Top Entrance Exams After 12th for Government and Private Jobs

Looking for the best Entrance Exams After 12th? Whether you dream of a secure government job or a high-paying private career, this article covers top exams for every stream—science, commerce, and arts. Explore exams based on your interest, salary expectations, and future growth.

Did you know? According to Education Ministry data (2024), over 1.65 crore Indian students appear for various Entrance Exams After 12th every year.
Yet, only about 15–20% crack the one they aim for.
Sounds scary? It’s not—if you have the right plan.

You might feel confused right now.
Science? Commerce? Arts?
Government job? Private sector?
Which exam to choose? What if you pick the wrong one?

Relax. Breathe.
You’re not alone in this.

I’ve seen my own younger cousin sweat bullets over JEE prep, only to find his real passion in NDA—and today, he’s proudly wearing the Indian Air Force uniform.
Sometimes, the journey you start isn’t the journey you finish. And that’s okay.

This article isn’t about throwing 100 exam names at you. It’s about helping you find your perfect path, based on your passion, strength, and future dreams.

We’ll look at exams based on your stream — Science, Commerce, or Arts. For each, we’ll cover career opportunities, salary expectations, and real-world tips.

If you have a science background, you have tons of options! From engineering to medicine to defense forces, the doors are wide open.

• JEE Main and Advanced (Engineering)
  For admission into IITs, NITs, and top engineering colleges.
  Salary Range: ₹6 LPA to ₹30 LPA (starting for IIT grads).
• NEET (Medical)
  For MBBS, BDS, and AYUSH courses across India.
  Salary Range: ₹5 LPA to ₹20 LPA for doctors.
• NDA (National Defence Academy)
  Dreaming of joining the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force? NDA is your golden ticket.
  Salary Range: ₹8 LPA to ₹25 LPA.
• BITSAT
  For admission into BITS Pilani and its campuses.
  Salary Range: ₹6 LPA to ₹20 LPA.

Indian Navy SSR/AA
Direct recruitment for sailors after 12th (science with maths and physics).
Salary Range: ₹5 LPA to ₹10 LPA.

If you love numbers, business, or finance, these exams can open up exciting opportunities.

• CA Foundation (Chartered Accountant)
  First step towards becoming a Chartered Accountant.
  Salary Range: ₹8 LPA to ₹50 LPA (after qualification).
• CUET (Common University Entrance Test)
  For admission into top universities like Delhi University, BHU, JNU, and more.
  Salary Range: Depends on course but opens doors to business, law, etc.
• IPMAT (IIM Indore, IIM Rohtak)
  Direct entry into five-year Integrated MBA programs.
  Salary Range: ₹12 LPA to ₹35 LPA.
• Company Secretary (CS Executive Entrance Test)
  If corporate law and governance attract you.
  Salary Range: ₹6 LPA to ₹25 LPA.
• SBI Clerk/IBPS Clerk
  For government banking jobs after 12th + graduation, but preparation starts early.
  Salary Range: ₹4 LPA to ₹7 LPA.

Think arts students have fewer options? Think again! Some of the most creative and rewarding careers start here.

• CUET (Humanities courses)
  Leading to careers in journalism, law, psychology, history, political science, etc.
  Salary Range: ₹4 LPA to ₹15 LPA.
• NIFT Entrance Exam
  For careers in fashion technology and design.
  Salary Range: ₹5 LPA to ₹20 LPA.
• NID DAT (Design Aptitude Test)
  For admission into top design institutes.
  Salary Range: ₹6 LPA to ₹25 LPA.
• CLAT (Law)
  For entry into top National Law Universities (NLUs).
  Salary Range: ₹6 LPA to ₹18 LPA.

SSC CHSL (Combined Higher Secondary Level)
Direct government jobs like Data Entry Operator, LDC, Postal Assistant.
Salary Range: ₹4 LPA to ₹8 LPA.

Stuck somewhere? It’s natural. Here’s a simple 3-step guide:

1. Identify your interest:
   Do you love machines, people, business, creativity, or numbers? Follow what excites you.
2. Consider stability vs growth:
   Government jobs offer security. Private sector offers higher pay and faster growth.
3. Look at the effort vs reward:
   Some exams like NEET or JEE require years of preparation. Others like SSC or banking exams are comparatively easier but still rewarding.

👉 Pro Tip: Always have a Plan B. Keep a backup exam in mind in case your first choice doesn’t work out.

Choosing the right Entrance Exams After 12th is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make. But here’s the truth—there is no single “perfect” exam. What matters most is choosing a path that aligns with your interests, strengths, and dreams.

Many toppers today started out confused and worried—just like you might feel right now. What set them apart? They took a step forward, even when the way was not fully clear.

So take your time, explore your options, and trust yourself. Your best career is waiting—you just have to reach out and grab it.

Loved this article? Tell us which exam you’re aiming for in the comments! 🌟 Also, check out our detailed articleon “Top Career Options After 12th” to plan your journey even better.