What is Company Secretary: Full Form, Course Duration, Admission 2025, Colleges, Salary & Scopeeer

The Company Secretary (CS) course is divided into three levels  - Foundation, Executive, and Professional. There are four core subjects in the Company Secretary Foundation course. The Executive programme has two core modules and the Company Secretary Professional level has three modules. A Company Secretary's responsibilities include advising the board and ensuring that the company is legally compliant.

A secretary should have a comprehensive understanding of the governance framework and ensure that policies and processes are documented. There has been an increase in calls for transparency in corporate governance, and the company secretary plays an important role in this.

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

• Foundation Programme
• Executive Programme
• Professional Programme

Yes, CS is a good career option. A certified CS can join finance, accounting and auditing firms which offer services to big organisations and multinational companies or they can start individual practice. They are also in charge of lowering the firm's administrative load and corporate governance, which would otherwise fall to the company directors.

It is tough for a freshly established firm or organisation to manage all administrative needs in addition to its day-to-day operations. As a result, it is critical in carrying out all of these company processes properly and effectively.

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.

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. 

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.

Yeah, it is totally possible to pursue a Company Secretary course along with any full-time job. This would require some amount of planning and arranging sufficient time for it. Look into online learning platforms, weekend classes, or self-study materials with flexible hours that can be adjusted according to your schedule.
The following tips can help you in balancing your studies for a company secretary course with a full-time job:

• Flexible study options: Do a course where you could have a say on the type of study to enroll in. The good news is that most professional bodies and universities that offer CS programs are also offering either part-time or distance learning.
• Weekend or Evening Classes: Search for classes that are conducted on weekends or evenings. This will help you in balancing your attending classes without having to miss work during the standard hours of the day.
• Online Education: Discuss distance learning or online classes that allow self-paced working.

The expertise and knowledge of company secretaries (CS) is in demand in various areas such as corporate law boards, various government agencies, and the Department of Company Affairs. So the candidate who has completed 12th class can register with ICSI to attempt the exams and start a career as a CS.

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.

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. 

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.

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.

The Common University Entrance Test (CUET) is not compulsory for Company Secretary (CS) courses in India. The CS Executive Programme requires the CSEET, with exemptions for graduates and postgraduates. CUET is for university admissions, while CS is a professional course offered by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI). Therefore, focusing on preparing for and passing the CSEET is recommended.

ICSI conducts Company Secretary examination for the following levels:

Level 1: Company Secretary Executive Entrance Test (CSEET)

ICSI CSEET examination is conducted in four times in a year: January, May, July and November.

Level 2: CS Executive Examination

ICSI CS Executive examination is conducted twice in a year: June and December.

Level 3: CS Professional Examination

ICSI CS Profesional examination is conducted twice in a year: June and December.

Candidates preparing for the CS Executive examination (Old or New syllabus) must check the CS Execvutive syllabus before beginning with their preparation.

ICSI CS Executive Syllabus 2023 (Under New Syllabus 2022)

 ICSI CS Executive Old Syllabus (under 2017)

ICSI CS exam pattern mentions the exam duration, subjects, marking scheme, exam name, and medium of the examination to the candidates appearing for the exam. Candidates appearing for the CS Executive or CS Professional examination must check the exam pattern to become aware about the examination. Check the table below to know the ICSI CS exam pattern highlights:

CS Executive examination for December 2025 session will be held in offline mode. Candidates will have to report to the alloted exam centre on the day of exam day. Candidates will be able to know the alloted exam centre when the admit card is released. The ICSI CS Executive exam will be held across India. Candidates will be able to choose the preferred CS Executive exam city while filling the application form. Candidates must carefull read the exam day instructions mentioned on the admit card. Test takers failing to adhere by the instructions will be disqualified. 

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.

No, candidates cannot pursue CS and CA courses together. However, candidates must pursue one course at a time as both courses are highly demanding and time taking. CAs typically conduct high-level accounting and auditing tasks in companies and CA firms, whereas CSs focus on corporate law and execute corporate compliance activities for large corporations. 

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. 

There are about 10+ CS colleges in India. Of these, Delhi and Pune have the maximum number of CS colleges in India. See the table below showing cities having major colleges:

There are about 10+ best CS colleges in India. Of these, 3 colleges are privately owned. The admission process is primarily based on merit. CS courses in India are offered in full-time, part-time and distance correspondence modes.

Some of the top CS colleges in India include Navkar Institute, ICSI Delhi - Institute of Company Secretaries of India, Elite IIT, ATM Global Business School (ATM-GBS), Commerce and Management Delhi, Good Shepherd Professional Academy, Academy of Commerce, Toppers Institute, and many others.

