CS Course - Company Secretary

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Sep 18, 2024 12:54PM IST

Company Secretary Course duration is 3-5 years depending on how swiftly a student clears the exams. This course prepares students to handle compliance in companies' operations, policies, procedures, and strategies. According to the company secretary course details, a student needs to clear three stages after passing Class 10+2 or its equivalent. The company secretary course syllabus and subjects include Business Environment and Law, Company Law, Tax Laws, Security Laws and Capital Markets, Financial and Strategic Management, IT and Systems Audit, Secretariat Audit, Corporate Restructuring, and many more.

Company Secretary Course Overview

Company Secretary course or CS is a professional programme where students learn to handle compliance, legal, and regulatory aspects of a corporate firm. It can take up to 3-5 years to pursue this course depending on a student’s ability to pass the exams. The company secretary course duration for the foundation program is 8 months, the executive course is 9 months, and the CS Professional course spans 15 months excluding the training period.

The minimum company secretary course eligibility is Class 10+2 or equivalent in any stream except Fine Arts. Students can also pursue CS after graduation. CS admission is open throughout the year via entrance exams conducted twice a year- June and December. According to ICSI (Institute of Company Secretaries of India) company secretary course details after 12th (all streams except Fine Arts), a student has to take up all three programsHowever, if a student wishes to pursue CS after graduation, they only need to undergo executive and professional levels (except if they have Fine Arts).

The Company Secretary Course Syllabus is vast, especially the Executive and Professional courses’ syllabi. The foundational courses include accounting and auditing fundamentals, business economics, business management, ethics, and entrepreneurship, and business environment and law. For executive programmes, tax laws and practice, economic, commercial, and intellectual property laws, company law & practice, and related topics are studied. Similarly, for professional programmes, secretarial audits, corporate restructuring, valuation, and insolvency, strategic management & corporate finance, and many more are a part.

To get CS admission after 10+2, candidates have to pass the CSEET exam to become eligible for the CS Executive course. Aspirants who are graduates and postgraduates can directly opt for the CS Executive course without going through the CSEET exam.

CS Jobs are eclectic ranging from giant corporations to startups. You can be the one to make a difference in how a company operates and thrives. CS Salary for freshers is also lucrative and it could range from Rs. 4,00,000 to Rs. 7,00,000.

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Company Secretary Course Latest Updates

  • The CSEET registration procedure for the November session will run till October 15, 2024.
  • CSEET applications for the 2025 January session will start on October 16, 2024.
  • ICSI has revised the syllabus and students must prepare for it in the upcoming sessions.
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Company Secretary Course Highlights

Check out the important company secretary course details at a glance here:

Course NameCompany Secretary or CS Course
Admission ProcessEntrance exam scores
Course fees
  • CSEET Registration Fees: INR 2,000
  • CSEET Classes Advance Fees: INR 1,000 (Optional)

Executive Programme-

  • CSEET- INR 17,000
  • CS Foundation Programme- INR 17,000
  • Direct Admission- INR 22,000

Professional Programme- INR 20,000

Qualification RequiredCandidates must have passed their class 12th or equivalent from a recognised school board in India
Eligibility CriteriaCSEET Exam Eligibility: Passed class 12th or equivalent exam from a recognised school board
CS Executive Eligibility: CSEET or Graduation/ Postgraduation/ Passed CS Foundation programme/ Passed CA Final or ICMAI Final
CS Professional Eligibility: Cleared CS Executive programme
Entrance ExamCompany Secretary Executive Entrance Test (CSEET), CS Foundational, CS Executive, CS Professional
Entrance Exam ModeOnline (Computer-Based Test)
Salary (Annual)INR 3,00,000 - INR 15,00,000
Skills RequiredStrong Communication Skills, Time Management & Multi-Tasking, Expertise in Finance Law and Company Law, Analytical Skills, Eye To Detail, Corporate Compliance Procedure Knowledge, Attention to Detail, etc.
Job ProfilesAdministrative Secretary, Corporate Planner, Corporate Policymaker, Chief Administrative Officer, Managing Director, Business Consultant, Member of Board of Directors, Legal Advisor, etc.
Top Recruiting FirmsDell Technologies, TVS, Tata Steel, Aditya Birla Group, People Combine, Croma, Indian Railway Finance Corporation Limited, ACB Group of Companies, etc.
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What Is A Company Secretary Course & Why To Choose It?

A company secretary course allows individuals to protect companies from legal troubles. It ensures that the company works ethically and adheres to legal and regulatory standards. From business and corporate laws to intellectual property laws, secretarial audits, and much more, a company secretary is trained to become well-versed in all. 

There are several strong reasons to study the Company Secretary (CS) Course, including:

  • CS professionals are highly in demand.
  • Their role is quite important in the corporate sector.
  • Company Secretary professionals can work in public and private organisations or as independent consultants.
  • This profile is quite prestigious and honoured by companies.
  • Roles and positions at managerial and board levels open up for CS professionals.
  • CS professionals are versatile and adaptable as they have skills and knowledge of finance, management, legal, and communication.
  • The Company Secretary course is recognised globally.
  • Since the job opportunities are ample, there is good job security.

