The Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) has announced important changes to the Company Secretary Executive Entrance Test (CSEET). These new rules for the exam pattern and syllabus will come into effect from theJune 2026examination session. CSEET is the first step for students who want to pursue a career as a Company Secretary.
Students should note that the last CSEET examination under the old pattern will be held in theJanuary 2026session. After this, all future exams will follow the new structure and syllabus. The changes include new fees, a revised exam schedule, and a shift in how the exam is conducted.
Key Changes in CSEET Exam Pattern and Syllabus
ICSI has made several updates to the CSEET exam. These changes will affect various aspects of the examination, from how often it is held to its duration and question types. It is important for all aspiring candidates to understand these differences.
The table below highlights the main differences between the old and new CSEET exam patterns:
| Features | CSEET Old Pattern | CSEET New Pattern |
| Fees | INR 2000 | Registration Fee: INR 7500, Examination Fee: INR 1500 per session |
| Concession in Fee | No | Yes |
| Number of Sessions per Year | Four (January, May, July, November) | Three (February, June, October) |
| Mode of Exam | Remote Proctored Mode (online from home) | Centre-Based Examination (offline at exam centres) |
| Number of Exam Days | One day | Four days for each session |
| Maximum Marks | 200 marks | 400 marks |
| Question Type | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ) | Subjective and OMR-Based Questions |
| Duration of Exam | Two hours | Three hours and 15 minutes per session |
| Negative Marking | No | Yes (for Subjective Questions only) |
| Facility of Marks Verification | No | Yes |
| Provision for Answer Book Copies | No | Yes |
| Validity of Registration | One year | Three years |
| Validity of CSEET Result | One year | One year |
Revised Exam Schedule and Important Dates
ICSI has also changed the schedule for CSEET examinations. Instead of four sessions annually, there will now be three sessions: February, June, and October.
CSEET June 2026 Exam Dates
- Registration for theJune 2026exam will begin onDecember 16, 2025.
- Students can apply for theJune 2026exam untilFebruary 15, 2026.
- Registered candidates must pay an examination fee ofINR 1500to receive their admit card and appear for the exam.
- TheCSEET June 2026exam will be held fromJune 01 to June 04, 2026.
- This exam will be conducted in offline mode at designated exam centres.
- Details about the exam centres will be shared with candidates through their admit cards.
Last Chance for Old Pattern
Students planning to take the CSEET exam under the current pattern must do so in theJanuary 2026session. This will be the last opportunity before the new exam pattern and syllabus become mandatory fromJune 2026onwards. Candidates are advised to visit the official ICSI website for more details and to stay updated on any further announcements.
