This is one of the best ways to get a feel for the exam format and the level of difficulty. Practise in a timed setting to mimic the format of the real exam.

Take regular breaks and avoid cramming: Avoid cramming for long hours without taking breaks. This can lead to burnout and make it difficult to retain information. Every hour or so, take brief breaks to clear your head.

Stay updated with current events and affairs: The CSEET exam includes a section on current affairs, so it's important to stay up-to-date on national and international events. Frequently read newspapers and magazines, watch news channels, and subscribe to reputed newspapers.

Form a study group or join an online preparation course: Studying with others can help you stay motivated and accountable. A study group or online preparation course can also provide you with a supportive learning environment and opportunities to discuss concepts and solve problems together.

Seek help when needed: Don't hesitate to seek help from teachers, tutors, or online resources if you're struggling with a particular topic.

Stay confident and positive: Believe in yourself and your ability to succeed. Approach the exam with a positive mindset and focus on doing your best.

Remember, consistent and focused preparation is the key to success in the CSEET exam. By following these tips and dedicating yourself to your studies, you can increase your chances of achieving a good score and securing admission to the CS Executive program.

The Company Secretary (CS) selection process is a rigorous and competitive procedure that aims to identify and select the most competent candidates for the CS course and profession. The selection process typically involves multiple stages, each designed to assess different aspects of a candidate's suitability for the role.

Stages of the CS Selection Process

The CS selection process typically consists of the following stages:

Registration and Application: Candidates must register for the CS course and submit their applications through the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) website. The application form requires personal information, educational qualifications, and scanned copies of relevant documents.

Entrance Exams: Candidates must appear for one of the two entrance exams conducted by ICSI: the CS Foundation exam or the CSEET (Company Secretary Executive Entrance Test). Both exams assess candidates' aptitude for the CS course and cover subjects such as English, business communication, legal aptitude, and economic and business environment.

CS Executive Program: Candidates who pass the entrance exam are eligible for admission to the CS Executive program, which is the second level of the CS course. The Executive program consists of four modules, each covering different aspects of corporate law, finance, and accounting.

CS Professional Program: Candidates who successfully complete the Executive program are eligible to enrol in the CS Professional program, which is the final level of the CS course. The Professional program consists of eight modules, focusing on advanced corporate law, finance, taxation, and management concepts.

Practical Training: In addition to completing the theoretical coursework, CS aspirants must also undergo practical training under a practising Company Secretary. This training provides hands-on experience in various aspects of corporate secretarial work and helps candidates apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world settings.

Final Examination: Upon completion of the practical training, candidates must appear for the CS Final exam, which is a comprehensive examination covering all aspects of the CS course. Candidates who pass the Final exam are eligible to apply for membership in ICSI and become registered Company Secretaries.

Factors Considered in the CS Selection Process

The CS selection process is designed to assess candidates based on a combination of factors, including:

Academic Qualifications: Strong academic performance, particularly in subjects relevant to corporate law, finance, and accounting, is a key factor in the selection process.

Entrance Exam Performance: Success in the CS entrance exams demonstrates candidates' aptitude for the course and their ability to grasp complex concepts.

Communication Skills: Effective communication is crucial for Company Secretaries, who must interact with various stakeholders, including board members, shareholders, and regulatory authorities.

Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills: The ability to analyse complex legal and financial issues and formulate effective solutions is essential for Company Secretaries.

Work Experience: Prior work experience in corporate or legal settings can provide valuable insights and enhance a candidate's profile.

Personal Qualities: Company Secretaries must possess strong personal qualities such as integrity, professionalism, and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to apply for the Company Secretary (CS) course in India:

Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the CS course. The minimum qualification required is passing Class 12 or equivalent from a recognized board or university.

Create ICSI Account: Register on the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) website (www.icsi.edu) to create an account.

Fill Application Form: Access the online application form for the chosen entrance exam and fill in the required details, including personal information, educational qualifications, and scanned copies of relevant documents.

Take the Entrance Exam: Take the CSEET examination after 10+2 and pass the exam with an overall aggregate score of 50% or above to become eligible for the CS Executive course.

Pay Registration Fee: Make the payment for the registration fee through the online payment gateway provided on the ICSI website.

Submit Application: Once the form is complete and the fee is paid, submit the application online.

Download Admit Card: After the application deadline, ICSI will release the admit cards for the entrance exam. Download your admit card from the ICSI website.

Appear for Entrance Exam: Attend the entrance exam on the scheduled date and time at the designated exam centre.

Await Results: ICSI will declare the results of the entrance exam within a few weeks. Check the ICSI website for the results.

Apply for CS Executive Program: If you qualify for the CSEET, you can apply for admission to the CS Executive program through the ICSI website. The application process is similar to the entrance exam application.

Complete CS Executive Program: Successfully complete the CS Executive program, which consists of four modules.

Apply for CS Professional Program: Once you have completed the CS Executive program, you are eligible to apply for the CS Professional program, the final level of the CS course.

Complete CS Professional Program: Successfully complete the CS Professional program, which consists of eight modules.

Undergo Practical Training: During the CS Professional program, you must undergo 15 months of practical training under a practising Company Secretary.

Appear for CS Final Exam: Upon completion of the practical training, you must appear for the CS Final exam, which is a comprehensive examination covering all aspects of the CS course.

Apply for ICSI Membership: Once you pass the CS Final exam, you can apply for membership in ICSI and become a registered Company Secretary.

Remember, the application process and eligibility criteria may change periodically, so it's advisable to check the ICSI website for the latest updates and announcements.

The documents required for Company Secretary (CS) course admission in India may vary depending on the specific institute or university you are applying to. However, some general requirements include:

Mark Sheets or Certificates: Attested copies of mark sheets or certificates from Class 10 or equivalent, Class 12 or equivalent, and graduation level if applicable.

Date of Birth Proof: An attested copy of your birth certificate, passport, or any other valid date of birth proof.

Identity Proof: An attested copy of your passport, Aadhaar card, PAN card, or any other valid identity proof.

Scanned Photographs: A set of scanned passport-size photographs.

Application Form: The completed and signed application form, usually available on the institute's website or can be obtained directly from the admissions office.

Registration Fee Payment Receipt: Proof of payment of the registration fee, typically made through online payment gateway or bank transfer.

Caste Certificate (if applicable): If applicable, an attested copy of your caste certificate, if you belong to a Scheduled Caste (SC) or Scheduled Tribe (ST).

Disability Certificate(if applicable): If applicable, an attested copy of your disability certificate, if you are a person with disabilities (PWD).

Domicile Certificate(if applicable): If applicable, an attested copy of your domicile certificate, if you are applying under the domicile quota.

Recommendation Letter: In some cases, you may be required to submit a recommendation letter from a professor, employer, or other relevant individual.

Additional Documents: Depending on the specific institute or university, there may be additional documents required, such as a letter of motivation, extracurricular activities record, or previous work experience certifications.

It is advisable to check the specific requirements of the institute or university you are applying to ensure you have all the necessary documents before submitting your application. You can find detailed information on the institute's website or by contacting the admissions office directly.