CS Articleship, Know about Eligibility, Duration, Skills, & Working Hours

Learn about CS Articleship, including the practical training for eligibility, training period, skills, stipend, companies offering training, and the company secretary (CS).

One of the most reputed professional courses is the Company Secretary (CS) course, divided into three levels: Executive Program, Professional Program, and CSEET (Company Secretary Executive Entrance Test). Once a candidate passes these exam stages, they will also have to complete the necessary training.

The route to becoming a company secretary (CS) in India includes an important phase called CS Articleship. This practical training program is an important part of the CS course, which provides students with the guidance of a professional company secretary or within a corporate setting.

What is the CS Articleship?

The CS Articalence, which is officially known as a practical training program, is an essential component of the CS syllabus designed to bridge the difference between educational knowledge and real-world application. It provides students practical experience in areas such as corporate laws, secretarial practices, compliance management, and corporate administration.

This training can be done with a company secretary in practice, a company that meets the prescribed criteria, or under any unit approved by ICSI. It aims to familiarize students with legal and procedural aspects of company law, filing requirements, board meetings, corporate restructuring, and more.

Understanding the CS Articleship 

The Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) has introduced a structured training program that each CS student will have to complete. It also includes the

1. Corporate Leadership Development Program (CLDP) 
2. Practical training
3. Executive development program. 

Candidates passing the Executive Program will have to undergo 21 months of full-time practical training. This phase helps students understand the practical implications of corporate laws, compliance, and governance, preparing them for real-world challenges.

Eligibility Criteria for CS Articleship

To be eligible for CS Articleship, candidates have to pass the Executive Program of Company Secretary (CS) course. Additionally, passing 21 months of training under a qualified company, firm, or CS. Registration for professional programs is also encouraged during the articulation period for further progress. 

Companies Who Eligible for CS Articleship 

A CS can complete practical training under the supervision of a student.

  • A practice company is registered with the Secretary (PCS) of ICSI. 
  • Companies with minimum paid-up share capital according to a full-time company secretary and ICSI criteria. 
  • Law firm and LLP with partners specialized in corporate and legal compliance.
  • Government regulatory bodies such as the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), the Registrar of Companies (ROC), and other recognized organizations. 
  • The Bank and Financial Institute (RBI) is approved by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). 

Importance of CS Articleship 

CS articleship plays an important role in shaping the professional capabilities of a candidate. There are some reasons here why it is necessary: 

  • Practical Exposure: Articleship exposes students to corporate law and practical nuances of compliance, which cannot be fully learned through books alone. 
  • Skill development: It honors major skills such as formation, communication, problem-solving, and advisory capabilities. 
  • Industry insight: Working with experienced professionals helps students understand industry practices, legal updates, and emerging trends.
  • Professional Network: It provides opportunities for building a network of professionals and peers, which can be valuable in a career. 
  • Career Advantage: Experience during articleship increases employment and can give rise to pre-placement offers.

Skills Required During CS Articleship

Practical training helps students develop the necessary skills, such as 

  • Drafting of legal documents (agreements, notices, resolutions, and compliance reports). 
  • Understanding Corporate Finance (Financial Description, Compliance Filing, Taxation Act). 
  • Networking and communication (interaction with directors, professionals, and regulators). 
  • Problem and decision making (handling compliance issues, corporate administration challenges).

Duration of CS Articleship 

The duration of CS Articleship is usually 21 months. However, ICSI provides flexibility through various routes: 

  • After the Executive Program, 21 months of practical training after passing the Executive Program. 
  • After the professional program, 12 months of practical training start after approval of the professional program. 

Additionally, the Executive Development Program (EDP) requires 1 month before starting the article, and in some cases, special training of 15 days may be required.

Working Hours, Leaves, and Stipend 

To be eligible for CS practical training, candidates must work during regular commercial hours. This means that they should take at least 8 hours a week during the practical training period, five days a week, or 40 hours a week. A candidate is allowed 52 days off during the 21-month training period. Additionally, trainees will receive the following monthly stipend (only payable by online transfer or check):

  • If the trainee under PC is going through a period of training, then a minimum of Rs. 3,000 per month should be paid.
  • If a company or other institution is undergoing training, then a minimum of Rs. 4,000 should be paid every month.

Work Profile During CS Articleship

During the CS article, students engage in various types of tasks that give them widespread exposure to the company's law and corporate administration. 

