CS Course

A Company Secretary (CS) course is a professional program designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage the administrative and legal aspects of a company. Company Secretary or CS course duration is 3 years and 11 months (including the latest training structure). The duration of the Company Secretary (CS) Executive course is 9 months and the CS Professional course spans 15 months excluding the training period.

The CS Syllabus is vast, especially the Executive and Professional courses’ syllabi, and candidates must be immensely dedicated to the study of the course to pass each level and get successfully certified by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI). 

Company Secretary Foundation course covers a range of subjects, including business environment, entrepreneurship, management, communication, ethics, economics, and accounting. Recently, authorities have introduced a new syllabus for the ICSI CS in 2022. This updated curriculum will be applicable to candidates registering from the 2023 session onward.

The Company Secretary Executive syllabus includes company law, commercial law, tax law, general law, securities law, and accounts & audit practice. Lastly, in the Company Secretary Final course, candidates receive instruction in secretarial practices as well as financial and treasury management.

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

• CS Executive December 2023 exams will be conducted from December 21 to 29, 2023, from 2 pm to 5:15 pm. The admit cards for the same will be tentatively available by December 10, 2023. 
• CS Final December 2023 session exams will be conducted from December 21 to 30, 2023, from 2 pm to 5:15 pm. 
• CSEET November 2023 session exam was held on November 4, 2023.
• CSEET admit card was released on October 27, 2023.
• For CSEET November 2023 exam, CSEET mock tests were conducted on November 1 and 2 through online remote proctored mode.

The CS course highlights section entails an overview of the CS course encompassing crucial deets on admission process, course fees, and course duration, among other cardinal points.

A Company Secretary is like the guardian angel of a company. They protect it from legal troubles, guide it through rough waters, and ensure it operates ethically. So, if you're interested in law, business, and being a part of a company's success story, the Company Secretary course might just be your ticket to a rewarding career.

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

• In-demand profession: CS professionals are highly sought after by businesses, making it a rewarding career option with ample job opportunities.
• Vital corporate role: Company Secretaries are essential for ensuring legal compliance, sound corporate governance, and efficient business operations.
• Diverse career paths: CS graduates can work in various sectors, including private companies, public organizations, and even as independent consultants.
• Prestigious designation: Attaining the CS designation adds credibility and prestige to one's professional profile.
• Career progression: CS qualifications open doors to higher managerial positions and board-level roles.
• Broad skill development: The course imparts skills in law, finance, management, and communication, making CS professionals versatile and adaptable.
• Contributing to success: Company Secretaries contribute significantly to a company's growth, stability, and success.
• Global recognition: CS qualifications are recognized internationally, expanding career opportunities beyond borders.
• Job security: As companies prioritize compliance and governance, the demand for qualified CS professionals remains stable.
• Personal growth: The CS Course fosters continuous learning, enhancing personal and professional development throughout one's career.

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 10+2: You can enroll for the CS Foundation program after completing your 10+2 education. This allows you to start your CS journey early and gives you an advantage in building your career from a young age.
• After Graduation: Many students choose to pursue the CS Course after completing their graduation. Whether you have a Bachelor's degree in Commerce, Arts, Science, or any other field, you can join the CS Executive program directly.
• After Post-Graduation: If you have completed your post-graduation, you can still opt for the CS Course to enhance your qualifications and career prospects.
• Mid-Career Switch: Even if you are already working in a different profession, you can make a mid-career switch to become a CS professional. The course provides you with the necessary knowledge and skills to transition successfully.
• Professional Development: Some professionals, such as lawyers, accountants, or finance executives, may choose to pursue the CS Course to complement their existing qualifications and expand their expertise.

Ultimately, the best time to pursue the CS Course depends on your personal circumstances, educational background, and career goals. It is essential to assess your interests and aspirations to make an informed decision about when to embark on this rewarding professional journey.

Who should study Company Secretary Course?

The Company Secretary (CS) Course is suitable for individuals who possess the following qualities and interests:

• Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Those interested in corporate law, legal compliance, and company regulations will find the CS Course relevant as it focuses on these areas extensively.
• Corporate Governance: If you have an inclination towards promoting transparency, accountability, and ethical practices in corporate entities, the CS Course aligns with these values.
• Organized and Detail-Oriented: Individuals who are methodical, detail-oriented, and can manage multiple tasks efficiently will excel in the role of a Company Secretary.
• Strong Communication Skills: Effective communication, both written and verbal, is crucial for CS professionals as they interact with company stakeholders, board members, and regulatory authorities.
• Analytical and Problem-Solving Abilities: CS professionals need to analyze complex legal and financial issues and find practical solutions to ensure compliance and smooth functioning of the company.
• Management Aspirations: If you aspire to hold key management positions in companies, a CS qualification can enhance your eligibility for such roles.
• Career in Finance and Corporate Affairs: For individuals seeking a career in finance, company administration, or corporate affairs, the CS Course provides a strong foundation.
• Desire for Continuous Learning: The CS Course demands continuous learning and staying updated with changing legal and regulatory landscapes, making it suitable for those who embrace lifelong learning.
• Business and Corporate Interests: If you have a keen interest in how businesses operate, grow, and thrive, studying Company Secretaryship will give you insights into the inner workings of organizations.

