How to Become Company Secretary in 2026
The definitive guide to the ICSI CS Course. Covering the new Centre-Based CSEET, Syllabus 2022, 21-Month Training, and Career Scope.
🚨 Critical Update: CSEET 2026 Pattern Change
| Paper | Subject | Mode | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | Business Communication | Subjective | 3 Hours |
| Paper 2 | Fundamentals of Accounting | Subjective | 3 Hours |
| Paper 3 | Economics & Business Env. | Subjective | 3 Hours |
| Paper 4 | Business Laws & Mgmt. | OMR (MCQ) | 2 Hours |
Passing Criteria: 40% marks in each paper AND 50% marks in aggregate.
🗺️ The 4-Stage Roadmap (Syllabus 2022)
Under the New Syllabus 2022, the journey to becoming a CS is rigorous but rewarding.
Stage 1: CSEET
Entrance Test. Held 4 times a year (Jan, May, July, Nov).
Exemption: Graduates (50% marks) & Post-Graduates can skip this and join Executive directly.
Stage 2: CS Executive
7 Papers (2 Groups).
• Group 1: Jurisprudence, Company Law, Setting up Business, Corp. Accounting.
• Group 2: Capital Markets, Economic/IP Laws, Tax Laws.
Stage 3: Training
21 Months Practical Training.
Mandatory after passing Executive. Includes 1 Month EDP (Executive Development Programme) + CLDP (Corporate Leadership Development).
Stage 4: CS Professional
7 Papers (2 Groups).
Includes advanced subjects like ESG, Strategic Management, and Electives (AI & Data Analytics, Forensic Audit, IPR, etc.).
💰 Investment: Fees Breakdown (2025-26)
The CS course is one of the most affordable professional qualifications in India with a high ROI.
| Stage | Fee Component | Amount (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| CSEET | Registration + Exam | ₹2,000 - ₹7,500* |
| CS Executive | Registration (Single Group) | ~₹12,900 |
| CS Executive | Exam Fee (Per Module) | ₹1,200 |
| CS Professional | Registration | ~₹13,000 |
| Training | EDP + CLDP Fees | Variable (~₹10k) |
*Note: Fee varies based on optional coaching services and concessions for SC/ST/PH categories.
💼 Career Scope & Salary
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (Student Doubts)
Is Mathematics required for the CS course?
Can I do CS along with B.Com/Graduation?
What is the difference between CS and CA?
CS (Company Secretary) focuses on Company Law, SEBI Regulations, ESG, and Corporate Governance (Laws).
Choose CS if you prefer theory/law over complex calculations.
What happens if I fail one paper in a Group?
Is the 21-month training mandatory before the Professional Exam?
Start Your Preparation Today
Don't wait. Check your readiness with our Free Mock Test.
Take Free CSEET Mock TestInformation verified from ICSI.edu (Official Website) as of Feb 2026.
