ICSI revamps CSEET 2026; exam pattern revised, new syllabus, schedule out

The Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) has announced a comprehensive review of the Company Secretary Executive Entrance Test (CSEET) structure with revisions made in the exam pattern, schedule, eligibility, and fee structure. The first session of the restructured CSEET will be conducted in June 2026.

The revised framework will also be effective from the June 2026 session and January 2026 will be the final session to be held in the remote-proctored mode.

As per the eligibility criteria, only Indian nationals can apply for the CSEET and candidates who have passed Class 12 board are eligible to appear for the competitive examination.

Whereas, students who have cleared ICSI foundation, final stage of cost accountancy course, and bachelor’s degree or post graduate degree exams are exempted from CSEET.

Moreover, students who are currently in the final year or appearing for the final semester examination of bachelor’s degree may also register directly to the CS Executive Programme.

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CSEET 2026 exam schedule, passing marks

The institute will begin the registrations for CSEET June 2026 session from December 16, 2025 to February 15, 2026. Candidates should have to pay Rs 7,500 as fee at the time of CSEET registration. This is inclusive of student induction programmes (SIP) and online classes.

The CSEET examination fee, which is to be paid separately, for per session is Rs 1,500.

According to the new exam format, the ICSI will conduct the CSEET three times a year, in February, June and October.

The examination will be held in offline mode and each subject will be assessed on separate days, and question papers will carry 100 marks. The exam will be conducted from 2:30 pm to 5:45 pm.

As per the passing criteria, candidates should have to obtain 40% in each paper and 50% in aggregate of all papers to be declared pass in the CSEET. “There is no provision for exemption or carry forward of marks in CSEET,” the official notification reads.

The CSEET June 2026 session will be conducted from June 1 to 4, while the registrations will be held from March 1 to April 7. The registration window for CSEET October 2026 session will be open from February 16 to May 31.