Updated on Jan 7, 2025 05:58 IST
Pragati Singh

Pragati SinghSenior Executive - Content

CS admission 2025 is divided into three stages: Foundation (replaced with CSEET) level, Executive level, and Professional level. A Certified Secretary (CS) is a member of the ICSI. Their primary role involves maintaining the company's financial records, auditing tax filings, providing guidance to the board on legal and financial risks, and ensuring the company's adherence to legal requirements.

To begin with CS admission 2025, candidates must have passed Class 12 or its equivalent for the Foundation course. Graduates or those who have passed the Foundation level can enroll directly in the Executive program. The final Professional stage follows the successful completion of the Executive program of CS admission 2025.

Upon completion of all stages of CS admission 2025 and a practical training requirement, candidates can become qualified Company Secretaries, playing pivotal roles in corporate governance and compliance within Indian companies.

Enrollment in the CS course is available year-round, whereas the exams are conducted biannually for CS admission 2025. The duration of the CS course is 8 months for CS Foundation, 9 months for CS Executive, and 15 months for CS Professional levels. 

Candidates can continue reading further about the CS admission 2025. 

CS Admission 2025 Latest Updates:

Table of Contents
  1. CS Admission Process 2025
  2. CS Admission 2025: Quick Preparation Tips
  3. CS Exams 2025
    • 3.1 CS Exam Syllabus
  4. CS Best Colleges 2025: Admission Details
    • 4.1 CS Admission in Government Universities
    • 4.2 CS Admission in Private Universities
  5. CS Career FAQs

CS Admission Process 2025

The CS admission procedure varies across its three levels -

  • Prospective candidates must register for the CSEET exam as the first step. They are required to complete an online application and submit the applicable fee before the deadline. Once their application is approved, CS course materials will be provided.
  • Following this, students must pass the CSEET, which is held four times annually. In contrast, the CS Executive and CS Professional level exams are conducted twice a year, in June and December.

The duration of the Company Secretary course typically ranges from 3 to 5 years, depending on how long students take to clear their exams.

CS Admission 2025: Quick Preparation Tips

Preparing for CS admission 2025 requires a structured approach and dedication. Here are some quick preparation tips to help one get ready for CS admission 2025:

  • Familiarize yourself with the syllabus.
  • Allocate specific hours each day for study.
  • Break down the syllabus into manageable sections.
  • Use study material provided by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI).
  • Focus on key areas.
  • Consider enrolling in coaching classes for structured learning and expert guidance.
  • Regularly read business newspapers and journals.
  • Practice managing your time effectively during preparation and exams.
  • Take as many mock tests as possible to familiarize yourself with the exam pattern.

Relevant Links for CS Admission 2025:

Know ICSI Exam Details

Best Books for ICSI CS 2025 Executive, Professional Examination; Download Study Material

CS Exams 2025

The Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) is a prominent national professional organisation in India that is owned by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India, and whose mission is to promote, regulate, and grow the profession of company secretaries in India. There are approximately 18 CS Colleges in India that train people to become professional Company Secretaries. Admission to the CS course is available all year. 

To enroll for CS admission, candidates must go through three levels of CS exams - CSEET, Executive level and Professional level.

Entrance Exams Exam Dates Exam Schedule
ICSI CSEET 2025

CSEET Exam Date 2025 Jan session: 11 Jan '25

CSEET Exam Date 2025 May session: 05 May '25 - 06 May '25

ICSI CSEET Schedule
CS Executive 

01 Jun '25 - 08 Jun '25

CS Executive Schedule 
CS Professional

01 Jun '25 - 10 Jun '25

CS Professional Schedule

CS Admission 2025 Relevant Information:

ICSI CSEET Exam Frequently Asked Questions for Online Proctored Examination

ICSI CSEET Exam: Important instructions for remote proctored mode

CS Exam Syllabus

The CS exam syllabus is comprehensive, and designed to equip candidates with the necessary knowledge and skills for excelling in corporate governance, law, and management.

