ICSI Announces New CSEET 2026 Pattern and Updated Schedule

The Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) has announced a significant overhaul of the Company Secretary Executive Entrance Test (CSEET), set to be implemented from the June 2026 session. The revised structure is designed to test candidates more effectively on real-world corporate scenarios and align the examination with modern governance standards.

Released officially on November 17, the updated format introduces both structural and conceptual changes, marking one of the most notable upgrades to the entrance test in recent years.

What’s New in the Updated CSEET Pattern

A key shift is the return to an offline examination mode, with tests scheduled at designated centres across India. This move aims to improve accessibility and strengthen the integrity of the evaluation process.

The redesigned exam will place greater emphasis on practical corporate governance, focusing on candidates’ understanding of current regulatory frameworks, business operations, and contemporary corporate issues. The revised syllabus reflects ICSI’s intention to build stronger professional readiness among future Company Secretaries.

Revised CSEET Schedule From 2026

ICSI has announced the annual session plan to help candidates prepare under the new pattern. The exam and result timelines are:

• February Session: Exam in the first week; results by last week of March

• June Session: Exam in the first week; results by last week of July

• October Session: Exam in the first week; results by last week of November

Candidates may apply for:

• Verification of Marks within 21 days of result

• Certified copies of answer scripts within 30 days

• RTI requests within 45 days, with final disposal expected within 60 days of the result

These timelines ensure transparency and give students adequate opportunity to review their evaluation.

Why ICSI Updated the CSEET Pattern

The reforms aim to modernise the exam structure and bring it closer to the rapidly evolving corporate environment. By shifting the focus from pure theoretical knowledge to applied understanding, the new pattern seeks to develop Company Secretaries who are better equipped for real-time challenges in corporate governance, compliance, and advisory roles.

Industry professionals and academic experts have welcomed the move, viewing the changes as a timely enhancement that will strengthen the quality and preparedness of future CS professionals in India’s dynamic corporate sector.