The table below shows the private top Company Secretary colleges in India along with their total tuition fees:

Joining the Company Secretary institute in India can be affordable. Listed below are some of the affordable colleges in India along with their total tuition fees:

The table below shows the distance Company Secretary colleges in Bangalore along with their total tuition fees:

Yes, CS is a good career option. A certified CS can join finance, accounting and auditing firms which offer services to big organisations and multinational companies or they can start individual practice. They are also in charge of lowering the firm's administrative load and corporate governance, which would otherwise fall to the company directors.

It is tough for a freshly established firm or organisation to manage all administrative needs in addition to its day-to-day operations. As a result, it is critical in carrying out all of these company processes properly and effectively.

The position of company secretary is quite prestigious and offers very competitive pay scales. It's something that makes you stand out from the crowd and is equally difficult in terms of training and homework. A business secretary is now required in practically every industry. They are in great and increasing demand.

A corporate or Company secretary is in charge of shareholder administration and communication, as well as corporate governance and legislative compliance. The CS course, or Company Secretary course, is specifically created for students with business experience. This course, however, is open to students from any field who have completed their 12 requirements.

The training to become a Company Secretary (CS) is offered by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India. The education is provided via remote learning, and with the establishment of this programme emerged the profession of Company Secretary (CS).

 A Company secretary's remuneration in various areas is adequate. Being a company secretary is one of the most accountable and visible professional jobs, putting a lot of pressure on CS to achieve results at whatever cost. As a result, corporation secretaries earn a high average income.

The starting salary of a Company Secretary is INR 3 Lacs per annum and INR 6 Lacs per annum for mid-level entry. These professionals can earn more with experience and an increase in the number of clients and reputation.

So, while there's definitely a buzz in the job market for Company Secretaries in India right now, landing a spot with the big-name recruiters and top companies isn't exactly a walk in the park. Think of it like this: there are more and more companies realizing they really need skilled CS folks to keep everything legal and above board, especially with all the changing rules. Plus, good governance is becoming a bigger deal, putting CS professionals right in the spotlight for making sure things are transparent and ethical. And the law itself says many companies have to have a full-time CS, which creates a steady demand. The ICSI even predicts we'll need a ton more CS professionals in the coming years!

But here's the thing: everyone wants to work for the best companies and the recruiters who can get them those gigs. These places usually offer better pay, chances to grow, and just a more prestigious reputation. So, they can be picky. They're looking for the cream of the crop – people with great grades, actual hands-on experience, sharp communication and problem-solving skills, and a really solid grasp of all the corporate rules. And let's be real, the number of openings at these top spots might not always keep up with the number of talented CS professionals out there.

Company Secretary and Accounting are the two specialisations offered by Company Secretary Institute in India. The table below shows the specialisations offered by the number of colleges:

Disclaimer: This information is sourced from the official website.

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.

According to the search results, Integrated Company Secretary (Executive + Professional) is considered better than Company Secretaryship at ICSI Delhi. Company Secretary (Executive + Professional) is a combination of Executive and Professional programs, offers a thorough understanding of the subject. Compared to Company Secretaryship, which is a stand-alone curriculum, this course is more advanced.

According to the Integrated Company Secretary (Executive + Professional), this is a preferable choice because it offers more comprehensive knowledge and greater employment prospects. 

Furthermore, ICSI Delhi has a stellar placement history and has drawn attention from reputable employers as KPMG India, PwC, Deloitte, and EY for hiring. Thus, it may be said that company secretaryship at ICSI Delhi is inferior to integrated company secretaryship (executive + professional).

The cost of the Executive Program is INR 2,00,000 for the first year and INR 2,00,000 for the second year. All fees (such as registration and exam fees) paid to ICSI headquarters will be reimbursed. Payment for fees may be made in half-yearly installments. The annual cost of the Professional Program is INR 2,00,000.

Prior to the start of the class in September, the first installment must be paid, and by the end of December, the second installment must be paid.
The third year is free of charge. The student would obtain a monthly stipend as defined by ICSI for the internship in the third year from the concern organization/ Firm.

The ICSI conducts placements for both executive level and profession for Integrated Company Secretary program. The highest salary package offered was around INR 10 LPA to INR 12 LPA. The average salary package offered was around INR 6-6.5 LPA. Campus also provides internships. The minimum stipend of INR 15,000 per month is offered in internships.

Overall, ICSI Delhi offers a huge range of opportunities for students to gain practical experience and secure employment in the field of company secretaries.

Yes, it is possible to pursue BCom through distance education from your own city and also pursue CS (Company Secretaryship) from the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) in Delhi.

Distance education for BCom is offered by many universities and colleges in India, and you can choose the one that suits your location and schedule.

