What to Study After 12th: The Best Decision

After the 12th grade, students must make the critical decision of selecting the appropriate course and career path. The options for what to study after 12th are numerous and frequently overwhelming, and making the right decision is critical because it will shape your future. Engineering, medicine, and other technical courses are excellent options for students who have excelled in science and mathematics. Law, humanities, economics, and management courses are ideal for those interested in social sciences. Students with an artistic bent should look into courses in design, fine arts, and architecture. Furthermore, for students with a strong interest in entrepreneurship, there are several courses in management, economics, and commerce that can help them better understand the business world.

When making a decision on what to study after 12th, it is critical to consider one’s interests, aptitude, and academic background. A thorough investigation and consultation with teachers, guidance counsellors, and professionals in the desired field can also assist in making an informed decision. In conclusion, deciding what to study after the 12th grade is a crucial phase that must be completed carefully after considering all relevant factors. Making the right decision can lead to a successful and rewarding career.

Choosing What to Study after 12th

Choosing what to study after 12th grade can be a challenging and confusing decision, but here are some steps that can help you make an informed decision:

1. Assess your interests and strengths: Before choosing what to study after 12th, consider what subjects you enjoy and are good at, and explore the careers associated with those subjects.
2. Research career options: Research different careers and the educational requirements for each. Look at job descriptions, salaries, and job outlooks to get a better understanding of what each career entails.
3. Consider your long-term goals: Think about where you see yourself in the future and weigh down your alternatives for what to study after 12th that aligns with your goals.
4. Talk to professionals in your field of interest: Speak with people who are already working in the field you’re interested in to get a firsthand understanding of what the job entails, what to study after 12th, and what skills are necessary to succeed.
5. Take aptitude tests: Aptitude tests can help you determine your interests, strengths, and weaknesses and guide you in choosing what to study after 12th and deciding which career path that is best for you.
6. Consider financial factors: Look into the cost of education and the earning potential for each career path to determine which option is most financially feasible for you.
7. Seek advice from trusted sources: Consult with your parents, teachers, career counsellors, or friends who have gone through a similar process to get a different perspective and more information on what to study after 12th.

Considering these factors, you can make a well-informed decision about what to study after 12th and choose a career path that is right for you.

Importance of College Education in India

In India, a college education is regarded as an important investment for both individuals and society as a whole. It provides individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary for successful careers, and it helps to build a knowledgeable and skilled workforce that can drive economic growth and development. There are several reasons why college education is valued in India:

1. Career Advancement: A college degree can open up new career opportunities and increase earning potential. Many well-paying jobs in India require a college education, and a degree can provide access to a wider range of job opportunities.
2. Personal Development: College education provides students with a unique opportunity to learn, grow, and develop as individuals. Students have access to a wide range of subjects and courses, and they can develop new skills and interests that will benefit them in their personal and professional lives.
3. Critical Thinking: Critical thinking and the development of analytical skills are encouraged in college education. This can assist students in making informed decisions, problem-solving, and creative problem-solving.
4. Social Networking: College provides a platform for students to network with other individuals, including peers, professors, and alumni. These relationships can be valuable for personal and professional development.
5. Knowledge and Expertise: Students receive specialized knowledge and expertise in their field of study as a result of their college education. This can enable them to pursue their interests and make a positive difference in their communities.

3 Popular Streams: Science, Commerce, Arts

Science, commerce, and arts are three popular streams of study that students can choose from while deciding what to study after 12th.

1. Science stream: Students who are interested in mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, and other natural sciences often choose the science stream. Students in this program typically go on to pursue careers in medicine, engineering, research and development, and technology.
2. Commerce stream: The commerce stream is designed for students who have a keen interest in business, economics, and finance. This stream is a good option for students who wish to pursue careers in fields such as accounting, finance, marketing, and management.
3. Arts stream: Students who have a passion for literature, history, geography, and other social sciences often choose the arts stream. This stream is ideal for students interested in careers in journalism, education, law, and the arts.

It is important to note that you can choose what to study after 12th in any stream that interests you, and the stream you choose does not limit your career options. The subjects studied in each stream provide a broad-based education and can be useful in a wide range of careers. All you need to do is be aware of the various course options and make an informed choice.