  • Major responsibilities can include drafting and filing various statutory forms and returns. 
  • Helping with board meetings and general meetings. 
  • Maintaining statutory registers and records. 
  • Advising on corporate compliance and regulatory matters. 
  • Handle the secretary's audit and diligence. 
  • Working on mergers, amalgamations, and corporate reorganizations. 
  • Contact with regulatory officials like the Registrar of Companies (ROC), Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), and others.

Stipend for CS Articleship 

ICSI has set minimum stipend guidelines for CS trainees: 

  • With a practice company secretary, the minimum is ₹ 3,000 per month. 
  • In companies/firms: minimum ₹ 4,000 per month (for the first year) and ₹ 5,000 (for later years). 

However, the real stipend city may vary depending on the reputation of the firm/company and the performance of the student.

Tips to do Excellent in CS Articleship 

  • Be active: Show curiosity to learn and take initiative in tasks. 
  • Stay updated: Regularly follow legal updates, modifications, and circulars. 
  • Increase skills: Work on your communication, draft preparation, and analytical skills. 
  • Look for the response: Always ask your superiors for creative responses. 
  • Manage time: Effectively balance your study program with work commitments. Network: Create professional relationships with peers and masters.

Summary 

CS articleship is a transformative phase in the journey of a company secretary. It not only provides practical risk but also shapes the professional approach of students, preparing them for a complex corporate world. To avail the maximum benefit of this period, approach it with dedication, curiosity, and a positive attitude. The experience you receive during your CS Article will serve as a successful and strong base for a full career.

FAQs

What is the articleship period for CS?

CS Articulation, or Practical Training Period, is 21 months long and is mandatory to become the company's secretary. It begins after completing a month-long Executive Development Program (EDP). This period provides hands-on experience in areas such as corporate administration, compliance, and regulatory matters.

What is the salary of a CS articleship?

The CS articleship stipend, according to ICSI, is different based on the level of the CS course the student is at and whether they are training under a company or a firm. For the most part, the minimum stipend is higher for students who have passed the executive or professional levels of the CS course.

Can I complete CS in 2 years?

No, the company secretary (CS) course usually takes more than 2 years to complete, about 3 to 4 years, which depends on your initial point and how soon you complete the exam. While some routes may allow you to potentially complete the course in 2 years with exemption and rapid-tracked progression, the standard time limit includes compulsory 21-month practical training in the standard time frame.

Which Big 4 is best for CS articleship?

A single "best" for CS Articleship is not the Big 4, as each firm has its strengths and weaknesses. The ideal choice depends on individual preferences and career goals. Big 4 firms such as Deloitte, Ernst & Young (EY), KPMG, and PricewaterhouseCoopers (PWC) offer opportunities for CS articleship, with each firm offering expertise and unique learning experiences in various fields.

What is the salary of a CS intern?

The salary of CS intern varies in India, usually on the basis of firm, location, and industry, ranging from ₹ 5,000 to ₹ 15,000 per month. Some firms may also provide a stipend or other benefits instead of a certain salary.

Which company is best for CS articleship?

For CS articles, the "Big Four" firms (Deloitte, Ernst & Young, KPMG, and PWC) are highly demanded after offering wide performance and rigorous training. These firms, along with other established names such as Grant Thornton, BDO, and RSM, provide opportunities for CS trainees.

Do CS earn more than CAs?

Generally, chartered accountants (CA) earn more than company secretaries (CSS), especially in their early years. The CAS has a widespread scope in finance and accounting, which has high earning capacity, while CSS usually focuses on corporate administration and legal compliance.

What is the highest stipend in Articleship?

The highest CA Articalence stipend is usually introduced by the Big 4 accounting firms (deliit, EY, KPMG and PWC). While there is no fixed maximum stipend, these firms often pay much more than small firms or medium-sized firms. The average stipend for Big 4 in metro cities is around 15,000 in the first year, 20,000 in the second, and 25,000 in the third year, as well as travel expenses.

Is CS tougher than CA?

It is generally believed that the Chartered Accountancy (CA) course is more challenging than the Company Secretary (CS) course. CA exams are known for their low rates and demanding courses, while CS requires dedication; those who like to learn theoretically may find it less difficult than them.

What is the age limit for CS?

A minimum age is required to enroll in the CS Executive Program, but there is no maximum age limit. To register for the CS Executive Examination, your age should be at least 17 years. There is no upper age limit for the CS course, which means that individuals of any age can pursue it.