Hi guys, have you just passed 12th and wondering what next? Don’t worry! There are a lot of Competitive Exams in India after 12th that can turn your dreams into reality. Whether you want to become an engineer, doctor, lawyer, or join the defense, choosing the right exam is your first step. In this blog, I will tell you about the top competitive exams in India that will give a new direction to your career. So, ready? Let’s get started!
Why are competitive exams important?
Competitive exams after 12th are your gateway to top colleges and career options. These exams not only test your skills but also help you get admission in the best institutes in India. But choosing the right exam from so many options can be a bit difficult. Don’t worry, I have gathered all the information for you in easy language.
List of Top Competitive Exams in India after 12th
Here are some of the top exams that can boost your career after 12th. I have divided them according to different streams (Science, Commerce, Arts) so that you can understand them according to your choice.
1. Engineering Entrance Exams
If you want to make a career in engineering, then these exams are for you:
- JEE Main and JEE Advanced: JEE Main (NTA’s official website) is the most popular engineering exam that provides admission to NITs, IIITs and other top institutes. The top 2.5 lakh candidates can appear for JEE Advanced, which opens the way for admission to IITs. This exam is based on Physics, Chemistry, and Maths.
- BITSAT: For admission to BITS Pilani, Goa, and Hyderabad, one has to take BITSAT. It tests Maths, Physics, Chemistry as well as English and Logical Reasoning.
- VITEEE: VITEEE is a great option for Vellore Institute of Technology. This exam is for PCM/PCB students and it is necessary to pass 12th with 60% marks.
2. Medical Entrance Exams
Dreaming of becoming a doctor? Then these exams are for you:
- NEET: NEET is the only medical entrance exam in India, which provides admission in MBBS, BDS, and AYUSH courses. In this, 180 questions of Physics, Chemistry, and Biology have to be solved in 3 hours.
- AIIMS MBBS: Earlier AIIMS used to have a separate exam, but now it is also done through NEET. High rank is necessary for admission in top medical colleges.
3. Law Entrance Exams
If you want to become a lawyer, then try these exams:
- CLAT: CLAT provides admission in BA LLB and other law programs in 22 National Law Universities. It consists of English, General Knowledge, Legal Aptitude, and Logical Reasoning Test.
- AILET: AILET is required for NLU Delhi. It is different from CLAT and is quite competitive.
4. Defence and Maritime
Want to serve the country? Then check out these options:
- NDA: NDA exam is the way to join Army, Navy, or Air Force. It consists of Maths and General Ability Test followed by SSB Interview.
- IMU CET: You can take IMU CET for admission in Indian Maritime University.
5. Design and Fashion
If you want to go into a creative field:
- NIFT Entrance Exam: NIFT is for fashion and design courses. It consists of Creativity and General Knowledge Test.
- UCEED: UCEED is required for Bachelor of Design in IITs.
6. For Commerce and Arts students
- CA Foundation: CA Foundation is the first step to become a Chartered Accountant. This is a great option for commerce students.
- CUET: CUET is for BA, BCom, and other courses in Central Universities.
Quick Overview of Top Exams
| Exam | Key details |
|---|---|
| JEE Main | Admission to NITs, IIITs; Physics, Chemistry, Maths; held in January/April. |
| NEET | For MBBS, BDS; Physics, Chemistry, Biology; held in May. |
| CLAT | Law courses in NLUs; English, GK, Legal Aptitude; in December. |
| NDA | Army, Navy, Air Force; Maths, GAT, SSB; in April/September. |
| NIFT | Fashion Design; Creative Test; in January. |
How to choose the right exam?
- Check your stream: Choose the exam based on Science (PCM/PCB), Commerce, or Arts.
- Career goals: NEET if you want to become a doctor, JEE for engineering, CLAT for law.
- Preparation time: Some exams (like JEE, NEET) require 1-2 years of preparation. Plan now!
- Eligibility: Check the minimum marks and subject requirements of each exam.
Preparation tips
- Understand the syllabus: NCERT books are best for the basics.
- Time management: Study for 4-6 hours daily, but take breaks.
- Mock tests: Solve practice papers from platforms like Jagran Josh.
- Current affairs: Read news daily for CLAT and NDA.
- Health: A good diet and 6-8 hours of sleep are essential.
Why should you not be afraid of failure?
Many students fail in the first attempt. But this is not the end! Every year lakhs of students try again and get success. Just learn from your mistakes and work hard again.
FAQs
Which is the easiest competitive exam after 12th?
Exams like SSC CHSL and RRB Group D are considered easy, but preparation is important.
Can I prepare for multiple exams simultaneously?
Yes, if the syllabus overlaps (like JEE and BITSAT), you can prepare for multiple exams.
How to prepare for NEET and JEE simultaneously?
Focus on NCERT, study common subjects for Physics and Chemistry, and make a separate time slot for Maths/Biology.
Can commerce students appear for CLAT?
Yes, there is no stream restriction for CLAT. You just need 45% marks in 12th.
Should I join coaching?
If you are self-disciplined, you can study through online resources as well. But coaching gives structured guidance.
So guys, now is the time to make your dreams come true. Choose the right exam, work hard, and take your career to new heights. If you have any questions, ask in the comments!
