Company Secretary (CS): FOUNDATION

The Foundation Programme of the Company Secretary (CS) course offered by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) is the entry-level qualification for individuals aspiring to become Company Secretaries. Here are the details of the CS Foundation Programme:

1. Eligibility:

• Candidates must have completed 10+2 or its equivalent from a recognized board or institution.

2. Registration:

• Candidates who meet the eligibility criteria can register for the CS Foundation Programme.
• Registration for the Foundation Programme is open throughout the year. However, there are specific examination cycles.

3. Syllabus:

• The CS Foundation Programme consists of four papers.
  • Paper 1: Business Environment and Law
  • Paper 2: Business Management, Ethics and Entrepreneurship
  • Paper 3: Business Economics
  • Paper 4: Fundamentals of Accounting and Auditing
• The syllabus covers basic concepts in business environment, law, management, ethics, entrepreneurship, economics, accounting, and auditing.

4. Examination Pattern:

• The CS Foundation examination is conducted twice a year, usually in June and December.
• Each paper is of 100 marks and is conducted in English or Hindi medium.
• The examination is conducted in offline (pen and paper) mode.
• Candidates must score a minimum of 40% marks in each paper and an aggregate of 50% marks in all papers to pass the examination.

5. Exemption:

• There are no exemptions available for the CS Foundation Programme. All candidates must appear for and pass all four papers.

6. Registration Fee:

• The registration fee for the CS Foundation Programme varies depending on the student's location and other factors. It includes registration fees, subscription fees, and examination fees.

7. Career Path:

• After successfully clearing the CS Foundation examination, candidates can progress to the next level of the CS course, which is the CS Executive Programme.
• Upon completion of all levels and fulfilling the required practical training, candidates become eligible for membership of the ICSI and can practice as Company Secretaries.
• Company Secretaries can pursue various career paths in corporate governance, compliance, legal advisory, company law, taxation, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate restructuring.
• They can work in public and private sector companies, law firms, consultancy firms, regulatory bodies, financial institutions, and government agencies.

The CS Foundation Programme provides candidates with a solid foundation in the fundamental concepts of company secretaryship, laying the groundwork for a successful career in this field.