Why Study Company Secretary Course?

When to pursue Company Secretary (CS) Course?

You can pursue the Company Secretary (CS) Course at different stages of your educational journey and career.

After 12Students can enrol in the CS Foundation program after Class 10+2 or equivalent in any stream for an early start to their professional career.
After GraduationStudents who have graduated in any stream can start with the CS Executive Programme.
After Post-GraduationThose who have done their master's can also enrol in the CS course at the Executive level.
Switch After Staring Your CareerYou can successfully pursue CS even after you have started your career
Professional DevelopmentProfessionals like lawyers, financial executives, and accountants can also take up CS to enhance their expertise.

Who should study Company Secretary Course?

The CS Course suits those individuals who are as follows and are interested in the following:

  • Those interested in corporate law, legal compliance, and company regulations
  • Those with an inclination towards corporate governance
  • Individuals being methodical and possessing a sharp eye for detail and multiple task handling
  • Effective written and oral communication
  • Those having analytical and problem-solving abilities
  • If you want to be in key management positions in companies
  • To people who have a career plan in the financial world, company administration, or corporate affairs
  • The CS Course The training demands continuous learning as well as an awareness of the evolving legal and regulatory environment
  • If you find interest in how businesses operate, grow, and succeed
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CS Executive Entrance Exam (CSEET)

The CS Executive Entrance Exam or CSEET is the required entrance exam for enrollment in the Company Secretary Executive programme. ICSI (Institute of Company Secretaries of India) holds the exam to gauge candidates' readiness for the position of Company Secretary. The CSEET exam is compulsory for all students who want to apply to the Company Secretary Executive programme.

CSEET Exam Pattern

Here are the highlights of the CS executive entrance exam CSEET question paper:

  1. The exam will consist of the following 4 parts as mentioned below:
    1. Business Communication
    2. Legal Aptitude & Logical Reasoning
    3. Economic and Business Environment
    4. Current Affairs
  2. It is a computer-based MCQ test of 120 minutes 
  3. The exam will also entail a viva-voce of 15 minutes to test the candidate's Presentation and Communication Skills.

CSEET Eligibility Criteria 

  1. All those candidates who have completed or are appearing for their 10+2 exams are eligible to apply and register themselves for the CSEET examination. 
  2. All graduates and postgraduates can apply for CSEET.
  3. The minimum age to appear for the CS Executive Entrance Test is 17 years.

CSEET Duration 

The duration of the ICSI CSEET exam will be 120 minutes for the MCQ-based test and 15 minutes for viva voce.

CSEET Registration Fee 

The registration fee for the CSEET exam is INR 2,000 and ICSI also provides concession to candidates from categories as mentioned in the table below:

CategoryFee Exemption
ICLS Officers/ Officers & Staff of MCA and affiliated offices (NCLT, SFIO and CCI)100%
ICSI Staff and Wards / Spouse of ICSI Staff75%
Physically Handicapped50%
SC/ ST50%
Serving / Retired Personnel of Defence Services and Paramilitary Forces50%
Students from North Eastern States, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep & Himachal Pradesh50%
Students from the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh100%
Wards and Widows of Martyrs and Defence Service Personnel with Permanent Disability100%

CSEET Syllabus & Subjects

The CSEET syllabus includes four subjects that are listed below:

Business CommunicationLegal Aptitude and Logical Reasoning
Current Affairs Economic and Business Environment
Presentation and Communication Skills Viva-Voce-

CSEET Exam Date

The CSEET exam dates are mentioned in the table below

CSEET MonthRegistration DateExam DateResult Date
MayDecember 16- April 15Sat/ Sun in 2nd /3rd Week of May4th week of May
JulyApril 16- June 15Sat/ Sun in 2nd /3rd Week of July4th week of July
NovemberJune 16- October 15Sat/ Sun in 2nd /3rd Week of Nov4th week of Nov
JanuaryOctober 16- December 15Sat/ Sun - 2nd or 3rd week of Jan4th week of Jan
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Company Secretary Course Executive Level

CS Executive course covers a variety of topics, primarily those related to law. This includes corporate law, general legal principles, tax law, accounting and auditing procedures, and securities law. The company secretary syllabus at the executive level entails two groups with a total of 7 papers. 

Candidates can join the CS Executive course right after completing their class 12th and passing the CSEET entrance test OR candidates who have completed their graduation/ postgraduation/ Passed ICAI or ICMAI final level can also directly join the course without having to take the CSEET exam. However, such candidates will have to pay the exam exemption fee of INR 5,000.

Students often find the CS Executive course a bit tougher than the Company Secretary Professional programme because the Executive course focuses exclusively on laws such as company law, the Contract Act, and the Negotiable Instrument Act, whereas the professional course focuses more on due diligence, the responsibilities of a Company Secretary, and case studies.

CS Executive Eligibility Criteria 

Before submitting an application for the CS Executive course, candidates must review the company secretary course executive level eligibility mentioned below:

  • Candidates must be older than 17 years to register for the CS Executive course.
  • Applicants must have passed either the ICSI-conducted CSEET or the CS Foundation level.
  • Candidates who have completed their graduation/ postgraduation are eligible to apply for the programme without having to take the CSEET exam. Similarly, applicants who have successfully completed ICMAI or ICAI's final level are also eligible to apply for the course after paying an exemption fee of INR 5,000.

