Introduction
Considering a career as a Company Secretary (CS)? Whether you’re intrigued by the world of corporate governance, business law, or compliance, becoming a CS is a promising and prestigious path. But one question pops up often: How long does it take to become a CS?
Well, the answer depends on a few key factors — the route you take, your consistency, and how well you perform in exams.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the Structure of the ICSI CS course, the different levels, routes available, and all the factors that impact the total time investment. Let’s dive in!
ICSI CS Course Structure: Three Levels
The CS course is divided into three main levels, each one building upon the previous in complexity and specialization.
CS Foundation Course
This is the entry-level stage, ideal for students coming straight out of 10+2. It introduces the fundamentals of company secretarial work, corporate law, and business practices.
- Duration: 8 months
- Eligibility: 10+2 pass (any stream except fine arts)
- Exam Schedule: June and December
- Purpose: Lays the groundwork for deeper studies
📌 Note: As of recent updates, the CS Foundation is being replaced by the CSEET (Company Secretary Executive Entrance Test).
CS Executive Course
This is the intermediate stage where you start digging into the real meat of corporate law, compliance, tax laws, and more.
- Duration: 9 months minimum
- Eligibility: Either passed Foundation or are a graduate
- Exam Schedule: June and December
- Key Focus Areas:
- Company Law
- Economic and Commercial Laws
- Securities Law
- Taxation and Accounts
- Company Law
CS Professional Course
The final level of the CS program — this is where you get into advanced and practical learning. It prepares you for real-world challenges with specialized electives and deeper insights.
- Duration: 10 months minimum
- Eligibility: Must have cleared Executive level
- Exam Schedule: June and December
- Specialization Topics Include:
- Corporate Restructuring
- Secretarial Audit
- Governance, Risk Management, and Ethics
- Elective subjects like Forensic Audit or Banking Law
- Corporate Restructuring
Routes to Become a Company Secretary
Depending on your educational background, you can choose from three main paths:
Foundation Route (Approx. 2.5 – 3 years)
- Ideal for students starting after 12th grade.
- Starts from the Foundation/CSEET, followed by Executive and Professional.
- Typically takes 2.5 to 3 years, assuming no exam delays.
Graduation Route (Approx. 2 – 2.5 years)
- If you’re a graduate (except fine arts), you can directly enroll in the Executive Program.
- Skips the Foundation level.
- Average time needed is 2 to 2.5 years.
CSEET Route (Approx. 2.5 – 3 years)
- The latest route, replacing Foundation.
- Duration and flow are similar to the Foundation route.
- Offers updated curriculum and assessment methods.
Factors That Affect CS Course Duration
Even though there are average timelines, the actual time to become a CS can vary. Here’s what influences it:
Your Study Pace
Everyone learns at their own speed. Some students may sail through the syllabus quickly, while others may need more time for certain subjects.
Exam Attempts
Not clearing exams on the first attempt is common. Every retake adds six months to a year to your total timeline.
Elective Choices
In the Professional level, electives can influence workload and time required. Some electives may require additional preparation time
Work-Life Balance
If you’re working or juggling other commitments, it may slow your study schedule. Time management becomes key.
Understanding the Total CS Course Timeline
Let’s put it into perspective with an estimated timeline for each route:
| Route | Stages Included | Typical Duration |
| Foundation | CSEET → Executive → Professional | 2.5 – 3 years |
| Graduation | Executive → Professional | 2 – 2.5 years |
| CSEET | CSEET → Executive → Professional | 2.5 – 3 years |
Keep in mind, these estimates assume that you clear each level in your first attempt and complete training requirements on time.
Role of a Company Secretary After Course Completion
So what exactly does a Company Secretary do once certified?
1. Strategic Advisor
A CS isn’t just about paperwork — they play a key advisory role in corporate governance, ethics, and decision-making.
2. Legal Compliance Expert
They ensure that the company sticks to all statutory regulations — from Companies Act compliance to filing ROC returns.
3. Board Facilitator
The CS acts as a communication bridge between the Board of Directors, stakeholders, and government bodies.
5. Governance Champion
They uphold high standards of transparency and ethics in corporate functioning — vital in today’s business world.
4. Risk Management Professional
Trained to identify and handle legal and strategic risks within the organization.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a Company Secretary is a smart, stable, and rewarding career move — but it’s not something you can achieve overnight. Depending on your educational background and commitment, it usually takes 2 to 3 years to complete the course and get certified.
Success in the CS course is a mix of planning, preparation, and perseverance. With dedication, the timeline becomes just a number — because the career opportunities waiting on the other side are more than worth it.
FAQs
It’s flexible. It largely depends on your entry point (12th or graduation), your ability to pass exams on time, and how you manage your training.
Yes, if you start after graduation and clear all exams in the first attempt, you can finish in around 2 to 2.5 years.
Twice a year — in June and December for all levels.
Yes, especially if you’re disciplined. However, managing a job alongside studies might extend your course duration.
CSEET stands for Company Secretary Executive Entrance Test. It’s the new entry-level assessment replacing the CS Foundation Course for new aspirants.