So, you’ve finished 12th grade with science! Congrats! Now you’re probably thinking, “What’s next?” A lot of cool and exciting paths are open to you, and many of them start with entrance exams. Think of these exams as your ticket to the college or program you’ve been dreaming about. Don’t worry, we’re here to break down all the major entrance exams you can take after 12th science and help you figure out which ones are right for you.
Medical Entrance Exams
If you’re passionate about helping people and see yourself as a doctor, dentist, or another healthcare professional, these exams are your first step:
NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test)
NEET is THE exam for anyone wanting to study MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery), BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery), or other related medical courses in India. It’s a national-level exam, meaning your score is valid for colleges all over the country. Get ready to study Biology, Chemistry, and Physics!
- What it’s for: MBBS, BDS, AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy) courses
- Who conducts it: National Testing Agency (NTA)
- Key Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Biology (Botany & Zoology)
AIIMS Entrance Exam (Now replaced by NEET)
Previously, the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) conducted its own entrance exam, which was considered quite challenging. However, now admission to AIIMS is also through NEET. So, focusing on NEET preparation is key!
Engineering Entrance Exams
If you love problem-solving, building things, and technology, engineering might be your calling. These exams will open doors to top engineering colleges:
JEE Main (Joint Entrance Examination Main)
JEE Main is the gateway to the National Institutes of Technology (NITs), Indian Institutes of Information Technology (IIITs), and other centrally funded technical institutions. It’s also a qualifying exam for JEE Advanced.
- What it’s for: BE/B.Tech, B.Arch, B.Planning courses
- Who conducts it: National Testing Agency (NTA)
- Key Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics
JEE Advanced (Joint Entrance Examination Advanced)
JEE Advanced is for those aiming for the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), the most prestigious engineering colleges in India. It’s a tougher exam than JEE Main and requires in-depth knowledge and problem-solving skills. You can only appear for JEE Advanced if you qualify JEE Main.
- What it’s for: Admission to IITs
- Who conducts it: One of the IITs each year on a rotational basis.
- Key Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics
State-Level Engineering Entrance Exams
Many states also have their own engineering entrance exams for admission to engineering colleges within that state. Some popular examples include:
- MHT CET (Maharashtra Common Entrance Test): For engineering and pharmacy colleges in Maharashtra.
- WBJEE (West Bengal Joint Entrance Examination): For engineering, pharmacy, and architecture colleges in West Bengal.
- KCET (Karnataka Common Entrance Test): For engineering, medical, and dental colleges in Karnataka.
Check the specific exam for your state if you are looking to study in local colleges.
Other Science-Related Entrance Exams
Science isn’t just about medicine and engineering! Here are some other interesting options:
NDA (National Defence Academy) Exam
If you dream of serving your country, the NDA exam is for you. It’s conducted by the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) and leads to admission into the Army, Navy, and Air Force wings of the NDA. A science background with Physics and Maths in 12th is usually preferred, especially for the Air Force and Naval Academy.
- What it’s for: Training to become an officer in the Indian Armed Forces
- Who conducts it: Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
- Key Subjects: Mathematics, General Ability Test (English, General Knowledge, Science)
IISER Aptitude Test (IAT)
For those passionate about pure sciences and research, the Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs) are excellent choices. Admission is through the IISER Aptitude Test (IAT).
- What it’s for: Admission to BS-MS dual degree programs at IISERs
- Who conducts it: The IISERs
- Key Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology
NEIST Entrance Exam
The North-East Institute of Science and Technology (NEIST), Jorhat conducts its own entrance exam for admission into various science courses. Those interested in specific research in the North-Eastern region can target this exam.
ICAR AIEEA (All India Entrance Examination for Admission)
If you are interested in agriculture and related sciences, the ICAR AIEEA is the entrance exam to take. It leads to admission in various agricultural universities across India.
- What it’s for: Admission to BSc (Agriculture), BSc (Horticulture), and other agricultural science courses.
- Who conducts it: National Testing Agency (NTA)
- Key Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Mathematics/Agriculture
General Entrance Exams (Open to All Streams)
Even with a science background, you can explore fields beyond science. Some general entrance exams you can consider include:
CLAT (Common Law Admission Test)
If law interests you, CLAT is the exam for admission to National Law Universities (NLUs) in India.
- What it’s for: Admission to undergraduate law programs (BA LLB, BBA LLB, etc.) at NLUs.
- Who conducts it: Consortium of National Law Universities
- Key Subjects: English Language, Current Affairs including General Knowledge, Legal Reasoning, Logical Reasoning, Quantitative Techniques
NIFT Entrance Exam
If you’re creative and have an eye for design, the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) entrance exam could be your path to a career in fashion.
- What it’s for: Admission to undergraduate design programs (B.Des) at NIFT
- Who conducts it: National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT)
- Key Subjects: Creative Ability Test (CAT), General Ability Test (GAT), Situation Test (for B.Des)
Hotel Management Entrance Exams
If you enjoy hospitality and managing events, consider Hotel Management. The National Council for Hotel Management and Catering Technology (NCHMCT) JEE is a common entrance exam for various hotel management institutes.
How to Choose the Right Entrance Exam
Choosing the right entrance exam can feel overwhelming, but here’s how to simplify the process:
- Identify Your Interests: What subjects do you enjoy? What kind of career do you envision for yourself?
- Research Career Options: Learn about different career paths related to science and see which ones appeal to you.
- Explore College Options: Look at colleges that offer the courses you’re interested in and find out which entrance exams they require.
- Consider Your Strengths and Weaknesses: Are you good at math? Do you enjoy biology? Choose exams that align with your strengths.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Try: You can appear for multiple entrance exams to keep your options open.
Tips for Preparing for Entrance Exams
- Start Early: Give yourself enough time to cover the syllabus and practice.
- Create a Study Plan: Organize your study schedule and stick to it.
- Use the Right Resources: Refer to textbooks, study guides, and online resources.
- Practice Regularly: Solve previous years’ question papers and mock tests.
- Stay Healthy: Get enough sleep, eat nutritious food, and exercise regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I don’t get a good score on an entrance exam?
Don’t worry! There are always other options. You can consider taking a drop year to prepare better, exploring alternative courses, or looking at colleges that have lower cutoffs. Remember that your worth isn’t defined by a single exam score.
Can I prepare for multiple entrance exams at the same time?
Yes, you can, but it requires careful planning and time management. Choose exams with overlapping syllabuses to make it easier.
Where can I find more information about specific entrance exams?
Visit the official websites of the conducting bodies for detailed information about the exam pattern, syllabus, eligibility criteria, and important dates.
Choosing the right path after 12th science is a big decision, but it’s also an exciting one. By understanding your options and preparing well for entrance exams, you can pave the way for a successful and fulfilling career. Good luck!