CS Executive Duration 

The CS Executive course lasts for around 9 months. The registration for the ICSI CS Executive exam, which is offered in June and December each year, is open all year long.

CS Executive Fee Structure 

The detailed company secretary course fees for the executive-level programme are mentioned in the table below:

ParticularsFee payable by the candidates who have passed:
CS Executive Entrance Test (CSEET)CS Foundation Programme

Direct Admission- 

  • Graduates
  • Post Graduates
  • Final ICAI course
  • ICMAI Final Level 
Registration feeINR 2,000INR 2,000INR 2,000
Education FeeINR 12,900INR 12,900INR 12,900
CSEET Exemption FeeNilNILINR 5,000
Pre-Exam Test FeeINR 1,000INR 1,000INR 1,000
One-Day Orientation ProgramINR 600INR 600INR 600
Chartered Secretary Journal Subscription for one year (Optional)INR 500INR 500INR 500
Total FeesINR 17,000INR 17,000INR 22,000

CS Executive Syllabus and Subjects 

The company secretary course executive level syllabus and subjects are grouped into two groups to inculcate principles, laws, and interpretation at the executive level. In this context, the arrangement of papers in Group 1 of the Executive Programme has been designed with consideration for the key factors of "Ease of Learning," "Balancing of Theoretical/Legal and Practical Papers," and "Reinforcing fundamental concepts relevant to the papers in Group 2." Based on these considerations, students are encouraged to prioritise Group 1 when taking the Executive Programme Examination.

GroupsSyllabus and Subjects
Group IJurisprudence, Interpretation & General Laws (100 Marks)

Company Law & Practice 

Part I – Company Law – Principles and Concepts (60 Marks) 

Part II – Company Administration & Meetings (40 Marks)

Setting Up of Business, Industrial & Labour Laws 

Part I – Setting Up of Business (60 Marks) 

Part II – Industrial & Labour Laws (40 Marks)

Corporate Accounting and Financial Management 

Part I – Corporate Accounting (60 Marks) 

Part II – Financial Management (40 Marks)

Group II

Tax Laws & Practice 

Part I - Direct Tax (60 Marks) 

Part II - Indirect Tax (40 Marks)

Capital Market & Securities Laws 

Part I – Capital Market (40 Marks) 

Part II – Securities Laws (60 Marks)

Economic, Commercial and Intellectual Property Laws 

Part I – Economic & Commercial Laws (60 Marks)

Part II – Intellectual Property Laws (40 Marks)

CS Executive Exam Pattern

  1. 20 % case objective-based questions and 80% descriptive questions in all except Corporate Accounting and Financial Management, which is 100% descriptive.
  2. Exam duration- 3 Hours
  3. Marks- 100 Marks for each exam

CS Executive Exam Dates 

The CS Executive exam dates are mentioned in the table below:

Exam LevelExam Date
CS ExecutiveDecember 21 - 27, 2024
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Company Secretary Course Professional Level

CS Professional course is the final level of the Company Secretary programme. The duration of CS Professional is 15 months and after the completion of the course, candidates are required to undergo training. Candidates can be admitted to the course only if they have successfully passed the CS Executive programme. It is only after the completion of the Company Secretary Professional course that a candidate gets certified by the ICSI to become a bonafide Company Secretary.

CS Professional Eligibility Criteria

The CS course eligibility at the professional level involves clearing the CS executive level successfully.

CS Professional Duration 

The duration of the CS Professional course is around 15 months. It is the last level of the Company Secretary programme after which a candidate can become a certified CS upon successful completion of the level.

CS Professional Fee Structure 

Candidates who successfully clear the CS Executive course will have to pay the CS course fees for the professional level as mentioned in the table below

ParticularsFee
Education FeeINR 19,000
Pre-Exam Test FeeINR 1,000
Total FeesINR 20,000

CS Professional Syllabus and Subjects 

The CS professional course syllabus is divided into two groups as per ICSI's new Syllabus 2022. There are a total of 7 papers.

GroupsSyllabus and Subjects
Group I

Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) – Principles & Practice 

Part I – Governance and Sustainability (65 Marks) 

Part II – Risk Management (20 Marks) 

Part III- Environment & Sustainability Reporting (15 Marks)

Compliance Management, Audit & Due Diligence

Part I – Compliance Management (40 Marks) 

Part II – Audit & Due Diligence (60 Marks)

Drafting, Pleadings and Appearances 

Part I - Drafting and Conveyancing (70 Marks) 

Part II - Pleadings and Appearances (30 Marks)

Elective 1 (Select one Paper out of 4 Elective Papers)
Group II

Strategic Management & Corporate Finance 

Part I – Strategic Management (40 Marks) 

Part II – Corporate Finance (60 Marks)

Corporate Restructuring, Valuation and Insolvency 

Part I – Corporate Restructuring (40 Marks) 