The CS Executive Entrance Exam or CSEET is the required entrance exam for enrollment in the Company Secretary Executive programme. The Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) holds the exam to gauge candidates' readiness for the position of Company Secretary. Students who have completed their 12th grade in any stream are eligible to take the exam. The CSEET exam is compulsory for all students who want to apply to the Company Secretary Executive programme.

With the implementation of the exam beginning on February 3, 2020, new registration to the Foundation Programme has been discontinued. As of that date, CSEET is the only entrance test required for enrollment in the CS Executive Program. The CS Executive Entrance Exam will be held on a single day and candidates must be aware of the following key points related to the exam:

The exam will consist of the following 4 parts as mentioned below:

• Business Communication
• Legal Aptitude & Logical Reasoning
• Economic and Business Environment
• Current Affairs

The exam will also entail a viva-voce of 15 minutes to test the candidate's Presentation and Communication Skills.

CSEET Eligibility Criteria 

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. 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 2 hours.

CSEET Registration Fee 

The registration fee for the CSEET exam is Rs. 1,000 and ICSI also provides concession to candidates from categories as mentioned in the table below:

CSEET Syllabus & Subjects

The CSEET syllabus includes four subjects that are listed below:

CSEET Exam Date

The CSEET exam dates are mentioned in the table below:

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 Executive course entails two modules with a total of 8 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 

On its website, icsi.edu, ICSI formally establishes the Company Secretary Executive level eligibility criteria 2023. Before submitting an application for the CS Executive course, candidates must review the following eligibility requirements 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 course fee structure for the CS Executive programme is mentioned in the table below:

CS Executive Syllabus and Subjects 

The syllabus for Company Secretary Executive course consists of a total of eight papers divided into 2 modules where each module consists of four papers. The CS Executive subjects in each module is as follows:

CS Executive Exam Dates 

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

CS Professional course is the final level of the Company Secretaryship programme. The duration of CS Professional is 15 months and after the completion of the course, candidates are required to undergo a Corporate Leadership Development Programme (CLDP) for a minimum of 30 days and not more than sixty days. Candidates can take admission 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

Candidates should consult the ICSI's official eligibility requirements before applying for the Company Secretary Professional course. The sole and fundamental requirement for the Professional programme eligibility is passing the CS Executive exam (both modules) with the minimum mark required by the ICSI. Currently, students must earn a minimum of 40% in each subject and a total of 50% to pass the CS Executive exam. Candidates must provide their Company Secretary Executive course level mark sheets or statements of marks for both modules and must also submit proof regarding passing of the examination.

CS Professional Duration 

The duration of 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 Company Secretary Professional programme fee as mentioned in the table below

CS Professional Syllabus and Subjects 

Three modules make up the Corporate Secretary Professional course syllabus, and each module consists of three papers. Thus, the CS Professional course has a total of 9 papers. The following is a list of the subjects for each module:

CS Professional Exam Dates 

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

The key points related to the admission process of the Company Secretaryship course 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 that will redirect them to the payment page.
• The CSEET application fee of INR 1000 has to be paid via online mode.
• Candidates can use a credit card, debit card, or net banking to pay the application fee.
• They will receive an acknowledgement email along with the fee payment confirmation and receipt which they can download for their records.
• Applicants who are already graduates/ postgraduates need not take the CSEET exam and they can directly enroll for the CS Executive level.
• Those who pass the CSEET will be eligible for taking 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.
• For the CS Executive and Professional course levels, students must note that they need to score 40% marks in each subject and an aggregate of 50% marks including all the subjects to clear the aforementioned levels of the Company Secretary 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.

To become a Company Secretary (CS), you'll need a combination of skills and attributes to excel in this profession. The following are some essential abilities and traits needed:

Legal Knowledge: As a CS, you must have a strong understanding of corporate and business laws. You need to stay updated on legal regulations and be able to interpret and apply them effectively.

Ethical and Professional Integrity: Upholding high ethical standards and maintaining professional integrity is crucial. CS professionals often deal with sensitive company information and must handle it with discretion and honesty.

Attention to Detail: The role involves a significant amount of documentation and compliance work. Being meticulous and paying attention to even the smallest details is essential to avoid errors and legal issues.

Analytical Skills: You'll need to analyze complex legal and financial documents, as well as interpret regulations. Strong analytical skills are essential for problem-solving and decision-making.

Communication Skills: Effective communication is a must. You'll be interacting with various stakeholders, including company executives, shareholders, and government authorities. The ability to convey information clearly and concisely is vital.

Organizational Skills: CS professionals often manage a company's records and compliance documents. Good organizational skills help you keep these records in order and easily accessible.

Time Management: Juggling multiple tasks and deadlines is common in this profession. Being able to manage your time efficiently is essential to meet regulatory requirements and complete tasks promptly.