Candidates can refer to the table below to see the CS exam syllabus for each CS exam level:

Exam Levels Syllabus
CSEET The syllabus of CSEET is divided into four papers viz., Business Communication, Legal Aptitude and Logical Reasoning, Economic & Business Environment, Current Affairs, Presentation & Communication Skills. 
CS Executive Combination of both 20% case-based objective type questions and 80% descriptive questions in all papers at Executive Programme except Paper No. 4 i.e. Corporate Accounting and Financial Management which is 100% descriptive.
CS Professional
  • Descriptive
  • For Elective Papers: Descriptive & Open Book

CS Admission 2025 Useful Links:

Click to Know What is ICSI

Financial Institutions: Types, Roles, and Advantages

CS Best Colleges 2025: Admission Details

There are 76 of colleges in India that offer Company Secretary. 45 of private owned institutions, 6 of public / government owned institutions and 3 of public private owned institutions in the India that provide the Company Secretary.

CS Admission in Government Universities

There are very few colleges in India that provide Company Secretary courses. Some of the are mentioned in the table below along with their course fees:

Name of College

CS Course Fees

CS Course Details

Shyam Lal College, University of Delhi

INR 540 Shyam Lal College, DU CS

Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University

NA Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University CS

Madhya Pradesh Bhoj Open University

NA Madhya Pradesh Bhoj Open University CS

Directorate of Distance Education, Alagappa University

INR 26,400 Directorate of Distance Education, Alagappa University CS

Bharathidasan Govt. College For Women

INR 600 Bharathidasan Govt. College For Women CS

Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body and may vary.

CS Admission in Private Universities

Check out the private colleges in India that offer Company Secretary courses, along with their course details:

Name of College

CS Course Fees

CS Course Details

Hindusthan College of Arts and Science [HICAS]

 NA HICAS CS

Sri Ramakrishna College of Arts and Science

 NA Sri Ramakrishna College of Arts and Science CS

Sivananda Sarma Memorial RV Degree College

 NA Sivananda Sarma Memorial RV Degree College CS

Hindustan College of Arts and Science

 INR 1.14 L Hindustan College of Arts and Science CS

St. Joseph's Degree and PG College (SJDPGC)

NA St. Joseph's Degree and PG College (SJDPGC) CS

Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body and may vary.

CS Career FAQs

Q. What are the duties of a Company Secretary?

A. The Company Secretary is responsible for assisting the board and the governance process by advising and guiding the board on company law and applicable regulations, its own policies, and best practises in corporate governance.

The directors allocate the tasks of a secretary to the role. Act as the primary legal and compliance officer (including corporate governance). Company Secretaries also oversee the company's day-to-day operations, specifically ensuring that the corporation conforms with the law and follows its own rules and procedures.

Q. What are the placement opportunities for Company Secretaries?

A. ICSI provides its members with excellent placement opportunities. The Institute has a dedicated placement unit to help organisations in hiring both freshers and experienced Company Secretaries. Candidates are placed in PSUs, banks, and NBFCs, among other institutions. ICSI placements are managed by four regional offices and 70 chapters.

Corporates looking for CS and members looking for work are both served by Company Secretary Placements. Candidates can register for free on the institute's placement portal. The Institute runs huge placement drives to provide a proper platform for its members to locate work prospects.

Q. What is the importance of internship in the Company Secretary course?

A. Interns are hired by businesses of all sizes and industries to provide valuable assistance to the company and its existing workers. Internships are regarded as the finest way for a person to get information in his or her chosen field. These provide real-world experience as well as an incentive for him or her to put theoretical concepts into practise. In order to become a company secretary, candidates must complete an articleship for at least 12 months, 15 months, or three years. Internships enable businesses to invest in their own future success while also discovering new talent and future leaders.

Q. How to Get CS Membership?

A. A student is eligible to Associate membership if he or she successfully passed the Professional Programme examination administered by ICSI and has completed or been exempted from compulsory training based on experience, provided the student is 21 years old at the time of application. The approved Form-A must be used to apply for Associate membership in the Institute.

The candidates can apply for membership after going through the ICSI website for the latest information. After being admitted to Associateship, the student will be permitted to use the descriptive initials ACS after his/her name to indicate that he/she is an Associate member of the Institute, as well as the designation Company Secretary.

Q. How can I get admission as Company Secretary?

A. For CS admission 2024, candidates typically need to follow a structured process governed by the ICSI.

Generally, candidates start by completing the Foundation Program, followed by the Executive Program, and then the Professional Program. 

Each level involves passing exams that test your knowledge of corporate law, governance, management, and ethics. 

Once all requirements are fulfilled, including passing the final examination, you can apply for membership with the institute and become a certified Company Secretary, eligible to pursue a career in corporate governance, compliance, and advisory roles.