Part II – Valuation (20 Marks) 

Part III – Insolvency, Liquidation & Winding-up (40 Marks)

Elective 2 (Select one Paper out of 5 Elective Papers) 

Elective Subjects

Elective 1Elective 2

CSR & Social Governance 

Part I – Corporate Social Responsibility (50 Marks) 

Part II – Social Governance (50 Marks)

Arbitration, Mediation & Conciliation 

Part I – Arbitration & Conciliation (70 Marks) 

Part II – Mediation (30 Marks) 

Internal and Forensic Audit 

Part I – Internal Audit (60 Marks) 

Part II – Forensic Audit (40 Marks)

Goods and Services Tax (GST) & Corporate Tax Planning 

Part I – Goods and Services Tax (GST) (70 Marks) 

Part II – Corporate Tax Planning (30 Marks)

Intellectual Property Rights – Law & Practice (100 Marks)Labour Laws & Practice (100 Marks)
Artificial Intelligence, Data Analytics and Cyber Security – Laws & Practice (100 Marks)

Banking & Insurance – Laws & Practice 

Part I – Banking Laws (50 Marks) 

Part II – Insurance Laws (50 Marks)

Insolvency and Bankruptcy – Law & Practice (100 Marks)

CS Professional Exam Pattern

  1. Descriptive questions in exams
  2. For elective papers, both descriptive and open-book questions will be asked
  3. Exam duration is of 3 hours for each exam
  4. 100 marks each exam

CS Professional Exam Dates 

The CS Professional exam dates are mentioned in the table below:

Exam LevelExam Date
CS ProfessionalDecember 21 - 30, 2024
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Company Secretary (CS) Admission Process

The key points related to the company secretary admission process after 12th are as follows:

  • Candidates who have passed class 12th must mandatorily register themselves for the CSEET exam at The Institute of Company Secretaries of India’s (ICSI) official website.
  • They have to visit the official website at icsi.edu and choose "Register for CSEET" by clicking the link for online services.
  • Applicants must keep all the required documents ready before starting the online application process.
  • After clicking on "Register for CSEET", candidates must now fill out the online application form and upload all the prescribed documents.
  • After completing the entire application form, it is essential to cross-check if they have filled out each detail accurately or not.
  • Once they have verified the entries in the form, candidates need to click on submit which will redirect them to the payment page.
  • The CSEET application fee of INR 2000 needs to be paid via online mode through a credit card, debit card, or net banking.
  • An acknowledgement email along with the fee payment confirmation and receipt will be sent to their email which they can download for their records.
  • Applicants who are already graduates/ postgraduates need not take the CSEET exam and they can directly enrol for the CS Executive level.
  • Those who pass the CSEET will be eligible for admission to the CS Executive course.
  • Candidates who successfully clear the Company Secretary Executive course will be eligible for the final level of the CS which is the Professional programme.
  • Once a candidate successfully clears the CS Professional level, they become eligible to get certified by the ICSI and practice as a certified Company Secretary in India.
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Company Secretary Course Comparison

Students who are confused about whether CS is the correct choice for them can go through the course comparison of CS and other similar courses to find the ideal programme for themselves.

CS vs CA: Which is Better?

Company Secretary (CS) is responsible for providing legal and strategic advice to the corporation on a variety of fronts. The latter is a company law and corporate governance expert, and the former is an expert in accounting and finance. The main purpose of this section is to dispel any misconceptions between Chartered Accountancy and CS for anyone looking to determine which program is better for them.

Most individuals frequently conflate CA and CS despite the obvious differences in the career options of the two courses. Being one of the most sought-after professional programs following class 12th, it's critical to comprehend the distinction between the two. So that you can make an informed decision, this section will give you a thorough comparison of CA and CS as well as the major features of the two reputed job profiles.

ParticularsCACS
Conducting BodyThe Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI)The Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI)
Who should choose it?Applicants with a solid background in mathematics and logical reasoningCandidates with a preference for theory and the law
Stages

Foundation, Intermediate, and Final Course
 

Note: Candidates may also follow the direct entry route.

CSEET, Executive, and Professional Programme

Course Duration4.5 - 5 years3 - 4 years
Entrance ExamChartered Accountancy Common Proficiency TestCompany Secretary Executive Entrance Test
Eligibility Criteria

For CA Foundation Route:

  • To be eligible to take the Foundation examination, a candidate must have completed four months of required study time after registering as a CA and have passed the Class 12 exam.
  • The candidate must register with the Board of Studies and finish the required four months of education.