Top 5 Courses After PCM in 12th

Students who have taken up the science stream have several options to choose what to study after 12th. The most popular choices include engineering, medicine, and pure sciences like physics, chemistry, and mathematics. Take a look at the top 5 courses that you can consider while deciding what to study after 12th PCM:

1. Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech): B.Tech is an undergraduate engineering program that covers various aspects of engineering and technology. Engineering courses are highly sought after by students and offer a wide range of specializations like computer science, mechanical, electrical, civil, and many more. These courses offer ample opportunities to apply scientific and mathematical principles in real-world situations.
2. Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch): B.Arch is a 5-year undergraduate program in architecture with mathematics as a compulsory subject that covers various aspects of building design and construction. To pursue a B.Arch course in India, students need to appear for a national-level entrance examination such as the National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA) or Joint Entrance Examination (JEE).
3. Bachelor of Science (B.Sc): A three-year program in basic and applied sciences, including physics, chemistry, mathematics, and computer science. For students interested in pure sciences, courses like B.Sc in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics are available. These courses provide a strong foundation in these subjects and can lead to careers in research and development, as well as in academia.
4. Bachelor of Computer Application (BCA): If you are choosing what to study after 12th and looking for an undergraduate program in computer applications that covers various aspects of computer science and information technology, BCA is the right choice for you. After completing a BCA program, students can choose to pursue a Master of Computer Applications (MCA) program or go for jobs in the software industry or IT sector. Some of the popular job roles for BCA graduates include software developer, web developer, software tester, system administrator, database administrator, and network administrator. Read more about the top 10 computer courses in demand after the 12th.
5. Merchant Navy: The merchant navy is a branch of the maritime industry that involves the transportation of goods and people by sea. To join the merchant navy in India, students need to appear for an entrance examination, such as the All India Merchant Navy Entrance Test (AIMNET) or the Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test (IMU CET). If you are thinking about what to study after 12th and choose this course, it is important to note that a career in the merchant navy is physically and mentally demanding. Also, it requires individuals to spend long periods of time away from home.

Also, read about high-salary courses after 12th science PCM other than engineering.

Top 5 Courses After PCB in 12th

The study of life sciences and biology has become increasingly relevant in today’s world, given the rapid progress being made in fields such as biotechnology, medical research, and environmental science. For students wondering what to study after 12th, the options are numerous, ranging from medicine, dentistry, and nursing to pure sciences, environmental sciences, and interdisciplinary fields. Whether you’re interested in pursuing a career in research, development, or clinical practice, there’s a course out there that’s perfect for you. Let us explore what to study after 12th PCB for students looking to further their education:

1. Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS): In India, a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree is a highly sought-after undergraduate program that can be pursued after completing 12th standard with biology, physics, and chemistry as compulsory subjects. The MBBS program is a five-and-a-half-year program, including one year of internship. Admission to the MBBS program in India is highly competitive and based on merit, as determined by scores in national-level entrance examinations such as the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET). After completing an MBBS program, students can choose to specialize in a particular field of medicine, such as pediatrics, cardiology, neurology, or orthopedics, by pursuing a postgraduate program in the field of their choice.
2. Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS): BDS is an undergraduate program in dental surgery that covers various aspects of oral health and dentistry. The BDS program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of dental anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, pathology, and dental materials, as well as hands-on clinical training in various dental procedures.
3. Bachelor of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry (BVSc & AH): The BVSc & AH program is designed to give students a thorough understanding of veterinary science, animal physiology, anatomy, nutrition, and breeding, as well as hands-on clinical experience in a variety of veterinary procedures.
4. Bachelor of Science (B.Sc): The B.Sc program is a three-year program that provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals of science, including mathematics, physics, biology, etc.
5. Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm): Admission to the B.Pharm program is usually based on entrance exams such as the All India Common Entrance Test for Pharmacy (AICET) or through a merit-based system that takes into account the student’s performance in their 12th standard exams. The curriculum for the B.Pharm program includes subjects such as pharmaceutical chemistry, pharmacology, pharmacognosy, pharmacotherapeutics, and pharmaceutical biotechnology, among others.

Additionally, interdisciplinary courses like B.Sc in Biotechnology, B.Tech in Biomedical Engineering, and B.Sc in Agriculture are also becoming increasingly popular. These courses blend science and technology and offer students the opportunity to work in cutting-edge areas of science and technology.

