How to become a Company Secretary ?

A Company Secretary (CS) in India is a Key Managerial Personnel (KMP) responsible for Corporate Governance, Regulatory Compliance, and Legal Advisory to Companies. The profession is regulated by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI), a Statutory body under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), Government of India.

Key Responsibilities of a Company Secretary:

• Ensuring compliance with Corporate laws (Companies Act, SEBI regulations, etc.).

• Advising the Board on governance and ethics.

• Handling Corporate Restructuring, Mergers and Acquisitions, Infusion of funds etc.

• Managing Legal documentation, Meetings, and Regulatory filings.

To become a CS, aspirants must complete ICSI's structured course, clear examinations, and undergo professional training.

Stages of Becoming a Company Secretary

1. CS Executive Entrance Test (CSEET) (Entry Level)

• Eligibility: 10+2 (Any stream except Fine Arts).

• Exemptions: Graduates/Postgraduates are also required to take CSEET (earlier Foundation course was exempted for them).

• Subjects Covered:

  • Business Communication

  • Legal Aptitude & Logical Reasoning

  • Economic & Business Environment

  • Current Affairs & Presentation Skills

    
    

2. CS Executive Program (Intermediate Level)

• Eligibility: Passed CSEET or exempted categories.

• Divided into Two Modules:

  • Module 1: Company Law, Tax Laws, Jurisprudence & Governance, Setting up of Business Entities.

  • Module 2: Corporate & Management Accounting, Securities Laws, Financial & Strategic Management.

    
    

3. CS Professional Program (Final Level)

• Eligibility: Passed CS Executive Program.

• Divided into Three Modules:

  • Module 1: Governance, Risk Management, Compliance & Ethics, Advanced Tax Laws.

  • Module 2: Secretarial Audit, Corporate Restructuring, Financial Management.

  • Module 3: Multidisciplinary Case Studies, Electives (Banking, Insurance, IP Rights, etc.).

    
    

4. Practical Training Requirements:

• 21 Days Executive Development Program (EDP) before starting practical training.

• 15 Months Practical Training under a practicing CS or a Company (can be started after clearing the Executive level).

• Management Skills Orientation Program (MSOP) before obtaining CS membership.

  
  

Final Step: Membership & Certification

• After completing all exams and training, candidates can apply for Associate Membership (ACS) of ICSI and officially become a Company Secretary.