Q. Is CS easier than CA?

A. If you have a strong inclination towards law, governance, and compliance, you might find CS more aligned with your interests and possibly easier to pursue. Conversely, if you excel in accounting and finance, CA might be a better fit, even if it's more challenging.

Further, whether becoming a CS is easier than becoming a CA depends on various factors, including personal strengths, interests, and aptitudes. 

Both qualifications have rigorous academic and practical training requirements, but they focus on different areas of expertise. 

Q. What is the age limit of CS?

A. To enroll for CS admission 2024, candidates must be at least 17 years old. However, there is no maximum age limit in India for CS admission 2024.

The flexibility in age allows individuals from various educational backgrounds and stages of life to pursue this professional qualification. 

Q. Who is eligible for CS after 12?

A. After completing their Class 12 (preferably Commerce stream), candidates are eligible to enroll in the Foundation level of the CS course. 

Candidates from any stream can apply for the CS stream (Science, Commerce, Arts, etc.), except for those in Fine Arts.

Further, candidates must be 17 years old to apply for CS admission 2024.

Q. What should I know beforehand when entering a CS (company secretary) course?

A. Before entering a CS course, it’s important to be aware of several key aspects to ensure candidates are well-prepared and have realistic expectations:

  • Subject Matter: The curriculum covers a wide range of subjects including corporate laws, governance, company secretarial practices, compliance, ethics, tax laws, and management.
  • Study Commitment: The course requires dedicated study and a disciplined approach. Managing time effectively to balance study with other commitments is crucial.
  • Examination Rigor: The exams are known for being challenging, requiring a deep understanding of the subjects and strong analytical skills.
  • Practical Training: Practical training is a mandatory part of the CS course. This includes internships under practicing Company Secretaries or in corporate settings to gain hands-on experience.

Q. I'm from the Science stream, is it possible to do CS after graduation?

A. Yes, it is possible to pursue a Company Secretary (CS) qualification even if you are from the Science stream. 

After completing your graduation in any discipline, except for fine arts, you can directly enroll in CS admission 2024. 

The CS course is designed to accommodate students from diverse academic backgrounds, so your Science education will not be a barrier.

Q. What are the skill requirements to pass the company secretary course?

A. To pass the CS course, certain skills are essential for effectively understanding and applying the course material. 

Here are the key skill requirements:

  • Analytical Skills
  • Communication Skills
  • Time Management
  • Attention to Detail
  • Research Skills
  • Problem-Solving Skills
  • Organizational Skills

Q. What stream should I take in Class 11 to become a Company Secretary?

A. To become a CS in India, there is no mandatory requirement for a specific stream in 11th and 12th grades. However, choosing the Commerce stream can be particularly beneficial. 

Choosing the Commerce stream is advantageous but not compulsory. Focus on building a strong understanding of business and legal concepts, regardless of your stream, to excel in the CS course.

Q. Is it necessary to join a college to be a company secretary?

A. No, it is not necessary to join a college to become a CS. The CS course, administered by ICSI, allows candidates to enroll directly in the Foundation Program after completing your Class 12. 

While a college degree can provide additional knowledge and skills, the structured CS course from ICSI is specifically designed to equip you with the expertise needed for the role of a Company Secretary, independent of a traditional college education.

Q. Can I do a Company Secretary course with a full-time job?

A. Yes, it is possible to pursue the CS course while holding a full-time job. The CS course structure is designed to accommodate working professionals, offering flexibility in study schedules and examination dates. 

While balancing work and studying for the CS course requires dedication and discipline, many professionals complete the program while advancing their careers. 

Q. Is it too late to enroll for the Company secretary executive course if I am 28 yrs old?

A. No, it is not too late to enroll for CS Executive course at 28 years old. The CS course does not have an upper age limit for enrollment, allowing individuals from various stages of their careers to pursue the qualification. 

Many students and professionals enter the CS program later in life, bringing valuable work experience and maturity to their studies. 

Q. How many attempts are allowed in CA course?

A. In the CA course, candidates can make any number of attempts until they clear a particular level. They will be eligible to register for the next level only after clearing the previous level. For example, a candidate needs to clear the CA Foundation level to be able to register for CA Intermediate. For appearing in CA Final exams, a candidate needs to clear both Foundation and Intermediate levels.