Top 5 Courses After 12th Commerce

Commerce is a broad field with numerous course options to choose what to study after 12th. The Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) is most aspirants’ first choice for pursuing a commerce degree. It is crucial to research all of the available options for what to study after 12th grade. Take a look at the top five courses offered after the 12th grade that are the most popular among commerce students:

1. Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com): This is one of the most popular courses after the 12th of commerce in India. It is a 3-year undergraduate program that covers subjects such as accounting, finance, marketing, economics, etc. The eligibility criteria for B.Com is 10+2 from a recognized board with a minimum of 45% marks. Students with a B.Com degree can also choose to pursue higher education in commerce or related fields, such as an MBA or M.Com degree.
2. Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA): Another 3-year undergraduate program, BBA focuses on business management and administration. BBA requires a 10+2 diploma from a recognized board with a minimum of 50% marks. There are additional options for students who choose BBA, such as BBA LLB, which requires clearing the CLAT or LSAT exam in addition to the 12th exams.
3. Chartered Accountancy (CA): Offered by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), this is a professional course in finance and accounting that is highly sought after by commerce students. The course is divided into three levels: Common Proficiency Test (CPT), the Intermediate (Integrated Professional Competence) Course (IPCC), and the final stage which is the Chartered Accountancy Final Examination. After completing the CA course and fulfilling other eligibility criteria, individuals can practice as chartered accountants and offer services like auditing, taxation, financial management, and consultancy.
4. Company Secretary (CS): There are three levels to the course: Foundation Program, Executive Program, and Professional Program. Individuals who complete the CS course and meet other eligibility criteria can work as company secretaries, providing services such as corporate governance, compliance management, risk management, and secretarial practice. Company secretaries are also in charge of ensuring that a company’s legal and regulatory requirements are met.
5. Bachelor of Economics (B.A. Economics): This is a 3-year undergraduate program that focuses on the study of economics and its applications. The curriculum of the course includes various aspects of economics such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and economic history, among others. Students who complete a B.A. or B.Sc. in Economics degree have a strong foundation in the principles and theories of economics and are equipped with analytical and critical thinking skills that are highly valued by employers in the public and private sectors. Graduates of the program can pursue a variety of careers in fields such as banking, finance, marketing, consulting, research, and government.

Top 5 Courses After 12th Arts

The arts stream is also highly recommended for students deciding what to study after 12th. It is a stream that can help students to fulfil their creative endeavours while building a career out of it. Students most commonly opt for a BA degree after completing 12th grade with arts subjects. It is also seen that students from the commerce and science streams pursue an arts degree. Let us take a look at the top 5 answers to what to study after 12th arts:

1. Bachelor of Arts (BA): This is one of the most common answers to what to study after 12th arts in India. It is a 3-year undergraduate program that covers subjects such as history, economics, political science, sociology, psychology, etc. The program aims to provide students with a strong foundation in the arts and humanities and to equip them with the critical thinking and communication skills required for a variety of careers. After completing the BA degree, students can also choose to pursue higher education in a specific area of interest, such as an M.A. or PhD degree.
2. Bachelor of Mass Communication (BMC): This is another popular course after 12th arts in India, which focuses on the study of mass media, journalism, advertising, and public relations. A BMC degree opens doors for careers in fields such as journalism, advertising, public relations, film and video production, and multimedia, among others. Graduates can also choose to pursue higher education in mass communication or a related field, such as an M.A. or M.Sc. in Mass Communication.
3. Bachelor of Social Work (BSW): This is a 3-year undergraduate program that focuses on the study of social problems, their causes, and ways to solve them. Graduates of the BSW program can pursue a variety of careers in fields such as social work, community development, counselling, and human services, among others. 
4. Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA): This is a 4-year undergraduate program that focuses on the study of visual and performing arts. After completing this program, you can plan a career in fields such as fine arts, graphic design, illustration, animation, and multimedia, among others, or opt for higher education.
5. Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Legislative Law (BA-LLB): BA LLB (Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Laws) is an integrated five-year undergraduate degree program in India for students who have completed their 12th standard in any stream. The curriculum of the program covers various aspects of arts and laws, including political science, sociology, economics, and legal theory, among others that equips students with the skills required for careers in the legal profession. Further, there is a scope to pursue higher education in law or a related field, such as an LLM or a PhD in Law.

These are some of the highly sought-after courses after 12th science, commerce, and arts in India. However, the eligibility criteria for these courses may vary from institution to institution, so it is recommended to check with the respective institutions for the latest eligibility criteria.

