The right career path after completing a 12th science background opens various options for serving the nation. This is the chance for the students to earn prestigious careers in many fields like engineering, medical, defense, and civil services. Each of these tests has unique standards of eligibility and effective test preparation techniques.
Government exams for ‘science stream’ students can essentially be divided into two broad categories based on the subjects or fields that they target.
- Law: Those who want to make their career in Law must qualify for CLAT and LSAT for integrated BA.LLB 5-year and 3-year programs in both Indian universities and universities abroad.
- Other Government Exams: Candidates who are interested in other government exams such as UPSC-CSE, SSC, RBI Grade B, IBPS-PO, NDA & NA, and Combined Defense Services (CDS) etc.
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Government Competitive Exams: Highlights
Here are the highlights of the entrance exams after the 12th along with eligibility, and average salary.
| Sector | Government |
| Eligibility | 10+2 or equivalent 45%-55% or 7.5 GPA |
| Average Salary | INR 3-10 LPA |
| Entrance Exams | Central Exams: UPSC-CSE IAS, IPS, and IFS, SSC group B&C various ministries and departments. Defense Exams: NDA & NA, CDS Other Exams: RRB, ISRO, RBI Grade B, IBPS-PO |
Government Competitive Exams: Details, Eligibility, Salary, Job Opportunities
Here is the list of Government competitive exams after 12th.
| Exam | Eligibility | Average Starting Salary Approx. | Job Opportunities |
|---|---|---|---|
| UPSC NDA | 10+2 with Physics, Maths | INR 7-10 LPA | Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force |
| SSC CHSL | 10+2 from a recognized board | INR 3-6 LPA | Central Government Offices, Ministries |
| Indian Navy AA/SSR | 10+2 with Science | INR 4-8 LPA | Indian Navy, Naval Dockyards |
| Indian Army TES | 10+2 with Science | INR 5-9 LPA | Technical Branches in the Indian Army |
| Indian Air Force Group X & Y | 10+2 with Science | INR 4-8 LPA | Indian Air Force, Technical & Non-Technical Branches |
| Indian Coast Guard Navik GD | 10+2 with Science | INR 3-6 LPA | Indian Coast Guard |
| Indian Railways RRB | 10+2 with Science | INR 4-7 LPA | Indian Railways, Railway Recruitment Board |
Government Competitive Exams After 12th: UPSC-CSE
The Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and other examinations are conducted by the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission), while Indian citizens interested in central level positions are being recruited. Candidates have to clear two written exams followed by a face-to-face interview for a civil service post to be secured. Once having qualified the candidates are appointed to various sub-organizations and ministries such as the Indian Administrative Service, Indian Revenue Service, Indian Engineering Service and Indian Police Service.
Job Opportunities: Eligible aspirants have to serve in premier departments and ministries at the central level such as administration, revenue, engineering, and law enforcement sectors.
Average Salaries: Compensation for civil service positions depends on the particular job and degree of responsibility – an average of INR 7-15 LPA.
Government Competitive Exams After 12th: UPSC NDA & NA
The National Defence Academy & Naval Academy (NDA & NA) entrance examination, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), is one of the esteemed Government competitive tests available to students of diverse interests including 12th Science who are determined to join the military – the Army, Navy and Air Force. The exam is held twice in a year, each referred to as NDA I and NDA II.
Eligibility:
| Criteria | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Age | 17-20 years |
| Nationality | Citizen of India (Gorkha subjects of Nepal are also eligible) |
| Marital Status | Unmarried Male Candidates |
| Eligibility |
|
| Physical test |
|
Job Opportunities: Candidates who have succeeded can go on to make careers in military services with the honor of serving their native country in the Army, Navy and Air Force.
Average Salaries: The Defense services' salary scale alters in proportion to rank and responsibility, with entry-level positions earning INR 6-12 LPA.
Government Competitive Exams After 12th: SSC
SSC examinations are organized for the purpose of recruiting candidates for various posts in Group B and Group C positions under ministries and departments of the central government.
