Do You Know How To Go For A Further Study and Preparation After School

Do you know what to do after school or college to secure your future? Every year, thousands of students in India and across the globe face one crucial question: What’s next after Class 10, 12, or graduation?

Whether you're aiming for competitive exams, skill-based certifications, or higher education abroad, proper planning and preparation can open doors to a world of opportunity. This article provides a complete roadmap for further study and preparation, tailored for Indian students but relevant globally.

1. Why Further Study Matters

Further studies aren’t just about collecting degrees. They're about:

• Building a career foundation

• Acquiring specialized knowledge

• Boosting employability

• Exploring new academic passions

It’s important to choose your path based on interest, aptitude, scope, and opportunities rather than peer pressure or trends.

2. After Class 10 – Your First Major Decision

After Class 10, you’ll usually choose among three streams:

a. Science

Ideal for students interested in engineering, medicine, research, IT, etc.

b. Commerce

Suits those interested in business, finance, economics, CA, or management.

c. Arts/Humanities

Perfect for students inclined toward social sciences, law, languages, journalism, etc.

Vocational and polytechnic courses are also available for hands-on skill development after Class 10.

3. After Class 12 – The Turning Point

This is where specialization begins. Based on your chosen stream, here are the main options:

a. For Science Students:

• Engineering – via JEE Main/Advanced, state CETs

• Medical – NEET, AIIMS, etc.

• B.Sc. Programs – in physics, chemistry, biology, IT

• BCA/Computer Science

• Defense Services – NDA

b. For Commerce Students:

• B.Com / BBA / BMS

• Chartered Accountancy (CA)

• Company Secretary (CS)

• Cost and Management Accountant (CMA)

• Banking and Finance Programs

c. For Arts Students:

• BA (Psychology, History, Sociology, Political Science, etc.)

• Mass Communication & Journalism

• Law (via CLAT)

• Hotel Management

• Fashion Designing / Fine Arts

4. Entrance Exams You Should Know

Depending on your goals, these exams are crucial:

Field Top Entrance Exams

Engineering JEE Main/Advanced, MHT-CET, VITEEE, BITSAT

Medical NEET, AIIMS, JIPMER

Management IPMAT, DU JAT, NPAT

Law CLAT, AILET

Design/Fashion NIFT, NID, UCEED

Government SSC, UPSC, NDA

5. Higher Studies After Graduation

If you’ve completed your undergraduate studies, you can pursue:

a. Postgraduate Degrees:

• MBA (Master of Business Administration)

• M-Tech / M.Sc / M.Com / MA

• LLM (for law graduates)

• M.Ed (for teaching careers)

b. Professional Certifications:

• Data Science / AI / Coding Bootcamps

• Digital Marketing

• Project Management (PMP, PRINCE2)

• Financial Analyst (CFA)

• Teaching Certification (TET, CTET, B.Ed)

c. Studying Abroad:

• GRE / GMAT / IELTS / TOEFL for the US, Canada, UK, etc.

• Many universities offer scholarships and flexible entry requirements.

6. Preparation Tips and Study Plan

Here's how to prepare effectively:

a. Know Your Exam

Understand the syllabus, pattern, and eligibility of your target exam.

b. Create a Study Schedule

Dedicate 4–6 hours daily, split into focused blocks.

c. Use Quality Resources

• NCERT books for basics

• Reference books like HC Verma, RS Aggarwal, Arihant

• Online platforms (Unacademy, BYJU’S, Khan Academy)

d. Mock Tests & Past Papers

Practice improves speed and accuracy. Use previous year papers and timed mock tests.

e. Join Coaching (if needed)

Offline or online coaching can provide structured learning, especially for JEE, NEET, UPSC, etc.

f. Stay Consistent & Motivated

Avoid burnout. Use mind maps, group studies, or meditation to stay fresh and focused.

7. Alternative and Skill-Based Options

a. Government & Public Sector Jobs:

• SSC (Staff Selection Commission)

• Banking (IBPS, SBI PO)

• Railway Exams (RRB NTPC)

• UPSC Civil Services

• Defense (Army, Navy, Airforce)

b. Private Sector & Startups:

• Campus placements

• Internship-to-job opportunities

• Freelance/remote work via platforms like Upwork, Fiverr

c. Entrepreneurial Path:

• Start your own venture, especially if you have a unique idea or service.

• Explore incubation centers or government schemes like Startup India.

8. Career Counselling and Tools

If you’re unsure, consult:

• Career counsellors

• Aptitude tests (like DMIT, MBTI)

• Psychometric assessments

These can help match your strengths with the right path.

Conclusion

Choosing your further study path is like laying the first bricks of your future. Whether it's preparing for IIT or NEET, doing a BA in Psychology, or aiming to study in the UK, every path has its merit — if it matches your passion, purpose, and effort.

Stay focused, stay curious, and never stop learning. The world belongs to those who prepare today for tomorrow.