Commerce & Finance · Corporate

Company Secretary (PSU)

⚠ Estimate — needs validation · as of 2025

A Company Secretary in a PSU handles corporate compliance, board processes, secretarial records, and governance support. In India, the CS route is institution-specific through ICSI, and PSU roles usually come through direct recruitment or campus/advertised vacancies after qualification.

Who it's for: Best for students who like law, compliance, drafting, corporate governance, and structured office work. Suits commerce students and detail-oriented candidates who want a professional qualification with corporate and government-sector opportunities.

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At a glance

Entry mode: Institution Specific
Exam shape: institution
Key exam: ICSI
Min qualification: CS course
Duration: 4.5-6 yr
Starting salary: 4-10 LPA (approx., as of 2025; PSU pay can vary by grade, location, and experience)
Sector: Govt/Private
Category: Commerce & Finance

Subjects / Stream

CommerceAccountancyBusiness StudiesEconomicsLawEnglish

Step-by-step path

  1. Choose Commerce in Classes 11-12 if possible, and build basics in accounts, law, and business studies.
  2. Complete Class 12 from a recognised board and check ICSI eligibility for the CS route.
  3. Register with ICSI and clear the CS stages: CSEET, Executive, and Professional.
  4. Complete mandatory practical training and develop drafting, compliance, and communication skills.
  5. Apply for PSU vacancies, campus recruitment, or government advertisements for CS-qualified roles.
  6. Clear the PSU selection process, which may include shortlisting, interview, and document verification.

Key exams

CSEET: entryCS Executive: qualificationCS Professional: qualificationICSI: institution

Top institutes / boards

ICSIInstitute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) chaptersIGNOUUniversity commerce departmentsIndian Institute of Corporate AffairsNational Law Universities

Similar careers

Chartered Accountant (CA)Cost and Management Accountant (CMA)Corporate LawyerCompliance OfficerLegal/Secretarial Executive
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Frequently asked questions

What is a Company Secretary in a PSU?
A Company Secretary in a PSU manages compliance, board meetings, filings, governance, and secretarial records. In many PSUs, the role supports the company’s legal and corporate governance functions.
What is the minimum qualification for Company Secretary?
The minimum professional route is the CS course through ICSI. After Class 12, students can start with CSEET and then move to Executive and Professional levels.
Which exam is required for CS in India?
The key entry exam is CSEET for most students. After that, ICSI’s Executive and Professional examinations are required to become a qualified Company Secretary.
Can a commerce student become a Company Secretary?
Yes. Commerce students are well suited because the course uses business, accounting, law, and corporate concepts. However, students from other streams can also pursue CS after Class 12.
Is there an age limit for CS course in India?
ICSI does not generally prescribe a strict upper age limit for the CS course. Eligibility is mainly based on educational qualification and successful completion of the required stages.
What is the age limit for PSU jobs after CS?
Age limits for PSU recruitment vary by organisation and post. Many PSUs follow government-style age relaxations for reserved categories, but candidates must check each vacancy notice carefully.
How much does the CS course cost?
Fees change over time and by stage. As of 2025, the total cost is usually much lower than many private professional degrees, but students should check the latest ICSI fee schedule.
How long does it take to become job-ready as a CS?
Typically about 4.5 to 6 years from Class 12, depending on exam attempts, training completion, and when the candidate gets the first job.
What is the salary of a Company Secretary in a PSU?
Starting pay is often around 4-10 LPA as of 2025, but it can vary widely by PSU, grade, city, and experience. Senior roles can pay much more.
Do PSUs hire Company Secretaries directly?
Yes. PSUs may hire qualified Company Secretaries through direct recruitment, campus processes, or public advertisements. Some roles are for assistant, deputy, or senior secretarial positions.
Is reservation applicable in PSU CS recruitment?
Yes, many PSU recruitments follow Government of India reservation rules for eligible categories, as mentioned in the specific vacancy notice. Candidates should read the official advertisement.
Are girls/women suitable for Company Secretary jobs?
Absolutely. CS is a strong career option for women because it is professional, office-based, and offers growth in corporate governance, compliance, and leadership roles.
Is Company Secretary a good career for me?
It is a good fit if you like law, rules, documentation, meetings, and structured work. If you enjoy detail, communication, and corporate processes, CS can suit you well.
What subjects should I study in school for CS?
Commerce, Accountancy, Business Studies, Economics, English, and basic law-related awareness are helpful. A commerce stream is common, but not mandatory.
Can science or arts students do CS?
Yes. Students from science or arts can also pursue CS after Class 12, provided they meet ICSI’s eligibility requirements and complete the required stages.
What are the main stages of the CS course?
The main stages are CSEET, Executive, and Professional. Students also need practical training and must complete ICSI requirements before becoming fully qualified.
Is CS better than CA for PSU jobs?
Neither is universally better. CS is more focused on company law, governance, and compliance, while CA is stronger in accounting and audit. The better choice depends on your interest.
Do I need coaching for CS?
Coaching is optional. Many students prepare through self-study, ICSI study material, and mock tests. Coaching can help if you need structure or extra support.
What is the scope of CS in government and PSU sector?
The scope is good in PSUs, listed companies, and regulatory compliance roles. In PSUs, CS professionals are valued for governance, board work, and statutory compliance.
How do I apply for PSU jobs after CS?
Watch official PSU websites, employment news, and recruitment portals. Apply only against advertised vacancies, then complete shortlisting, interview, and document verification if selected.

Figures are indicative and source-stamped with an "as of" year (2025). Confirm on the official exam authority website before deciding.

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