ICSI CSEET overhaul from June 2026: ICSI reveals new format, schedule and fee structure

The Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) has introduced a major restructuring of the Company Secretary Executive Entrance Test (CSEET), with the revised format scheduled to begin in June 2026. The upgrade is part of the Institute’s broader effort to align entry-level training with the changing corporate, technological and regulatory environment.

ICSI stated that the revamped framework will prioritise conceptual clarity, analytical skills, communication abilities and overall professional aptitude. Updated study material and improved learning support will be provided for the new format, along with changes to the examination experience. The Institute said the reforms aim to strengthen foundational competencies to better prepare students for the CS Executive and CS Professional stages.

ICSI transition period and final attempt under old format

The final session of the existing remote-proctored CSEET will be conducted in January 2026. Candidates who qualify in this session will be allowed to register for the CS Executive Programme within one year of the result announcement without an exemption fee. The restructured CSEET will begin with its first session in June 2026.

Eligibility criteria unchanged but clarified

Only Indian nationals are eligible to apply. Students who have passed or are appearing for the Class 12 (10+2) examination or its equivalent may register for CSEET.

ICSI direct entry

The following categories continue to remain exempt from CSEET and may directly enrol in the CS Executive Programme:

• Candidates who have cleared the ICSI Foundation Examination
• Candidates who have passed the final stage of Chartered Accountancy (ICAI)
• Candidates who have cleared the final stage of the Cost Accountancy course (ICAI–Cost)
• Holders of bachelor’s or postgraduate degrees
• Final-year or final-semester undergraduate students

ICSI fee

ICSI has announced the following fee structure for the new examination format:

Fee Type	Amount
CSEET Registration Fee (including SIP and online classes)	₹7,500
Examination Fee (per session)	₹1,500

The Institute will separately notify the schedule for the Student Induction Programme (SIP) and online coaching classes.

Updated registration cut-off dates

The Institute has set the following timelines for registration for upcoming sessions:

Session	Regular Registration Window	Special Window (Applicable Only for First Year of New Pattern)
June Session	October 1 to January 31	For June 2026: December 16, 2025 to February 15, 2026
October Session	February 1 to May 31	For October 2026: February 16, 2026 to May 31, 2026
February Session	June 1 to September 30	Not applicable

(With inputs from TOI)