If you're a student of the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI), here’s a crucial reminder from the Institute itself—do NOT prefix "CS" before your name unless you are officially a member with a Certificate of Practice.
📜 What's the Issue?
ICSI has observed that some students wrongly use the title "CS" before their names. This might seem like a small error, but it's actually a serious violation of Section 24 of the Company Secretaries Act, 1980.
⚖️ What Does Section 24 Say?
Here’s the legal language, simplified:
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If you are not a member of ICSI, but:
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Pretend to be one,
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Use the title "Company Secretary",
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Use the letters “A.C.S.” or “F.C.S” after your name,
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OR if you are a member but don’t hold a Certificate of Practice, and you still claim to be practising
🛑 You are breaking the law.
ICSI Dec 2025: Notes for CS Executive and CS Professional: Handwritten Notes - Click Here
💰 What Are the Penalties?
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First offence: Fine up to ₹1,00,000
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Repeat offence: Jail up to 6 months, fine up to ₹5,00,000, or both!
📌 Why It Matters
Using the "CS" title before you're legally allowed:
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Misleads the public and employers,
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Damages the credibility of the profession,
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It can lead to legal trouble that might derail your career before it even starts.
✅ What You Should Do
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Wait until you become an Associate Member (ACS) of ICSI.
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Do not use "CS" as a prefix or add "ACS"/"FCS" to your name until you're officially entitled.
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Share this message with your peers to keep the community informed and compliant.
🗣 Final Word from ICSI
“Students of the Institute are advised to take note of this Advisory for strict compliance. The Institute shall be constrained to initiate action as per the provisions of the law against all such violations.” – Team ICSI
ICSI Dec 2025: Notes for CS Executive and CS Professional: Handwritten Notes - Click Here
Stay smart, stay legal—build your CS career on the right foundation.
1. Q: Can students of ICSI use 'CS' before their names?
A: No. Only qualified members of ICSI are allowed to use "CS" as a prefix.
2. Q: What does 'CS' stand for?
A: 'CS' stands for Company Secretary.
3. Q: What is the legal issue with using 'CS' before your name as a student?
A: It is a violation of Section 24 of the Company Secretaries Act, 1980.
4. Q: What does Section 24 of the Act say?
A: It prohibits non-members from claiming to be Company Secretaries or using the titles "CS", "ACS", or "FCS".
5. Q: Can I use 'ACS' or 'FCS' in my email signature if I’m a student?
A: No. Only qualified and enrolled members can use those designations.
6. Q: What is the penalty for the first offence under Section 24?
A: A fine of up to ₹1,00,000.
7. Q: What happens if someone repeatedly violates this rule?
A: They can face a fine of up to ₹5,00,000 and/or imprisonment up to 6 months.
8. Q: Is it okay to write 'Aspiring CS' in my bio or LinkedIn?
A: Yes, that’s allowed. Just don’t use “CS” as a prefix or imply you are a qualified professional.
9. Q: Can I say I’m a 'Company Secretary in Practice' while being a student?
A: No. That’s considered a misrepresentation.
ICSI Dec 2025: Notes for CS Executive and CS Professional: Handwritten Notes - Click Here
10. Q: When can I start using 'CS' before my name?
A: Only after becoming an Associate Member (ACS) of ICSI.
11. Q: What is the purpose of the ICSI advisory?
A: To caution students against illegal usage of professional titles and protect the credibility of the profession.
12. Q: Does this law apply only to students in India?
A: Yes, it applies under the jurisdiction of Indian law as per the Company Secretaries Act, 1980.
13. Q: Can I mention I cleared CS Executive or CS Professional in my resume?
A: Yes, as long as you don’t prefix "CS" or use misleading titles.
14. Q: Is using 'CS' on social media display names a violation?
A: Yes, if you’re not yet a member, it’s considered a violation even on social media.
15. Q: Can this violation affect my membership eligibility later?
A: Yes, disciplinary action may delay or impact your membership process.
16. Q: Who can issue a Certificate of Practice (CoP)?
A: ICSI, to eligible members who apply for it.
17. Q: What’s the difference between being a student and being a member of ICSI?
A: A student is in the process of qualifying; a member has completed all requirements and is officially recognised by the Institute.
18. Q: What is ACS?
A: ACS stands for Associate Company Secretary – a designation granted to new members.
19. Q: Can members without a Certificate of Practice say they are in practice?
A: No. That’s also a violation of Section 24.
20. Q: Where can I read the full advisory from ICSI?
A: On the official ICSI website or in the advisory issued on 15th April, 2025.
ICSI Dec 2025: Notes for CS Executive and CS Professional: Handwritten Notes - Click Here
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