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Stages To Become a Company Secretary, CS Skills and Eligibility

Check the stages to become a Company Secretary, CS skills, and eligibility criteria. Learn the qualifications, training, and expertise needed for a successful CS career in corporate governance.
authorImageJatin Sharma1 Apr, 2025
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Stages To Become a Company Secretary, CS Skills and Eligibility

 

CS Skills and Eligibility:  Becoming a Company Secretary involves a series of stages that individuals follow to attain the necessary qualifications and skills for this profession. This profession is crucial in ensuring a company's compliance with various regulations and legal requirements.

In this guide, we will explore the step-by-step journey to becoming a Company Secretary, shedding light on the educational and professional milestones one needs to achieve. The process typically involves academic studies, practical training, and passing specific exams, ultimately preparing individuals to take on the responsibilities of a CS  with confidence.

What is a Company Secretary?

A Company Secretary (CS) plays a crucial role as an in-house expert, focusing on the smooth functioning of a company. They're the go-to person for legal matters and compliance, ensuring the company follows the rules. This includes dealing with corporate and securities laws making sure the company sticks to the decisions made by the higher-ups. Additionally, Company Secretaries act as key advisors to the board of directors. They provide insights on creating financial reports, shaping business strategies, and handling tricky situations like conflicts of interest. To step into the shoes of a CS, understanding their responsibilities is vital. It involves a deep dive into the world of corporate governance and legal compliance, making it a rewarding journey for those aspiring to take on this crucial role in a company's structure.

 

What are CS Skills and Eligibility of a Company Secretary?

A Company Secretary is a key bridge between the organization and stakeholders, ensuring seamless regulatory compliance. Here are the core responsibilities:

Legal Compliance: Ensures adherence to corporate and securities laws.

Board Advisory: Provides governance guidance to the board of directors.

Regulatory Reporting: Manages legal documentation and compliance requirements.

Corporate Strategy: Assists in financial planning and risk management.

Stakeholder Communication: Acts as a liaison between the company, government, and shareholders.

Stages to Become a Company Secretary (CS)

After finishing your 10+2 or equivalent, you can start the journey to become a Company Secretary (CS) through three stages:

  1. Foundation Programme
  2. Executive Programme
  3. Professional Programme

Check here below the three stages to become a Company Secretary in the detail:

1. Foundation Programme (4 Papers)

  • Business Environment & Entrepreneurship
  • Business Economics
  • Business Management, Ethics, Laws, and Communication
  • Fundamentals of Accounting and Auditing

2. Executive Programme (7 Papers)

MODULE 1:

  • Company Law
  • Economic and Commercial Laws
  • Tax Laws and Practice
  • Cost and Management Accounting

MODULE 2:

  • Company Accounts and Auditing Practices
  • Industrial, Labour and General Laws
  • Capital Markets and Securities Laws

3. Professional Programme (9 Papers)

MODULE 1:

  • Advanced Company Law and Practice
  • Corporate Restructuring, Valuation and Insolvency
  • Secretarial Audit, Due Diligence and Compliance Management

MODULE 2:

  • Financial, Treasury and Forex Management
  • Ethics, Governance and Sustainability
  • Information Technology and Systems Audit

MODULE 3:

    • Advanced Tax Laws and Practice
    • Drafting, Appearances and Pleadings
  • Electives (Choose 1):
  • Banking Law and Practice
  • Insurance Law and Practice
  • Capital, Commodity and Money Market
  • Intellectual Business – Laws and Practices
  • Intellectual Property Rights – Law and Practice

If you've completed graduation, you can skip the Foundation Programme. This structured approach helps you become a qualified CS with expertise in various aspects of business and law.

Skills Required to Become a Company Secretary

To succeed as a CS, you need a diverse skill set:

Legal Knowledge: Strong understanding of corporate and financial laws.

Communication Skills: Ability to present legal and financial information clearly.

Analytical Thinking: Assess legal risks and strategic opportunities.

Attention to Detail: Ensure precision in regulatory compliance.

Ethical Decision-Making: Maintain integrity in corporate governance.

Problem-Solving: Address regulatory and financial challenges efficiently.

Interpersonal Skills: Build relationships with stakeholders and executives.