Here is a comparative table with the most popular program to study after 12th with eligibility criteria and top institutes:

Kalvium: Top Trending Program After 12th

Now that we have discussed the various course options to answer what to study after 12th, we must not miss the opportunity to discuss the top trending program after 12th i.e. Kalvium’s computer science engineering. The question here is who is Kalvium and why should you prefer it over the traditional B.Tech degree. Well, you will find your answers in the following discussion:

Kalvium offers India’s 1st liberal engineering program in computer science. Courses at Kalvium are curated to help you build on your skills and include a wider range of courses to explore compared to the regular B.Tech degree. At Kalvium, you will not be stuck in the traditional classroom following the “chalk & talk” method. It will be all about studying the liberal arts essentials relevant to today’s tech industry combined with hands-on experience.

To get a clearer insight, let’s see why the answer to what to study after 12th is Kalvium’s computer science engineering:

• Hands-on experience: At Kalvium’s computer science engineering program you will be equipped with the necessary practical knowledge through hands-on training experience.
• Industry relevance: One of the most essential elements of Kalvium is that the curriculum is designed by industry CXOs and includes 1:1 industry mentoring as well as mandatory work integration.
• Well-planned curriculum: The curriculum is not just designed to give you hands-on experience but will also support your interests in the subject through various Hackathons, competitive coding, and more.
• Placement guarantee: You will be guaranteed placements at the end of your 1st year in Kalvium computer science engineering. Going forward, you will get a minimum stipend of INR 15,000 per month through the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th years of your program.

Read more about India’s 1st liberal engineering program in computer science.

The Cut-throat Competition of College Admissions

College entrance exams in India are highly competitive and often considered to be the gateway to some of the top colleges and universities in the country. The competition for admission into premier colleges like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), National Institutes of Technology (NITs), Indian Institute of Management (IIMs), and other top-ranked colleges is intense, and students often have to perform exceptionally well in entrance exams to secure a spot. Let us glance through a few top entrance exams for college admission as it definitely affects the choice of what to study after 12th:

• The Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) is one of the most competitive exams in India, and millions of students appear for it every year with the hope of securing admission into one of the IITs.
• Similarly, the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) is another competitive exam for students aspiring to study medicine in India. In 2022, as many as over 18 lakh students registered for NEET setting the record for the highest number of applications ever.
• Apart from these, there are many other entrance exams that students have to appear for to secure admission into colleges and universities across the country, including the Common Admission Test (CAT) for management courses, the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) for engineering and technology courses, and the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) for law courses.

The competition in these entrance exams is fierce, and students often have to devote several years of their lives to prepare for them. With a large number of students competing for limited seats, the entrance exams in India are known to be one of the most challenging and competitive in the world. You must not forget to consider the rigour of entrance exams and the previous year’s cut-off scores before choosing what to study after 12th.

The Dynamic College Life

College life can also be competitive, as students strive to maintain high grades, participate in extracurricular activities, and build their resumes to increase their chances of getting into a good job or higher education program after graduation. The pressure to perform can be intense, and students may feel like they are constantly competing with their peers for grades, recognition, and opportunities. Despite the challenges, many students in India see competition as a motivator and an opportunity to prove themselves and achieve their goals. College life in India can be an exciting and transformative experience for students, let’s see how:

• Course structure: In terms of academics, college students in India typically take a mix of core courses in their major and elective courses in subjects that interest them. Classes are often lecture-based and students are expected to keep up with reading assignments and participate in class discussions. Assessments can include exams, assignments, and projects.
• Campus life: Colleges in India often have vibrant student cultures, with a variety of clubs, organizations, and events for students to get involved in. These can range from academic clubs and societies to sports teams and cultural organizations.
• Social life: You will have the opportunity to make new friends and form lasting relationships with your peers. There are also many opportunities to attend events and participate in activities, fests, and seminars outside of campus, such as visiting local attractions, exploring the city, and participating in local festivals and events.

Overall, college life in India can be an exciting and fulfilling experience that provides students with opportunities for growth, both academically and personally. You must consider the campus life and facilities available before choosing what to study after 12th. However, it should not be the only factor you base your decision upon. While it can be challenging at times, the support of friends and peers, as well as the resources available on campus, can help students navigate the college experience and achieve their goals.

Explore the campus life at Kalvium.