For CA Direct Entry Route:

  • Applicants who have an overall grade point average of 55% in the Commerce stream at any accredited university or open university are exempt from the CA Foundation exam.
  • Graduates and postgraduates from non-commerce fields must have obtained a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 60 per cent or its equivalent in the exam administered by any recognised university (including Open University).
  • Those who have passed the Intermediate level test offered by ICAI or ICSI are also eligible for direct entry.  
  • Candidates who have passed class 12th must mandatorily take the CSEET exam in order to enrol for the CS Executive course.
  • Candidates who have done graduation/ post graduation from any stream except Fine Arts are exempt from taking the CSEET exam and they can directly take admission to the CS Executive course.
  • For the CS Professional course, candidates must have passed the Executive level.
Job Profiles
  • Auditor
  • Chartered Accountant
  • Research Analyst
  • Investment Advisor
  • Credit Analyst
  • Forensic Audit
  • Financial Analyst
  • Company Registrar
  • Corporate Planner 
  • Chief Administrative Officer
  • Associate Company Secretary
  • Legal Advisor
  • Corporate Policymaker
  • Principal Secretary
Annual SalaryRs. 5,00,000 - 20,00,000Rs. 3,00,000 - 15,00,000
Employment OpportunitiesTaxation, Auditing, Accounting, Independent professional practice, Consultancy companies, Large organisations, Consultancy companies, Large organisations,  Chartered Accountant firms, Capital market services, Financial companies, etc.Corporate Governance, Company Law Advisor, Public Relations, International Trade & WTO, etc. 
Official Website CA Vs. CShttps://www.icai.orghttps://www.icsi.edu/home

CS vs CMA: Which is Better?

CMA stands for Certified Management Accountant, and the proper sponsor and provider of this education is the Institute of Certified Management Accountants. The CS course is provided by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India, ICSI. CS stands for Company Secretary. The course is focused on corporate law and regulations rather than cost and management accounting as the CMA course.

ParticularsCSCMA
Conducting BodyThe Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI)The Institute of Cost Accountants of India (ICMAI)
Course Structure

CS course is structured in the following three levels:

  • CSEET
  • CS Executive
  • CS Professional 

CMA course is structured in the following three levels:

  • CMA Foundation
  • CMA Intermediate
  • CMA Final along with 15 months to 3 years of Practical Training
Minimum Course Duration3 years 11 months (including training)3 years
Job Profile

Company Secretaries have the following job options:

  • Associate Company Secretary
  • Legal Advisor
  • Principal Secretary
  • Corporate Planner
  • Chief Administrative Officer

In both the public and commercial sectors, CMAs may hold important positions in top management, including those of finance director, financial controller, chairman and managing director, managing director, chief financial officer, cost controller, chief internal auditor, and marketing manager.

Demand in Market

The need for CS employment has increased along with the adoption of corporate work cultures in India and concurrent rise in compliances.

Today more than ever, companies are actively searching for qualified workers with CS skills to manage their operations, assist them in starting new businesses or growing current ones, and guarantee that they are in compliance with all laws and regulations that may apply.

Only the companies who have been warned are expected to keep cost records and have those records audited by a certified cost accountant; no company is required to have a cost audit performed.

Only businesses that operate on an extremely big scale are required to hire cost auditors. Hence, there are fewer possibilities available for CMAs than for Company Secretaries.

Annual SalaryINR 3,00,000 - INR 15,00,000INR 5,00,000 - INR 8,00,000

Company Secretary (CS) vs MBA

Here's a comparison between Company Secretary (CS) and Master of Business Administration (MBA) courses:

Particulars CSMBA
Full FormCompany SecretaryMaster of Business Administration
FocusLegal and regulatory compliance, corporate governanceBusiness management, leadership, and strategy
DurationTypically 3 levels (Foundation, Executive, and Professional) can take 3-4 yearsTypically 2 years, but there are also part-time and executive MBA programs with different durations
Eligibility10+2 for Foundation level, Graduation for Executive and Professional levelsBachelor's degree in any discipline
Professional BodyThe Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) administers the CS courseVarious universities and business schools worldwide offer MBA programs
Specialisation OptionsCS offers specialised areas within corporate law and governanceMBA offers various specialisations like finance, marketing, human resources, operations, etc.
Career OpportunitiesPrimarily focused on company secretarial and compliance roles, with opportunities in various industriesVersatile, providing access to a wide range of job roles in management and leadership across different sectors
Skill DevelopmentDevelops expertise in corporate laws, ethics, and regulatory complianceEnhances skills in strategic thinking, leadership, decision-making, and business management
Licensing/DesignationQualifies you as a Company Secretary (CS) upon completionProvides a general management education but doesn't confer a professional designation like CS
Job RolesCompany Secretary, Corporate Governance Officer, Legal Compliance OfficerManager, Consultant, Business Analyst, Marketing Executive, HR Manager, and various other roles depending on specialisation
Salary RangeCS salaries vary by experience and industry but are generally competitiveMBA salaries vary widely based on specialisation, location, and experience, but can be high, especially in top positions and sectors
 
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Career Options After CS

Let’s take a look at after CS jobs and salary:

CS Jobs 

Similar to a Chartered Accountant, a Company Secretary is a crucial support structure for all types of businesses, whether they are large or small, public or private. A CS is necessary for managing standard tax, legal, and investment issues. Many organizations employ such individuals, however, some choose to use the services offered by Company Secretary agencies.

All industries, including financial institutions, banks, heavy industry, as well as governmental organisations, will hire a trained company secretary. Here are the employment roles that company secretary graduates can fill:

1. Chief Administrative Officer: They look into the general administrative activity undertaken by the company and all secret documents relating to legal and other necessities of a company are kept safe under their strict observation.