Since, the level of difficulty of this course is very high, a maximum percentage of students make multiple attempts. Candidates who decide to pursue CA course, need to make sure that they are well prepared to a marathon of studies, preparation and exams. 

Q. What is the duration of company secretary course?

A. The course is for three years. The CS course is divided into three levels:

  • Foundation Programme
  • Executive Programme
  • Professional Programme

Q. My communication skills are not good. Am I eligible for a CS course?

A. Yes, you are. Computer scientists need a variety of technical skills, which include proficiency in software development, hardware engineering, technical writing and programming. They also utilise various concepts of mathematics to complete different projects.

Q. How to get direct admission for CS?

A. ICSI allows candidates to register in the CA Intermediate course through two routes. One is the direct entry route; and the other is the Foundation/CSEET route. Candidates who have completed B.Com course can take direct admission to the CS Executive course. To get CS certification, such candidates have to pass Executive and Professional levels to get CS certification.

Q. Is Company Secretary course difficult to pursue?

A. The difficulty of company secretary does not just lie in the studies and exams but also in appearing and reappearing for them while one does not give up. The subjects require a lot of preparation which would also prepare you for your career ahead. So definitely the course is difficult but with correct strategy and lots of hard work, it is achievable.

Q. What is the seat intake for Integrated Company Secretary in ICSI Delhi?

A. A total number of 50 seats are offered for Integrated Company Secretary in ICSI Delhi. ICSI in Delhi offers a Company Secretary (CS) course, which focuses on secretarial responsibilities and corporate governance. This course is designed to transform students into modern corporate professionals. 
ICSI delhi also offers correspondence and distance learning, with the option for optional classroom teaching.Admission to the ICSI Delhi course is open throughout the year.

Q. Are there unlimited attempts in CS executive and CS professional?

A. The Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) conducts the CS Executive and CS Professional exams, which are conducted twice a year in June and December. There is no limit to the number of attempts for either of these exams. Candidates can appear for the exams as many times as they wish until they clear all the papers of the respective level. However, it's important to note that there are some time limitations for completing the CS course.

A candidate is required to complete the CS Executive programme within 3 years from the date of registration and the CS Professional programme within 5 years from the date of registration. If a candidate fails to complete the course within the stipulated time, they will have to re-register and pay the required fee to continue with the course. It's important to regularly check the ICSI website for any updates or changes regarding the number of attempts or other related policies.

Q. Is Maths compulsory for CS?

A. The Company Secretary courses include subjects like Economics, Statistics, Advanced Tax, and Accounting, for which basic knowledge of mathematics and statistics is required. As CS includes Management Accounting as an important subject, it will be good if the candidates possess numerical knowledge.

Company Secretary course is a three-year study that prepares students to handle the legal aspects of an organisation or a firm, such as bookkeeping and tax reports. The Company Secretary is directly involved in the strategic discussion and decision making of a firm, ensuring that all actions are in conformity with legal, ethical, and regulatory criteria.

Q. What should I know beforehand when entering a CS (Company Secretary) course?

A. Here are the key things you should know in the beginning for a smooth and successful journey:

  • Attention to detail: A CS must be accurate and meticulous since intricate legal and financial regulations are involved. So, train your eye for details.
  • Sharp communication skills: A CS requires brilliant verbal and written communication for effective interaction with stakeholders, drafting reports, and making presentations.
  • Time management and organizational skills: Study, examinations, and an internship if any, require good time management and organizational skills.
  • Analytical and problem-solving skills: You will come across tricky legal and financial situations. Learn to analyze and seek solutions and move out of the problems efficiently.
  • The course structure: You should know that the CS course consists of three stages: Foundation, Executive, and Professional Examination. From the curriculum, try to grasp the pattern of examinations and their duration at each stage.

Q. How can I study for CS foundation?

A. You must analyze the CS Entrance Exam syllabus and identify your strengths and weaknesses according to various sections.

Another study plan for CS Foundation Exam is to make a proper study schedule by prioritizing your weaker sections at the top.

Q. Can I appear for CSEET if I have not cleared 10+2?

A. Eligibility Criteria for CSEET Exam: Students must have passed Class 12 (Senior Secondary Examination) conducted by the Central Government or State Government or equivalent thereto for the purposes of admission to a Bachelor's degree course. 