Company Secretary Eligibility Criteria

Foundation Programme: Open for 10+2 students, must be completed within three years.

Executive Programme: Available for Foundation-cleared students or direct entry for graduates.

Professional Programme: Requires completion of the Executive Programme.

Practical Training: Includes mandatory internships, workshops, and specialized training.

Final Certification: Candidates achieving Associate CS status after successful completion.

Company Secretary (CS) Course Application Process

To become a Company Secretary, you'll need the following documents:

  • Recent photographs
  • Your signature
  • Secondary School Certificate (CBSE/ICSE) for proof of birth date
  • Higher Secondary Certificate or equivalent mark sheet (CBSE/ICSE)
  • Roll number if currently appearing for HSC or equivalent
  • Passing certificates with mark sheets for BCom, MCom, or CA students
  • Medical certificate
  • Caste certificate for SC/ST/OBC exemptions
  • Aadhar Card, PAN Card, Valid Driving License, or Passport

Ensure you have these documents ready when applying for the CS course.

Company Secretary Exam Fees

Check the below table for a quick overview of the CS Exam Fees:

Company Secretary: Exam Fees
Exam Name Fees
CSEET Programme ₹2000/appearance
CS Executive Programme ₹1500/module
CS Professional Programme ₹1800/module

Note: You can join the CS course anytime, with exams twice a year. Pass by scoring 40% in each paper and 50% overall in one attempt. Extend registration if needed by paying fees.

Medium of Instruction for CS Programme

The primary language of instruction is English, but efforts are being made to incorporate Hindi and regional languages to support a broader range of students.

CS Practical Training Programmes

To gain hands-on experience, students must complete the following training sessions:

Student Induction Programme (SIP): 7-day program within six months of Executive registration.

Computer Training Program: 70-hour training before Executive Program exams.

Executive Development Programme (EDP): 8-day session post-Executive Program.

Professional Development Programme (PDP): 24-hour training within 15 months post-Executive Program.

15-Month Training: Mandatory practical training post-Executive exams.

3-Month Training: For those exempted from 12-month training.

Specialized Agency Training: 15-day training in regulatory bodies after Professional Programme.

Management Skills Orientation Programme (MSOP): 15-day program after completing Professional Programme and training.

Becoming a Company Secretary is a well-defined process that combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience. It requires a strong foundation in legal, financial, and governance matters, along with continuous skill development. A successful CS plays a vital role in maintaining corporate integrity and compliance.

For CS exam preparation, PhysicsWallah (PW) stands out, offering quality education and comprehensive resources, making it an excellent choice for aspiring Company Secretaries.  Join PW CS Online Course for a thriving Company Secretaryship career now!

Related Links
CS Exam Pattern CS Syllabus
CS Eligibility Criteria CS Registration
CS Exam Date CS Result

Stages To Become a Company Secretary FAQs

What are the stages of becoming a CS?

The CS course has three levels: Foundation, Executive, and Professional. The Foundation has four core subjects: Executive includes two modules, and Professional consists of three modules. Also, for more details on the Stages of becoming a Company Secretary, check the above article.

What are the levels of a secretary in a company?

A Company Secretary is a senior position, often known as a Compliance Officer. It's a key managerial role within a company, alongside positions like CEO and CFO. Also, for more details on the Stages of becoming a Company Secretary, check the above article.

Can I complete CS in 2 years?

No, completing CS in 2 years is not feasible. The mandatory practical training alone lasts for 21 months, not to mention clearing all three stages of CS. Certain exceptions may apply, but 21 months of training is a standard requirement. Also, for more details on the Stages of becoming a Company Secretary, check the above article.

Is CS easier than CA?

Yes, CS is generally considered easier than CA, which is known as one of the toughest courses in India. While CS is challenging, it's not as rigorous as CA. CS focuses on Secretarial Auditing, and CS professionals can sign the secretarial report of a company. Also, for more details on the Stages of becoming a Company Secretary, check the above article.

Can I pursue CS after completing graduation?

Yes, you can pursue CS after completing graduation. The Foundation program is optional for graduates, allowing them to directly enroll in the Executive program. This pathway offers flexibility for those who have already completed their undergraduate studies. Also, for more details on the Stages of becoming a Company Secretary, check the above article.
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