Top 15 Entrance Exams After 12th Science in India

Introduction

After completing 12th science, the biggest question students face is – what next? Choosing the right entrance exam can shape your future career. Whether you’re aiming for engineering, medical, research, or defense, there’s a path for everyone.

In this guide, we’ll explore the top entrance exams for science students after 12th in India. We’ll cover eligibility, exam details, top colleges, and tips to help you decide.

Why Entrance Exams Matter After 12th Science

Entrance exams open doors to top colleges and courses
They test your subject knowledge, problem-solving, and aptitude
Performing well gives you an edge in competitive career fields

Whether you’re from PCM, PCB, or PCMB background, there are many career opportunities through these exams.

Top Entrance Exams for Science Students [2025]

Engineering Entrance Exams

1. JEE Main & JEE Advanced

For admission into NITs, IITs, and top engineering colleges
Subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Maths (PCM)

2. BITSAT

For BITS Pilani and other BITS campuses
Online test with higher-level questions than JEE Main

3. VITEEE

VIT University’s own entrance exam
Focused on PCM subjects, online format

4. SRMJEEE

For SRM Institute of Science and Technology
Moderate-level test with PCM focus

5. WBJEE, MHT CET, KCET, COMEDK

State-level engineering entrance exams
Accepted by regional colleges across India

Medical & Paramedical Entrance Exams

6. NEET UG

National-level exam for MBBS, BDS, AYUSH, and Nursing
Compulsory for all medical admissions in India

7. AIIMS Paramedical

Conducted by AIIMS for B.Sc. paramedical courses
Separate from NEET UG

8. CUET for B.Sc. (Life Sciences/Biotech)

Central Universities Common Entrance Test
Ideal for students interested in Biology-based degrees

Pure Sciences & Research

9. IISER Aptitude Test

For Integrated BS-MS programs at IISERs
Open to students with a strong interest in research

10. NEST

For NISER and UM-DAE CBS
Focus on Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Math

11. CUET UG

For B.Sc. programs in central universities like DU, BHU, JNU
Combines aptitude with subject knowledge

Design, Defense & Other Fields

12. NDA Exam

For joining Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force
Requires PCM for Air Force/Navy

13. UCEED

Undergraduate Common Entrance Exam for Design
Conducted by IIT Bombay

14. IIHM eCHAT

For hotel management courses
Online test plus group discussion and interview

15. ICAR AIEEA UG

For agriculture, horticulture, and allied sciences
Conducted by NTA

Comparison Table – Entrance Exams Overview

Exam Name	Field	Eligibility	Top Colleges
JEE Main	Engineering	10+2 PCM	NITs, IIITs
NEET UG	Medical	10+2 PCB	AIIMS, Govt Medical Colleges
IISER Aptitude	Research	10+2 PCM/PCB	IISERs
NDA	Defense	10+2 PCM	NDA, Indian Military Academy
CUET UG	Sciences	10+2 (any stream)	DU, BHU, JNU

Tips to Choose the Right Exam for You

Know your interest: Are you into engineering, medicine, or pure sciences?
Check subjects required: PCM for engineering/NDA, PCB for medical, PCMB for flexibility
Research top colleges: Look at placement stats, facilities, and rankings
Think long-term: What careers are in demand? What are the salary trends?

FAQ – Students Also Ask

Q1: Which entrance exam is best after 12th science?

JEE and NEET are most popular, but options like IISER, NDA, and CUET are also excellent.

Q2: Can I give both JEE and NEET?

Yes, if you’ve studied PCMB, you can appear for both exams.

Q3: What if I don’t clear JEE or NEET?

No worries! Explore CUET, state-level exams, paramedical, and research fields.

Q4: Which exam is best for BSc?

CUET UG is the standard test for admission to BSc programs in central universities.

Q5: How do I prepare for multiple entrance exams together?

Focus on NCERT textbooks and strengthen your basics in Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Math.

Final Thoughts

You’ve worked hard in 12th, and now it’s time to make a smart choice. Every entrance exam listed here can take you toward a promising future—whether you dream of being an engineer, doctor, scientist, designer, or defense officer.

Start preparing early, stay focused, and don’t be afraid to explore alternative options beyond the usual paths.

Top 15 Entrance Exams After 12th Science in India [2025 Guide]

Introduction

Why Entrance Exams Matter After 12th Science