How to Become a Company Secretary : Your Complete Step-by-Step Guide
- sagar s
- Apr 25
- 3 min read
Are you aspiring to become a Company Secretary and wondering where to start? The journey to becoming a Company Secretary (CS) is both prestigious and rewarding. Whether you're a commerce student, law enthusiast, or career switcher, the CS profession opens doors to corporate leadership, legal compliance, and governance roles.
At SuccessEdge Academy, we’ve helped hundreds of students successfully clear all levels of the CS program and become certified professionals. In this blog, we break down everything you need to know about how to become a Company Secretary, including eligibility, exams, training, and career opportunities.
Who is a Company Secretary?
A Company Secretary is a key figure in any corporate or legal setup, responsible for ensuring regulatory compliance, facilitating board meetings, maintaining company records, and advising management on governance. With organizations increasingly valuing legal expertise and corporate ethics, the demand for Company Secretary professionals is higher than ever.
Why Choose a Career as a Company Secretary?
Recognized and governed by The Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI)
Direct involvement in board-level decisions
Strong demand in both public and private sectors
Excellent growth potential in law firms, MNCs, and regulatory bodies
Eligibility Criteria to Become a Company Secretary
The CS course offers multiple entry points based on your educational qualification. Here’s a breakdown of the eligibility criteria at each level:
CS Level | Eligibility Criteria |
CSEET (CS Executive Entrance Test) | Must have passed 10+2 (any stream except Fine Arts) from a recognized board |
CS Executive (Direct Entry) | Graduates/postgraduates in Commerce, Management, or Law (min. 50% marks) can skip CSEET. |
CS Professional | Must have cleared both Modules of CS Executive level. |
CS Professional | Minimum age: 17 years (for CSEET); no upper age limit. |
How to Become a Company Secretary – Step-by-Step
1. Clear CSEET (Company Secretary Executive Entrance Test)
Mandatory for 10+2 students
Subjects: Business Communication, Legal Aptitude, Logical Reasoning, Economic Environment, Current Affairs
2. Register for CS Executive Programme
Divided into 2 modules with 8 papers
Focus on company law, tax law, corporate accounting
3. Complete EDP (Executive Development Program)
A short-term training post CS Executive level
4. Register for CS Professional Programme
Advanced legal, corporate governance, secretarial audit topics
5. Undergo Practical Training
21-month training under a certified Company Secretary or organization
Real-world application of CS roles and responsibilities
6. Become a Member of ICSI
Upon clearing all levels and training, you're awarded Associate Membership (ACS)
Enroll in the Best CS Coaching in Bangalore Duration of the CS Course
Stage | Estimated Duration |
CSEET | 6 months |
CS Executive | 9–12 months |
CS Professional | 12 months |
Practical Training | 21 months |
Total Time: Approx. 3–4 years
Career Scope After Becoming a Company Secretary
Compliance Officer
Corporate Legal Advisor
Governance Consultant
Independent CS Consultant
Company Secretary in MNCs, Startups, Law Firms
Roles in SEBI, RBI, MCA, and PSU sectors
FAQs
Q1. Can I pursue the CS course after 12th?
Yes, you can appear for CSEET after passing 10+2.
Q2. What is the eligibility for the CS Executive programme?
Graduates and postgraduates with 50% marks can apply directly for CS Executive.
Q3. How many years does it take to become a Company Secretary?
Typically, 3–4 years including training.
Q4. What is the salary of a Company Secretary in India?
Freshers earn ₹4–6 LPA; with experience, up to ₹15–25 LPA.
Q5. Is the Company Secretary course tough?
It is challenging but manageable with proper coaching, practice, and mentorship.
Q6. Which is the best CS coaching center in Bangalore?
SuccessEdge Academy offers expert coaching for CSEET, CS Executive, and CS Professional levels with excellent results.
Ready to Become a Company Secretary?
If you're serious about pursuing the CS course and want expert guidance, SuccessEdge Academy is your trusted choice in Bangalore. With top-notch faculty, structured modules, and personal mentoring, we help you pass each level with confidence.
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