For students who have completed their 12th standard with science background and seeking government employment opportunities, important exams to consider include:
- SSC CHSL
- SSC Stenographer
- SSC GD
- SSC MTS
| SSC Posts | Eligibility Criteria | Exam | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lower Division Clerk (LDC) | 18-27 years 10+2 any stream Min aggregate- 50-60% | SSC CHSL | Rs. 19900-63200 |
| Junior Secretariat Assistant (JSA) | Rs. 19900-63200 | ||
| Postal Assistant (PA) | Rs. 25500-81100 | ||
| Sorting Assistant (SA) | Rs. 25500-81100 | ||
| Data Entry Operator (DEO) | Rs. 25500-81100 | ||
| Data Entry Operator (DEO)- Grade ‘A’ (CAG) | 18-27 years 10+2 PCM/PCMB Min aggregate-50-60% | Rs. 25500-81100 | |
| General Duty Constable (GD) | 18-23 years 10th/ 10+2 any stream | SSC GD Constable Exam | Rs. 21700-69100 |
| Stenographer (Grade C) | 18-30 years 10+2 any stream | SSC Stenographer Test | Rs. 9300-34800 |
| Stenographer (Grade D) | 18-27 years 10+2 any stream | Rs. 5200-20200 | |
| SSC Multi-Tasking Staff (MTS) | 18 - 25 years Minimum 10th pass or 10+2 | MTS | Rs. 18,000 - Rs. 56,900 |
Government Competitive Exams After 12th: Indian Air Force Group X & Y
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is an exciting career option for those who want to follow their dream of serving their country while exploring the realm of airborne vehicles. The Air Force provides two separate enlistment opportunities, namely Group X and Group Y with each group having its specialism. Here's a breakdown to help you decide if this is the right flight path for you:
| Factor | Group X | Group Y |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | Minimum 10+2 pass with Physics and Mathematics (or a vocational course in relevant technical field) and minimum 50% marks overall. Age limit: 17 - 21 years (as of date of enrollment). | Minimum 10+2 pass in any stream with minimum 50% marks overall. Age limit: 17 - 21 years (as of date of enrollment). |
| Job Opportunities | - Aircraft Technician - Electronics Technician - Mechanical Technician - Storekeeper - Parachutes Rigger - Meteorology Assistant | - Flight Operations Assistant - Inventory Management Assistant - Administrative Assistant - Security Assistant - Catering Assistant - Medical Assistant (Non-Technical) |
| Average Salary | INR 33,100 - INR.59,000 | INR 26,900 to INR 57,500 |
| Age Limit | 17 - 21 years (as of date of enrollment) | 17 - 21 years (as of date of enrollment) |
Check Indian Air Force (IAF) Coaching Institution 2024 with Fee Structure
Government Competitive Exams After 12th: Indian Army TES
TES (Technical Entry Scheme) is a national-level competitive exam organized by the Indian Army's technical division after 12th Science for students. The purpose of the entrance exam after 12th is to choose suitable candidates from the technical sector in the Indian Army where they will be given an engineering degree.This Government exam right after class 12 is conducted twice in a year.
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Technical Entry Scheme (TES) |
| Exam Body | Indian Army |
| Eligibility | Minimum 70% marks in Class 12 (PCM) or equivalent |
| Job Opportunities | Officer positions in Indian Army's technical branches (e.g., EME, Signals, CME) |
| Average Salary | ₹5 Lakhs - ₹7 Lakhs per Annum (LPA) (starting salary, varies with rank and experience) |
| Frequency | Twice a year |
| Age Limit | 16 ½ years - 19 ½ years (as of the first day of the month in which the course commences) |
Government Competitive Exams After 12th: Indian Coast Guard
The Ministry of Defence organizes Indian Coast Guard recruitment 2021 this year. This recruitment process mainly involves two pathways: Commissioning (officer entry) and enrollment (navik and yantrik). The recruitment of Assistant Commandant is limited to reserved categories whereas Navik and Yantrik recruitment is open to both general and reserved category candidates. The applicants can decide on joining via direct entry based on the age or academic qualifications and nationality. Entry in IPO as an officer will offer entry into GC(yantriks/ pilot/ navigator/ other technical branches.), while entry as a Navik/ Yantrik will provide entry into these offices as a navik (general duty/ domestic branch).