2. Corporate Planner: They ensure and plan for the company's potential growth, as well as deal with mergers, joint ventures, alliances, or takeovers within and outside the firm.

3. Legal Advisor: They become representatives to the company for any legal problems and ensure that the company maintains adherence to all bureaucratic as well as legislative requirements and securities and corporate regulations.

4. Business Consultant: Business consultants manage marketing, management, finance, human resources, and accounting. They are in charge of improving a company's numerous operations. They evaluate a company's many flaws and recommend business remedies.

5. Corporate Policymaker: They create the organisation's short- and long-term corporate policies. They also guide the organisation during a review of current policies regularly.

6. Administrative Secretary: They help the executives, directors, or department head-level employees with high-level clerical support by executing several secretarial responsibilities and skilled activities. The activities include creating reports, conducting research, and collecting data.

7. Managing Director: They run the entire business operations of the company, including people activities and legal affairs, with a view to getting the best out of the organisation.

8. Director/ Member of Board of Directors: They provide secretarial and expert advice to one of the members of a company's board of directors.

CS Salary

In corporate organisations, company secretaries hold prestigious positions of authority. A certified CS has the potential to earn a substantial income based on their qualifications, skills, and experience. The table provided below displays the standard company secretary salary range for qualified individuals in the role of CS serving as a useful reference:

Job ProfilesAverage Annual Salary
Business ConsultantRs. 4,00,000 - Rs. 10,00,000
Company SecretaryRs. 3,00,000 - Rs.15,00,000
CS Legal AdvisorRs. 3,50,000 - Rs. 5,50,000
Chief Financial OfficerRs. 4,00,000 - Rs. 9,00,000
Chief Administrative OfficerRs. 5,00,000 - Rs. 8,00,000
Company RegistrarRs. 4,00,000 - Rs. 7,50,000

CS Employment Areas and Top Recruiters

Some of the employment areas for a CS are listed below:

  • Banks
  • Corporate Institutions
  • Tax Hubs
  • Financial Institutions
  • Sale & Excise Departments
  • Company Law Boards
  • Non-Banking Financial Institutions
  • Company Secretaryship Consulting Firms
  • Law Firms
  • Stock Exchanges
  • Government Ministries

A few of the top recruiters that hire CS are mentioned below:

  • KPMG
  • Deloitte
  • ONGC
  • HCL Technologies Ltd.
  • Jaypee Group
  • Punjab National Bank
  • DPNC Global LLP
  • Caddy Ventures LLP
  • JK Sarawgi & Company
  • PMS Consulting
  • Wipro
  • Accenture
  • Jaikumar Tejwani & Co.
  • ICICI Bank
  • Ministry of Commerce, Government of India
  • Air India
  • Amazon
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Courses After The Company Secretary Course

After doing the Company Secretary (CS) course, one can get the opportunity to choose from a variety of courses that will enhance their career prospects. Course choices depend on the specific career goals and particular areas of interest. Some courses one can take after becoming a CS are as follows

  • LLB (Bachelor of Laws): Many CS professionals prefer taking an LLB to gain deeper legal knowledge and become practising lawyers. This may lead them to possibilities in the practice and litigation of the law.
  • MBA (Master of Business Administration): An MBA is an excellent option if one needs to transition into executive or general management. One will be equipped with skills such as leadership, strategy, finance, marketing, and so many more.
  • Post Graduate Diploma in Corporate Law (PGDCL): This is a specialized course in corporate and business law. The center of interest by CS professionals therefore would be for deepening their legal expertise in corporate matters.
  • Chartered Accountancy (CA): Any finance and accountancy-learning student would like to pursue a CA qualification that complements his CS credentials to take up auditing, taxation, or financial management roles.
  • Certified Management Accountant (CMA): It is an international qualification awarded to management accountants. CS professionals interested in financial planning, analysis, and support in decision-making perform well in this certificate.
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA): The CPA qualification is also in accounting and finance but more aligned towards international financial positions.
  • Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA): For those interested in information technology and systems auditing, CISA may be helpful for attaining qualification in CS.
  • Diploma or Certificate Courses: Diploma or certificate courses of shorter duration in arbitration, taxation, compliance management, or risk management may be followed to acquire expertise in a specific area.
  • Executive Programs: Most institutions and business colleges have education programs for the experienced; most of these programs are to perfect your management and leadership skills.
  • PhD (Doctor of Philosophy): If you feel that you have a significant interest in research, then you can pursue a PhD in law or business or in any other related area.
  • Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE): In case you are interested in fraud detection and prevention, becoming a CFE would be quite beneficial to stand in front of forensic accounting and fraud investigation.
  • Certified Internal Auditor (CIA): It is unique to provide education and experience for internal auditing and governance. It is a great option for CS professionals who want to better their audit skills.
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FAQs about CS

Can I crack the CS course without any coaching?

Yes, you can crack the company secretary course without coaching. You just need a will to self-study with discipline, motivation, and commitment. There are many online resources that you can access for it. 

Is there scope for CS in the future?