Exploring Alternative Pathways for Post-12th Success

You must never be persuaded to skip college and pursue other non-college options while in high school. But in reality, in addition to pursuing a college degree, there are many other options available to students in India after the 12th. Here are some alternatives to consider:

1. Vocational courses: Vocational courses are short-term training programs that provide practical, job-oriented education. These courses are designed to help students acquire specific skills and knowledge in a particular field and can lead to immediate employment opportunities. Some of the popular vocational courses in India are accounting, animation, foreign language, ethical hacking, data science and analytics, retail management, hospitality and tourism, banking, and software development among others.
2. Apprenticeships: An apprenticeship is a combination of on-the-job training and related classroom instruction in which workers learn the practical and theoretical aspects of a highly skilled occupation. Students who have not decided what to study after 12th can go for apprenticeships which are a great way to get hands-on experience and learn the skills necessary to succeed in a particular field.
3. Entrepreneurship: If you have a passion for innovation and a desire to be your own boss, you can consider starting your own business. There are many resources available to help you start and grow your own business, including incubators, accelerators, and government-run entrepreneurship programs.
4. Online courses: With the growth of the internet, there are now many online courses available that provide education and training in a variety of fields. These courses can be taken from the comfort of your home and can be a flexible and cost-effective way to acquire new skills and knowledge. If you have not decided what to study after 12th, you can always opt for one of the trending online courses including digital marketing, ethical hacking, programming, app development, multimedia design, graphic designing, etc.
5. Certificate programs: Certificate programs are short-term, focused programs that provide specialized knowledge in a specific field. These programs can be completed in a relatively short amount of time and can help you gain new skills and knowledge that can be applied to a variety of careers. If you are thinking about what to study after 12th, you can enrol in one of many certificate programs such as web designing, tally, photography, interior design, etc.
6. Work-based learning: Work-based learning programs provide hands-on experience and workplace exposure. Internships, co-op programs, and on-the-job training are examples of programs that can provide valuable experience and help you build a network of contacts in your field.
7. Travel and gap year: If you’re not sure what you want to study or do after 12th, taking a gap year to travel, volunteer or work can help you gain new perspectives and experiences, and help you make a more informed decision about your future.

Students who have completed their 12th grade with a science, commerce, or arts stream have a variety of options to choose what to study after 12th based on their interests and career goals. In today’s competitive sphere, it is critical to keep your knowledge and skills up to date as technology evolves. No matter which option you choose, it’s important to keep learning and staying curious. This will help you grow and succeed in your chosen career path.

What’s the Verdict?

Choosing what to study after 12th can be a crucial decision that will shape your career and life trajectory. It’s important to weigh your interests, strengths, and career goals when making this decision. There are several options available after 12th, such as pursuing undergraduate degrees in various fields like engineering, medicine, law, business, arts, science, and humanities. Depending on one’s career goals and interests, one can also pursue diploma or certificate courses, vocational courses, or join vocational training programs.

If you are unsure about what to study after 12th, you can consider taking career counselling, aptitude tests, or researching various career options to make an informed decision that aligns with your personal aspirations. It is also important to consider the job market demand and prospects for your chosen field and to keep an eye on emerging and evolving career trends.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Which study is best after 12th?

There are several popular and in-demand fields to consider for what to study after 12th grade. Engineering, medicine, law, business, arts, science, and humanities are among them. To gain clarity on one’s strengths and career goals, one can also consider taking career counselling or aptitude tests. Additionally, researching the job market prospects and trends for the chosen field can be helpful in making an informed decision.

• Which course is best for the future?

Courses related to technology, such as computer science, data science, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cybersecurity, are courses that are likely to have good job prospects in the future. Other fields, such as healthcare, business and finance, renewable energy, and environmental studies, are expected to grow and offer long-term career opportunities as well.

• Which is the easiest study after 12th?

It is difficult to say which study is the easiest after 12th grade because the level of difficulty varies depending on the individual’s strengths and interests. Neverhteless, certain diploma or certificate courses, vocational training programs, or degree courses in fields such as arts, commerce, or humanities may be easier for some students than others. It is critical to remember that even if a course is deemed “easier,” it still necessitates hard work, dedication, and effort in order to excel and achieve success in the chosen field.

• Which job has the highest salary after 12th?

Without a college degree, there are some vocational training programs and certification courses that can lead to well-paying jobs. Commercial pilots, web developers, digital marketers, real estate brokers, and graphic designers are examples of such jobs. Furthermore, some trades, such as plumbing, electrical work, and HVAC technicians, can provide lucrative pay and career advancement opportunities. It’s important to remember that pay and job opportunities can vary depending on location and demand for the specific field.