| Exam name | Indian Coast Guard Assistant Commandant/ Navik and Yantrik examination |
| Commonly known as | Indian Coast Guard exam |
| Educational Qualification | Passed Class 12th with Physics and Mathematics from any recognized board (minimum 55% marks in both subjects). |
| Age limit | 18 years - 25 years |
| Indian Coast Guard Posts | Assistant Commandant (General Duty/ Pilot/ Navigator/ Technical Branch) Navik (DB) Navik (GD) Yantrik (Electrical) Yantrik (Electronics) Yantrik (Mechanical) |
Government Competitive Exams After 12th: Indian Railways RRB
The Indian Railways is vital for the nation, and being appointed in this place is a dream for most. The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) makes an exam suitable for Students who have recently completed their 12th Science. Here's a breakdown to help you navigate these opportunities:
| Exam Name | Eligibility | Job Opportunities (Government Posts) |
|---|---|---|
| RRB Group D | Minimum 10th pass | Multi-tasking staff roles across various railway departments |
| RRB NTPC | Minimum 12th pass | Lower Division Clerk (LDC), Goods Guard, Assistant Pointsman, etc. |
| RRB ALP | Minimum 10th pass with Science & Maths, ITI Diploma (for Technician) | Assistant Loco Pilot, Technician roles in various railway departments |
Government Competitive Exams After 12th: FAQs
Ques. Can I pursue a Science background in government exams even if I'm interested in non-technical fields?
Ans. Yes,There are also many exams such as SSC CHSL and RRB that recruit candidates who can take up administrative roles, and a Science background is not required. You can try out the general aptitude sections of these tests.
Ques. I want to join the Defense Forces after 12th Science. Which exams should I target?
Ans. Exams like the National Defence Academy (NDA) & Naval Academy (NA) Examination, the Indian Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT), and the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination offer entry into the armed forces with a Science background.
Ques. Are there government jobs for Science students after 12th with a focus on research?
Ans. Yes, Organizations such as ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) and DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation) conduct recruitment exams for science graduates having research orientation.
Ques. I want to become a doctor but couldn't qualify for NEET. Are there other government healthcare options?
Ans. Yes, There are various jobs in government sector like Pharmacists, Lab Technicians and allied healthcare professionals after qualifying through Staff Selection Commission (SSC) or State Public Service Commission (PSC)exam.
Ques. I'm interested in a government job with Science but not engineering or medicine. What are my options?
Ans. Study entrance exams like ESIC AIEEA entrance tests for research in agriculture or ISRO jobs for astronautics role or Forest department exams for environment conservation.
Ques. What are the most popular government exams for Science students after 12th?
Ans. There are several popular options to what you like best. JEE Main & JEE Advanced is all about engineering field. NEET acts as the only bridge connecting students with medical colleges. For research-oriented careers, one can appear for exams including IISER or JEST. UPSC Civil Services provides the opportunity for several administrative personnel.
Ques. I have a disability. Are there any special provisions for Science students with disabilities in government exams?
Ans. Yes, almost all the government exams have special provisions such as scribes, extra time, or assistive devices for the PwD (Persons with Disability) candidates
Ques. How important is physical fitness for Science students targeting government jobs?
Ans. Several government posts are for Defence or Police which require physical fitness. Get started on the basic workouts early in order for you meet the requirements.
Ques. Can I prepare for multiple government exams simultaneously?
Ans. It's possible, but challenging. There may be a number of variations such as syllabus and examination design. To succeed in the process of writing exams, it's necessary to assess your load of the work and to plan well.
Ques. What are some government exam options for Science students interested in environmental science?
Ans. Exams provided by organizations such as the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) or state forest departments give Science students a chance to compete.



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