Yes, company secretary as a career has a great scope. Every company, whether public or private, needs an independent or full-time consultant who can help them maintain legal and regulatory compliance. A CS helps with just that and with the way the world is heading towards innovations, digital transformations, etc., and IPR laws are getting stronger, a CS will play a major role.

Which is better to pursue CS or MBA?

You can choose CS if you wish to work as a specialised professional in the field of company law and compliance. You can just enrol in an MBA programme if you have the ability to manage both people and things, which is to say if you are interested in management.

Does CA gets paid more than CS?

A company secretary's starting compensation is between 3 and 4 lakh per year, compared to a CA's average starting income of 7 to 8 lakh per year with any major organisation. Therefore, a CA does get paid more than CS.

Which is tougher MBA or CS?

A CS course is more exhaustive than an MBA course if we take duration into consideration. Both, however, are two absolutely different streams of study with their own set of detriments. Notably, an MBA is a more general degree than a CS program which focuses on corporate law and governance.

Is CS course easier than CA?

Because CA is thought to be more difficult than CS, each of its course levels lasts longer than it does for the CS course. An aspirant typically needs 5 years, including the articles, to complete CA. CS, however, can be finished in just three to four years including the new training structure.

Can I complete the CS course in 2 years?

Yes, candidates who are graduate/ postgraduate/ CMA or CA Final passed can complete the Company Secretary (CS) course in 2 years excluding the mandatory training period.

Can I become a Company Secretary (CS) after 12th?

You can, in fact, apply for the entrance conducted by the Indian Institute of Company Secretaries at the national level shortly after you complete your class 12th. The entrance test is the CSEET or the Company Secretary Executive Entrance Test, and based on the marks secured, it grants admission to applicants seeking a seat in the CS Executive program.

What is the starting CS salary in India?

In their first one to two years of employment, company secretaries make a minimum pay of INR 2,50,000 per year. While a seasoned company secretary professional has the ability to earn up to INR 17,00,000 annually. The average annual salary of a CS in India is INR 6,30,000.

What is the age limit for a Company Secretary (CS) course?

When registering for the CS Executive course, candidates must be older than 17 years.  According to ICSI's eligibility requirements, there is no upper age limit set for applicants towards the Company Secretary programme.

How many papers are there in a CS programme?

The CS course is divided into three levels and each level of the course has different papers as mentioned below:

  • CSEET: The entry-level exam to the CS course involves 4 subjects including a viva voce on Communication skills and Presentation.
  • CS Executive: As per the new syllabus, the CS Executive programme entails a total of 7 papers divided into two different groups.
  • CS Professional: As per the new syllabus, the CS Professional programme encompasses 7 papers (including one elective from Group 1 and 2, respectively) divided into two different modules.

Is CS a good career option in India?

Yes, a Company Secretary (CS) is an excellent career option in India. Company Secretaries attain executive level positions in firms and they are instrumental in making cardinal decisions for a company. A Company Secretary is in direct contact with the shareholders and investors of a firm to ensure their interests are met and the company is functioning well under all the compliances and statutory requirements. It is a very respectable job profile and Company Secretaries enjoy a good work-life balance along with a handsome salary.

Is CS difficult to pass?

Yes, the Company Secretary (CS) course, especially the CS Executive and Professional levels are not easy to pass. The CS Executive level is more focused on laws and regulations and the exam questions are tougher as compared to the Professional level. On the other hand, the CS Professional level’s syllabus is huge which makes it a bit tough but still easier than the Executive level. The starting stage of a Company Secretary programme i.e the CSEET is not very difficult to crack and entails syllabus of class 12th level.

What is the duration of a CS course?

The duration of the Company Secretary (CS) course is 3 years and 11 months including the new mandatory training period. 

How can I become a Company Secretary (CS)?

Candidates who are interested in becoming a Company Secretary must visit the ICSI’s official website which is the conducting body of the CS course in India. If a candidate has passed class 12th then they must mandatorily apply for the CSEET exam and pass the same in order to get enrolled in the CS Executive programme. CSEET exam is conducted 4 times in a year in January, May, July, and November. Graduates/ postgraduates/ CA and CMA Final passed candidates are exempted from CSEET and they can directly take admission in the CS Executive course.

All candidates must pass the CS Executive and Professional levels with a minimum aggregate of 40% marks in each subject and achieve overall 50% marks in both the aforementioned courses in order to become a certified Company Secretary (CS).
 

What is the Company Secretary (CS) exam for?

The Company Secretary (CS) exams for all the levels of the programme are there for candidates to assess their knowledge, skills and ability to become a certified Company Secretary in India. A person must successfully finish professional training and pass examinations in order to practice company secretaryship in a professional capacity. The profession of company secretaries is governed and upheld by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI).
 

What is the CS course all about?

Company Secretary course (CS) is offered by the The Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI), which was established in accordance with the Company Secretaries Act, 1980, to regulate the profession of company secretaries in India. The CS Executive and Professional programmes are the two phases of the CS course. Candidates must pass the national Company Secretary Executive Entrance Test in order to be admitted to the first level i.e the CS Executive programme. 

