So, you’ve finished your 12th grade with a science background? Awesome! That means you’ve got a ton of exciting options ahead of you. But with so many choices, it can feel a little overwhelming. Don’t worry, we’re here to break down the major science exams you can take after 12th grade and what kind of cool careers they can lead to.
Medical and Dental Fields
If you’re dreaming of becoming a doctor, dentist, or working in healthcare, these exams are your first step.
NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test)
NEET is the big one! It’s the entrance exam for almost all medical and dental colleges in India, both government and private. If you want to be an MBBS doctor, a dentist (BDS), or study alternative medicine like Ayurveda (BAMS), Homeopathy (BHMS), or Unani (BUMS), NEET is the exam you need to ace.
- What it tests: Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (Botany and Zoology) based on the 11th and 12th grade syllabus.
- Careers: MBBS Doctor, Dentist, Ayurvedic Doctor, Homeopathic Doctor, Veterinary Doctor (through a separate process using NEET scores in some states).
- Important Tip: NEET is highly competitive, so start preparing early!
AIIMS Entrance Exam (Now replaced by NEET)
Previously, the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) held its own entrance exam. Now, admission to AIIMS colleges is also through NEET. While it’s no longer a separate exam, AIIMS colleges are highly sought-after, so you’ll need a very good NEET score.
Engineering Fields
If you love problem-solving, building things, and working with technology, engineering might be your calling.
JEE Main (Joint Entrance Examination Main)
JEE Main is your gateway to the National Institutes of Technology (NITs), Indian Institutes of Information Technology (IIITs), and other government-funded engineering colleges. It’s also the qualifying exam for JEE Advanced.
- What it tests: Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics based on the 11th and 12th grade syllabus.
- Careers: Computer Science Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, Civil Engineer, Electrical Engineer, Chemical Engineer, and many more.
- Important Tip: JEE Main has two sessions, so you can try to improve your score if you don’t do as well in the first attempt.
JEE Advanced (Joint Entrance Examination Advanced)
JEE Advanced is for those aiming for the prestigious Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). It’s a tougher exam than JEE Main and requires a deeper understanding of the concepts.
- What it tests: Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics at a more advanced level than JEE Main.
- Careers: Similar to JEE Main, but often leading to research-oriented roles and specialized engineering fields within IITs.
- Important Tip: You need to qualify in JEE Main to be eligible for JEE Advanced.
Other Engineering Entrance Exams
Many states and private universities have their own engineering entrance exams. Examples include:
- VITEEE (Vellore Institute of Technology Engineering Entrance Exam): For admission to VIT campuses.
- SRMJEEE (SRM Joint Engineering Entrance Examination): For admission to SRM University campuses.
- State-Level Entrance Exams: Many states have their own CET (Common Entrance Test) for engineering admissions within the state.
Other Science-Related Fields
Science isn’t just about medicine and engineering! There are plenty of other fascinating fields to explore.
National Defence Academy (NDA) Exam
If you’re passionate about serving your country, the NDA exam is a great option. It leads to a career in the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force.
- What it tests: Mathematics, General Ability (English, General Knowledge, Physics, Chemistry, General Science, History, Geography).
- Careers: Officer in the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force.
- Important Tip: There are physical and medical standards you need to meet to qualify for the NDA.
Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) AIEEA
For those interested in agriculture and related fields, the ICAR AIEEA exam is the way to go. It offers admissions to various agricultural universities across India.
- What it tests: Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Agriculture/Mathematics.
- Careers: Agricultural Scientist, Horticulturist, Dairy Technologist, Food Technologist, and many more in the agricultural sector.
National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA)
If you have a knack for design and a love for buildings, architecture could be a great fit. NATA is a national-level aptitude test for admission to architecture programs.
- What it tests: Drawing, observation skills, sense of proportion, aesthetic sensitivity and critical thinking.
- Careers: Architect, Urban Planner, Landscape Architect.
IISER Aptitude Test (IAT)
The IISER Aptitude Test is for admission to the Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs). These institutes focus on basic sciences and research.
- What it tests: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology.
- Careers: Research Scientist, Professor, working in various scientific fields.
What If You Don’t Want to Take an Entrance Exam?
It’s perfectly okay if you don’t want to take a competitive entrance exam! Many universities offer direct admission based on your 12th-grade marks. You can pursue a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree in various subjects like:
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Biology (Botany, Zoology)
- Biotechnology
- Computer Science
- And many more!
These degrees can open doors to careers in research, teaching, industry, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which exam is the hardest?
Difficulty is subjective, but generally, JEE Advanced is considered one of the toughest entrance exams in India due to its advanced-level questions and high competition. NEET is also highly competitive due to the large number of students appearing for it.
Can I prepare for NEET and JEE together?
While the syllabus overlaps, the focus and question types are different. Preparing for both simultaneously is possible, but it requires a very structured approach and a lot of hard work. It’s best to choose the field you’re most passionate about and focus your energy on that.
What if I don’t get a good score on any of these exams?
Don’t lose hope! There are always other options. You can consider taking a drop year to prepare again, explore different career paths, or pursue a B.Sc. degree and build your career from there.
How early should I start preparing for these exams?
Ideally, you should start preparing from the beginning of your 11th grade. This gives you enough time to cover the syllabus thoroughly and practice regularly.
Choosing a career path after 12th science can be a bit confusing, but hopefully, this guide has given you a clearer picture of the different exams you can take and the exciting opportunities they offer. Remember to choose a field that you’re truly passionate about, work hard, and never give up on your dreams!