Figuring out what to do after 12th grade can feel like a huge decision! So many options, so much to think about. One of the best ways to open doors to your dream career is by taking entrance exams. These tests can help you get into great colleges and universities. Let’s explore some of the top exams you can take after finishing your 12th-grade studies.
Engineering Exams
Do you love building things, solving problems, and working with technology? If so, engineering might be the perfect field for you! Here are some top engineering entrance exams:
JEE Main & JEE Advanced
JEE stands for Joint Entrance Examination. JEE Main is the first step to getting into top engineering colleges in India, including the National Institutes of Technology (NITs) and other government-funded institutions. If you do really well on JEE Main, you can then take JEE Advanced. JEE Advanced is the key to getting into the prestigious Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs).
What it tests: Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
Who should take it: Students interested in pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (B.Tech) or Architecture (B.Arch).
BITSAT
BITSAT is the Birla Institute of Technology and Science Admission Test. It’s for getting into the Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) campuses, which are known for their excellent engineering programs.
What it tests: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, English Proficiency, and Logical Reasoning.
Who should take it: Students aiming for BITS Pilani, BITS Goa, or BITS Hyderabad.
VITEEE
VITEEE stands for Vellore Institute of Technology Engineering Entrance Examination. This exam helps you get into VIT University, which has multiple campuses and a wide range of engineering programs.
What it tests: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics/Biology (depending on the program you choose), and English.
Who should take it: Students interested in studying engineering at VIT University.
Medical Exams
If you’re passionate about helping people and have a strong interest in science, a career in medicine might be right for you. Here’s a key medical entrance exam:
NEET
NEET stands for National Eligibility cum Entrance Test. It’s the single entrance exam for all medical and dental colleges in India. If you want to become a doctor (MBBS, BDS, or other medical fields), NEET is the exam you need to crack.
What it tests: Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (Botany and Zoology).
Who should take it: Students who want to pursue MBBS, BDS, AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy), and other related medical courses.
Law Exams
Do you enjoy arguing your point, understanding the legal system, and helping others navigate the law? Then, a career in law might be a good fit. Here’s a major law entrance exam:
CLAT
CLAT stands for Common Law Admission Test. It’s for getting into the top National Law Universities (NLUs) in India. If you dream of becoming a lawyer, judge, or legal expert, CLAT is an important exam.
What it tests: English Language, General Knowledge, Current Affairs, Legal Reasoning, and Logical Reasoning.
Who should take it: Students seeking admission to undergraduate (BA LLB) and postgraduate (LLM) law programs at NLUs.
Design Exams
Are you creative, artistic, and have an eye for detail? Design might be your calling. Here are some popular design entrance exams:
NIFT Entrance Exam
NIFT stands for National Institute of Fashion Technology. This exam is for getting into NIFT campuses across India, which offer various design courses related to fashion, textiles, and apparel.
What it tests: General Ability Test (GAT) and Creative Ability Test (CAT). The GAT tests your quantitative ability, communication ability, English comprehension, and general knowledge. The CAT tests your drawing skills, sense of color, and design aptitude.
Who should take it: Students interested in fashion design, textile design, accessory design, and other related fields.
NID DAT
NID DAT stands for National Institute of Design Design Aptitude Test. It’s for admission to the National Institute of Design (NID), which is a premier design institute in India.
What it tests: Design aptitude, creativity, and problem-solving skills. The exam usually involves a written test, studio test, and interview.
Who should take it: Students passionate about industrial design, communication design, textile and apparel design, and other design disciplines.
Other Important Exams
Besides the specific field-related exams, there are also some general entrance exams you might consider:
CUET
CUET stands for Common University Entrance Test. It’s a national-level entrance exam for admission to undergraduate programs in various central universities in India. This exam helps streamline the admission process and provides a common platform for students from different backgrounds.
What it tests: Varies depending on the course you are applying for, but generally includes language, domain-specific subjects, and general test.
Who should take it: Students seeking admission to undergraduate programs in central universities.
NDA
NDA stands for National Defence Academy. If you dream of serving your country and joining the armed forces, NDA is the exam to take. Passing this exam can lead to a career in the Army, Navy, or Air Force.
What it tests: Mathematics and General Ability Test (English, General Knowledge, Physics, Chemistry, History, Geography).
Who should take it: Students who aspire to join the Indian Armed Forces.
Preparing for Entrance Exams: Some Tips
Okay, now that you know about some of the top exams, here are a few tips to help you prepare:
- Start Early: Don’t wait until the last minute to start studying. Give yourself plenty of time to cover the syllabus.
- Understand the Syllabus: Know exactly what topics will be covered in the exam.
- Practice Regularly: Solve sample papers and mock tests to get familiar with the exam pattern and time management.
- Stay Focused: Avoid distractions and create a study schedule that works for you.
- Seek Guidance: Don’t hesitate to ask your teachers, mentors, or seniors for help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which exam is the hardest after 12th?
The “hardest” exam is subjective and depends on your strengths and interests. Generally, JEE Advanced and NEET are considered highly competitive due to the vast syllabus and large number of test-takers.
How many entrance exams should I take?
It depends on your career goals and the colleges you’re interested in. Taking multiple exams increases your chances of getting into a good college. Research the specific requirements of the institutions you’re targeting.
Can I crack these exams without coaching?
Yes, it’s definitely possible to crack these exams without coaching, especially with the availability of online resources and study materials. However, coaching can provide structured guidance and a competitive environment.
What if I don’t get into my dream college?
Don’t lose hope! There are many other good colleges and opportunities available. You can also consider taking a drop year to prepare better for the next attempt or explore alternative career paths.
Choosing the right career path and preparing for entrance exams is a big step. Remember to research your options, understand your interests, and work hard. Good luck!