Q. Which of these is more difficult, CS executives or CS professionals?

A. The difficulty level of the CS Executive course and CS Peofessional may vary from person to person. The difficulty level differs at the individual's aptitude, preparation, and preparation methods. CS Executive is the second level of the CS course. The CS Executive course is divided into two groups consisting of four and three papers whereas, CS Professional course is dicided into two groups along with two elective papers. Additionaly, CS Professional course includes practical training wherein students gain hands on experience of CS practices. This practical training along woth the theoretical studies adds to the difficulty level of the Professional course in general. 

However, to ace both levels, it requires dedication and consistent efforts through preparation. Candidates must chalk effective preparation strategy to ace the difficulty level of the CS Executive or CS Professional course.

Popular Exams

Following are the top exams for Company Secretary. Students interested in pursuing a career on Company Secretary, generally take these important exams.You can also download the exam guide to get more insights.

11 Jan ' 25

CA Inter Jan 2025 Group I Paper I

13 Jan ' 25

CA Inter Jan 2025 Group I Paper II

26 Dec ' 24

CA Final Nov 2024 Result

13 Nov ' 24

CA Final November 2024 Group II Paper III

12 Jan ' 25

CA Foundation Paper I Jan 2025

16 Jan ' 25

CA Foundation Paper 2 Jan 2025

Jun '24

CT SET 2024 Counselling Start

TENTATIVE

Jun '24

CT SET 2024 Result

TENTATIVE

Popular Company Secretary Colleges in India

Following are the most popular Company Secretary Colleges in India. Learn more about these Company Secretary colleges (Courses, Reviews, Answers & more) by downloading the Brochure.

#30 The Week

1 Course
5.0
3.68 LPA

#47 The Week

3.6 LPA

#61 The Week

1.14 L
2.5 LPA

#87 Outlook

66.3 K
4.1

#74 The Week

4.0
4.45 LPA

#45 The Week

Popular Private Company Secretary Colleges in India

2.1 L
5.25 L
5.15 LPA

Company Secretary Applications open. Apply Now

1.32 L

#30 The Week

1 Course
5.0
3.68 LPA

#47 The Week

3.6 LPA

#61 The Week

Popular Company Secretary UG Courses

Following are the most popular Company Secretary UG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these UG Courses by clicking the links below.

UG Courses

Popular Company Secretary PG Courses

Following are the most popular Company Secretary PG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these PG Courses by clicking the links below.

PG Courses

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Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...

Answered a week ago

'To become a Company Secretary (CS), an internship of 15 months is mandatory, regulated by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI). The internship is split into two parts: 8 months under a practicing CS or company, and 7 months in a corporate environment like a bank. 'For banking profes

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Priya Kumari

Contributor-Level 7

Answered 2 weeks ago

If you want to do Company Secretary (CS) with BBA LLB and are looking for a college that is not too stringent, then you should look at private universities or colleges. Like- Modern School of Law, Amity University, or Sharda University. These institutions can be good options as they have flexible ti

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S

Sanvi Jha

Contributor-Level 6

Answered 2 weeks ago

CAs typically have a higher earning potential because of their role in auditing, financial management, and taxation. However, CS professionals can also earn pretty much, especially in big corporations with complex compliance needs.

N

Nishtha Rastogi

Beginner-Level 4

Answered 2 weeks ago

No, completing CS course in 2 years is not possible because of the compulsory 21-month practical training requirement. Exceptions may apply to specific candidates, but the standard duration is longer. 

K

Kartik Yadav

Beginner-Level 4

Answered a month ago

Of course, November can be a very appropriate month when the candidate must have prepared well in advance using the rest of the months and focused studying. Now that you are left with a month, here are some things you can consider in preparation for your plan: 

1. Understanding the syllabus: Importan

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S

Shejal agrawal

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a month ago

Yes, Christ University offers a B.Com (Professional) program, which integrates opportunities for professional courses like the Company Secretary (CS) program. This course is tailored to enhance students' prospects in pursuing professional certifications while completing their undergraduate studies.

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S

Shashwat Rastogi

Beginner-Level 1

Answered 2 months ago

ICSI CS December 2024 admit card will release tentatively on December 12, 2024. Candidates who have enrolled for the December 2024 session will be able to download the CS Executive or CS Professional admit card when released. ICSI CS 2024 admit card is an important document which has to be carried o

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Shruti Garg

Contributor-Level 10

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