For a few applicants like graduates/ postgraduates/ CA or CMA Final passed candidates, a direct admission option is also available where they can get direct admission to the Executive level by paying an exemption fee, however, they must then pass the CS professional course following that. To be qualified to work as a company secretary, candidates must successfully finish all the existing levels of the CS course.
 

Does a CS course include Math?

Yes, the CS course does include math, however, you need not to worry about it because the math involved is not very complex. Candidates will require the use of math in the following:

  • CS Foundation Course - The CS foundation course involves the subject of statistics that requires the use of fundamental mathematical operations.
  • CS Executive Course - A basic understanding of mathematics is also necessary for some topics like Tax, Cost, and Company Accounts present in the CS Executive course.
  • CS Professional Course - The CS professional course includes a financial management and tax component that calls for a foundational understanding of the subject along with basic math skills.
     

What is the validity of CS Executive registration?

From the month of registration in the Executive Program, the registration to CS Student is valid for five years. Students whose registration expires after the five-year period must have it renewed until they have completed the Professional Programme Stage.

What are some distinct features of a Company Secretary course?

A few of the unique features of a company secretary course are mentioned below:

  • No entry barrier opportunity is available to any student with a 10+2 pass or an equivalent qualification.
  • Economical course structure
  • Distance E-learning allows for around-the-clock study anywhere in the world.
  • Flexibility in the timetable and 3–5 years are allowed for registration.
  • Excellent prospects for a career in computer science
  • Powerful Positions and Prestige Offers Self-employment and Employment Possibilities
  • Direct access to the board room or top management
  • Favorable pay with room for advancement
  • Excellent career choice for women as well.
  • Opportunities in all industries and locations.
  • MOU on Opportunities Abroad with London's ICSA
  • Possibility to pursue an M.Com in Business Policy and Corporate Governance and a B.Com with a Major in Corporate Affairs and Administration from IGNOU.

What courses can I pursue after becoming a Company Secretary?

Candidates who want to better their job opportunities, increase their salary, upgrade their social status, and enhance their skills can pursue the below mentioned courses after CS:

  • MBA in Finance
  • Bachelor of Accounting and Finance
  • Bachelor of Law, etc.
     

Does a CA have a better job scope than a Company Secretary?

Both the designations have better job opportunities. A job of a CA and CS is a very integral component within a firm. However, a CA course is tougher than a CS course and CAs are in more demand in India and abroad because of a wider job scope, skills and competencies.

Can a Company Secretary work in government organizations?

Company secretaries can work in the public, private, and non-profit sectors, most frequently in local and/or federal government, nonprofit organizations, housing cooperatives, banks, and law firms. A company secretary earns a handsome salary while working for any government agency and it is one of the most respected and high-performing job roles in India as well as abroad.

Does a CA earn more than a Company Secretary?

The average pay for CA is higher than that for CS. According to Glassdoor, a Chartered Accountant in India makes an average income of roughly INR 8 lakhs, whereas a Company Secretary in India earns an average compensation of INR 6 lakhs.

Is an MBA better than a Company Secretary course?

Both fields are very different and it depends on the goals and interests of a candidate whether they want to pursue an MBA degree or go with a CS course. After becoming a Company Secretary, you receive a respectable compensation package. On the other hand, if you pursue an MBA from a reputable college, you will gain a broad understanding of management principles and skills. Also, there are many areas you can specialize in, including finance, marketing, operations, and human resources under an MBA degree. So, both the courses have their pros and cons, it is all up to an individual where their interest and passion lies, if they are more management and business oriented, they should go with an MBA degree, however, if they are keen on doing accounting, taxation, etc. then they may opt for a CS course.

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Related Questions

r

riya, Student / Alumni

-Answered on July-27-2023
You can reach the university by the help of toll free number which will be there in the official website of the LPU and even you can fill the form online after registration the university will reach out to you anyway and the counsellors will let you know about the university the your interested program. Hope this information helps you in better way possible.
r

riya, Student / Alumni

-Answered on July-22-2023
CSE is one of the most sought-after programs these days. India being global hub of software and back-office industries, this field has immense job opportunities. You must know the parameters on which to compare. Some are mentioned as follows: Curriculum: The course curricula of any tech degree must be very unique and dynamic. It must be developed with extensive consultations with industry. Tech trainings: The must students undergo many training like cutting edge technologies of SAP, Workday, waterfall other MOOCs, Advance Excel and many more. These skills come in handy for the students not only at the time of interviews and tests but also throughout their careers. Soft skills: There must be a dedicated effort by college/university in continuous improvement of personality, soft skills, professional ethics, interview skills, public speaking, presentation style development etc in students. These are must for placements as well as performance in the jobs. Exposure: The students must be exposed to large number of guest lectures and talks by industry experts, large number of events in university to enhance their organizing and networking kills, large number of social work initiatives to develop the right orientation and many more.
R

Rahul Raj, Content Team

-Answered on May-31-2021

Dear Student, 

To know complete information about Company secretary course, we suggest you go through the link mentioned below:-

All details about Company Secretary: Eligibility, Admission Process, Career Option

If you still have any questions about the Company secretary, please fill our common application form and avail experts assistance. You can also call our toll-free number 1800-572-9877 for FREE counselling.

Thank you

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