So, you’ve finished or are about to finish your 12th grade! Congratulations! It’s a big achievement. Now comes the big question: What’s next? Figuring out what exams to take can feel a bit overwhelming, but don’t worry! This guide will walk you through some of the most common and important exams you can write after your 12th, depending on what you want to study.
Engineering Entrance Exams
If you dream of building bridges, designing robots, or creating the next big tech innovation, then engineering might be for you. Here are some key entrance exams:
JEE Main & JEE Advanced
These are probably the most well-known engineering entrance exams in India. JEE Main is the first step to getting into top engineering colleges like NITs, IIITs, and other government-funded institutions. If you do well in JEE Main, you get a chance to appear for JEE Advanced, which is the gateway to the prestigious IITs (Indian Institutes of Technology). Think of JEE Main as the qualifying round, and JEE Advanced as the championship!
State-Level Engineering Entrance Exams
Many states have their own engineering entrance exams for admissions into engineering colleges within the state. These can be a good option if you want to study in your home state or if you don’t get the score you wanted on JEE Main. Examples include MHT CET (Maharashtra), WBJEE (West Bengal), and KCET (Karnataka). Check your state’s education board website for more information.
BITSAT
BITSAT is the entrance exam for Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS), which has campuses in Pilani, Goa, and Hyderabad. BITS is known for its excellent engineering programs and innovative teaching methods.
Medical Entrance Exams
Do you want to be a doctor, a dentist, or work in healthcare? Then you’ll likely need to take a medical entrance exam.
NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test)
NEET is the single entrance exam for admission to MBBS, BDS, AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy), and other medical/dental courses in India. Almost all medical and dental colleges, both government and private, use NEET scores for admission. So, if you want to be a doctor, NEET is the exam you need to focus on.
Commerce & Management Entrance Exams
Interested in business, finance, or marketing? Then commerce or management studies might be a good fit. Here are some relevant exams:
CUET (Common University Entrance Test)
CUET is used for admission to various undergraduate programs, including commerce and management, offered by central universities across India. This exam is becoming increasingly important, so check if the university you’re interested in accepts CUET scores.
IPMAT (Integrated Programme in Management Aptitude Test)
IPMAT is for admission to the five-year integrated management programs offered by IIM Indore, IIM Rohtak, IIM Ranchi, IIM Bodh Gaya and IIM Jammu. These programs are great if you want to start your management studies right after your 12th.
NPAT (NMIMS Programs After Twelfth)
NPAT is conducted by NMIMS University for admission to various undergraduate programs like BBA, B.Com, and B.Sc. Economics offered at its campuses.
Law Entrance Exams
Do you enjoy debating, arguing your point, and understanding the legal system? Then a career in law might be calling your name!
CLAT (Common Law Admission Test)
CLAT is the entrance exam for admission to the National Law Universities (NLUs) in India. NLUs are considered some of the best law schools in the country. CLAT is highly competitive, so preparation is key.
AILET (All India Law Entrance Test)
AILET is conducted by National Law University, Delhi for admission to its BA LLB (Hons) program. While CLAT is for most NLUs, AILET is specifically for NLU Delhi.
LSAT—India
The Law School Admission Test (LSAT)—India is another option for getting into law schools in India. Several private law schools accept LSAT—India scores.
Design Entrance Exams
Are you creative, artistic, and have a passion for aesthetics? Then a career in design might be perfect for you!
NIFT Entrance Exam
The National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) conducts an entrance exam for admission to its various design programs, including fashion design, textile design, and accessory design. NIFT is a top design institute in India.
NID Entrance Exam (DAT)
The National Institute of Design (NID) conducts the Design Aptitude Test (DAT) for admission to its undergraduate design programs. NID is another prestigious design institute known for its rigorous curriculum.
UCEED (Undergraduate Common Entrance Examination for Design)
UCEED is for admission to the Bachelor of Design (B.Des) programs at IIT Bombay, IIT Delhi, IIT Guwahati, IIT Hyderabad and IIITDM Jabalpur. These IITs offer excellent design programs along with their engineering courses.
Other Important Exams
Besides the categories above, there are other exams you might want to consider:
NDA (National Defence Academy) Exam
If you dream of serving your country in the armed forces, then the NDA exam is for you. It’s conducted by UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) for admission to the National Defence Academy. After completing your training at NDA, you can join the Army, Navy, or Air Force.
CPT (Common Proficiency Test) – ICAI
This is the entry-level test for becoming a Chartered Accountant (CA) in India. It’s conducted by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI).
How to Prepare for These Exams
Okay, so now you know about a bunch of exams. But how do you actually prepare for them? Here are a few tips:
- Understand the Syllabus: The first step is to know what topics are covered in the exam. Download the official syllabus from the exam’s website.
- Create a Study Plan: Plan your study schedule realistically. Divide the topics based on their difficulty level and allocate time accordingly.
- Use the Right Resources: Choose the right textbooks, study materials, and online resources. Look for materials specifically designed for the exam you’re taking.
- Practice Regularly: Practice is key! Solve previous years’ question papers and take mock tests to get familiar with the exam pattern and time management.
- Stay Healthy: Don’t forget to take care of your physical and mental health. Get enough sleep, eat healthy food, and exercise regularly. A healthy body and mind will help you focus better.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I don’t get into the college I want?
It’s okay! Many students don’t get into their dream college on their first try. You can consider taking a drop year and preparing again, or explore other colleges and programs that might be a good fit. Don’t get discouraged; there are always options.
How do I choose the right exam for me?
Think about your interests, strengths, and career goals. What subjects do you enjoy studying? What kind of work do you see yourself doing in the future? Research different career paths and the exams required for them. Talk to your teachers, counselors, and family members for guidance.
Where can I find more information about these exams?
The best place to find accurate and up-to-date information is on the official websites of the exam conducting bodies. For example, for JEE Main and JEE Advanced, check the NTA (National Testing Agency) website. For NEET, check the NTA NEET website. For CLAT, check the Consortium of National Law Universities website.
Choosing the right exams after your 12th is a crucial step towards building your future. Take your time, do your research, and choose the path that aligns with your interests and goals. Good luck!