Negotiation Skills: In corporate governance and compliance, you may need to negotiate with various parties. Strong negotiation skills can help resolve disputes and reach mutually beneficial agreements.

Risk Management: A big part of the job is identifying and reducing risks. CS professionals need to assess potential legal and compliance risks and develop strategies to minimize them.

Business Acumen: Understanding the broader business environment and the company's goals and strategies is essential. CS professionals often provide advice to company boards on governance matters.

Adaptability: Laws and regulations can change, so you must adapt to new legal requirements and stay informed about the latest developments in the corporate world.

Research Skills: You may need to conduct research on legal matters, regulations, or industry trends. Strong research skills will help you stay well-informed.

Interpersonal Skills: Building relationships and working collaboratively with colleagues and stakeholders are important. Being approachable and a good team player can enhance your effectiveness.

Becoming a successful Company Secretary requires a combination of education, training, and the development of these skills. It's a profession that demands continuous learning and adaptability to meet the ever-evolving demands of the corporate world.

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.

CS vs CMA: Which is Better?

CMA stands for Certified Management Accountant, and the Institute of Certified Management Accountants (ICMA) is the proper sponsor and provider of this education. The Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) offers the CS course, which stands for Company Secretary, which is focused on corporate law and regulations as opposed to the CMA course, which is focused on cost and management accounting.

Company Secretary (CS) vs MBA

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

CS is ideal for those interested in legal and regulatory aspects of corporate governance, while an MBA provides a broader business education that opens doors to various management roles.

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 organizations, will hire a trained company secretary. A lucrative professional path, CS has a high degree of job satisfaction and is in high demand from both public and private institutions. The following are the employment profiles that graduates of the company secretary programme can pursue:

1. Chief Administrative Officer: They keep an eye on the company's general administrative activity and keep all legal and other classified documents protected.

2. Corporate Planner: They meticulously oversee and plan the firm's expansion potential as well as manage mergers, joint ventures, collaborations, and takeovers both within and beyond the company.

3. Legal Advisor: They represent the company in any legal problems and ensure that it follows all bureaucratic and legislative requirements, as well as securities and corporate regulations.

4. Business Consultant: Business consultants are in charge of 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 organization's short- and long-term corporate policies. They also guide the organization during a review of current policies regularly.

6. Administrative Secretary: They assist executive, director, or department head-level employees with high-level clerical support by executing a variety of secretarial responsibilities and skilled activities, such as creating reports, conducting research, and collecting data.

7. Managing Director: They oversee and manage all of the company's business operations, personnel activities, and legal matters. They know how to get the most out of the organization. The director should have exceptional business acumen and be confident in the company's long-term growth.

8. Member of Board of Directors: They are in charge of providing secretarial and expert advice to one of the members of a company's board of directors.

CS Salary

In corporate organizations, 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 salary range for qualified individuals in the role of CS serving as a useful reference:

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

After completing the Company Secretary (CS) course, you have various options to further your education and enhance your career prospects. Your choice of courses will depend on your career goals and areas of interest. Here are some courses you can consider after becoming a CS:

LLB (Bachelor of Laws): Many CS professionals choose to pursue a law degree (LLB) to deepen their legal knowledge and potentially become practising lawyers. This can open up opportunities in legal practice and advocacy.

MBA (Master of Business Administration): An MBA can be a valuable option, especially if you want to transition into broader management roles. It equips you with skills in leadership, strategy, finance, marketing, and more.

Post Graduate Diploma in Corporate Law (PGDCL): This specialized course focuses on corporate and business law, making it an excellent choice for CS professionals looking to deepen their legal expertise in corporate matters.

Chartered Accountancy (CA): If you're interested in finance and accounting, pursuing a CA qualification can complement your CS credentials and open up roles in auditing, taxation, and financial management.

Certified Management Accountant (CMA): This is a globally recognized certification for management accountants. It's beneficial for CS professionals interested in financial planning, analysis, and decision support.

Certified Public Accountant (CPA): Similar to CMA, the CPA qualification is focused on accounting and finance. It's particularly valuable if you want to work in international financial roles.

Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA): If you're interested in information technology and systems auditing, CISA can be a valuable certification that complements your CS qualifications.

Diploma or Certificate Courses: You can opt for shorter diploma or certificate courses in areas like arbitration, taxation, compliance management, or risk management to specialize in a particular field.

Executive Programs: Many universities and business schools offer executive education programs tailored for experienced professionals. These programs can help you refine your leadership and management skills.

PhD (Doctor of Philosophy): If you have a strong interest in research and academia, pursuing a PhD in law, business, or related fields can be an option to consider.

Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE): If you're interested in fraud detection and prevention, becoming a CFE can help you excel in forensic accounting and fraud investigation.

Certified Internal Auditor (CIA): This certification focuses on internal auditing and governance, making it a valuable choice for CS professionals looking to enhance their audit skills.

When choosing a course, consider your career goals, whether you want to specialize in a specific area, or if you're looking to broaden your skill set. Additionally, staying updated with industry trends and regulations is essential for a successful career as a Company Secretary.