You can study for your BCom program through online classes, study materials, and periodic examinations. To pursue CS from the ICSI, you will need to register with the institute and complete the required training and exams. The ICSI conducts its exams in several cities across India, including Delhi, and the exam dates are usually published well in advance.

However, it's possible that the exam dates for BCom and CS could clash, so it's important to plan your studies and exams accordingly to avoid conflicts.

Additionally, pursuing both programs simultaneously can be challenging and requires a lot of dedication, time management, and self-discipline. Therefore, it's recommended that you carefully consider your priorities and schedule before deciding to pursue both programs at the same time. 

Multiple degrees, such as CA CS and CMA are undoubtedly beneficial. It will undoubtedly benefit you, especially if you work in corporate. Personally, I believe that learning broadens your perspective. What's more crucial, though, is that you be able to use your knowledge in the workplace. Even having a large number of qualifications won't help you if it's not possible.

The decision to pursue these three degrees should entirely be driven by your passion for developing into a strong professional and your desire to learn more and more, not by Mr. X's possession of these degrees and his high salary. Undoubtedly, someone's large bundle motivates us to want that, but we should also be interested in how he attained these credentials and what aspects of his background make him so significant as to warrant such a large deal.

Candidates who have completed BCom 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. They are not required to give a CS Foundation exam

CS is not provide by any colleges.

It is provided by a foundation names icsi. If you want to study CS then you have to first clear the entrance exam of ICSi.

DU SOL is good as the brand Delhi University. For SOL you have to go just for exam .

It is a good strategy to pursue B.Com distance from branded college and focus CS.

Also you can explore about -

• LL.B after B.Com from DU / Jamia

• CUET

• CAT

It can be a good long term strategy to make a career in teaching ( after M.Com / MBA).

Yes, many people start the CS course at a later age in life and have very successful careers as Company Secretaries. Your age should not deter you, provided you have the necessary passion and dedication.

You already have a base in some of the relevant subjects, such as economics, business environment, communication, etc., because of your work experience. This can actually work to your advantage in the Foundation and Executive levels of the course.

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.

The difficulty level of ICSI CS Executive or CS Professional examination may vary. The difficltuly level varies depending upon the preparation level of candidate. CS Executive is the secomd level of CS course. 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.

To take the CS Executive Examinations, candidates must pass this pre-examination test & ODOP Before requesting exam enrollment, the Pre-Examination Test for the CS Executive programme must be passed with a passing score.

Some of the top recruiting companies that hire students from the top CS colleges in India are given in the table below:

Disclaimer: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

The registration for company secretary executive is for students who pass the Company Secretary Executive entrance test.

The Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) conducts the CS exam, this exam there is a level based there have three levels:

1. company secretary executive entrance test (CSEET)

2. Executive

3. professional

CS Exam eligibility candidates must have passed CSEET and at least 17 years old

If your registering through the CS foundation programme or direct admission as a graduate or post-graduate the total fee would be approximately 17k which includes 

registration fee, education fee, pre-exam test fee, one-day orientation programme fee, chartered secretary journal subscription which is optional.

Yes, a CS course is still valuable. Students can take a look at the table below for some details about the average salary and fees of CS colleges in India:

Disclaimer: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

Hi, Yes, It is possible to do both the course at the same time. And I will suggest you do an Online MBA with your CS Course Because a regular MBA required a lot of study and time.

If you will do an Online MBA, then you can channelize your efforts to crack the CS exam.

Yes, CS is a good career option. A certified CS can join finance, accounting, and auditing firms which offer services to big organisations and multinational companies or they can start individual practice. They are also in charge of lowering the firm's administrative load and corporate governance, which would otherwise fall to the company directors.

It is tough for a freshly established firm or organisation to manage all administrative needs in addition to its day-to-day operations. As a result, it is critical in carrying out all of these company processes properly and effectively.

For any course the minimum requirement of marks is 50%, if you are looking for any particular college you can apply for it, but if you are looking for B.Com you have to better and improve your Maths.

To pursue the Executive Programme of ICSI, a candidate must fulfill the following eligibility criteria: Possess a graduation degree in any discipline (except Fine Arts) from a recognised university or equivalent. Have cleared the Foundation Programme examination of ICSI.

If you have completed BCom Corporate Secretaryship and have also cleared the Foundation Programme examination of ICSI, then you are eligible to enroll for the Executive Programme of ICSI directly.

Yes, you can pursue a BLS LLB course after completing CS Executive. While the subjects of BLS LLB (Bachelor of Legal Science and Bachelor of Laws) are distinct from Company Secretary (CS) topics, the legal knowledge gained can complement your CS skills, especially in corporate law and compliance. Both fields involve legal and regulatory understanding, so a BLS LLB can be beneficial for a well-rounded career in legal and corporate sectors.