The Best Career Options After 12th (All Streams Explained with Salaries)

Choosing a career after 12th can feel confusing, right? You’ve just finished school, and suddenly everyone starts asking — “What’s next?” Some members of your friend circle have clear goals. If you’re having trouble deciding, it’s not a problem. Many others are in the same situation.

Back when I finished my 12th, I was in the same boat — overwhelmed by choices, confused by advice, and unsure of what suited me best. That’s why I’ve created this simple guide to help you understand the best career options after the 12th — whether you're from Science, Commerce, or Arts.

And yes, I’ve also added average salary ranges so you know what to expect in the future.

Let’s get started!

Career Options After 12th – Science Stream (PCM & PCB)

1. Engineering (B.Tech/B.E.)

Many undergraduate students focus on Computer Science, Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, AI & Data Science.

• Course Duration: 4 years.
• Average Salary: ₹3 LPA and ₹12 LPA (based on the branch and college you choose)

If you are good at solving problems and like to build or repair things, engineering could suit you. IITs, NITs, private schools such as VIT and BITS are known for offering Computer Science courses.

2. Medical (MBBS/BDS/BAMS/BHMS/Nursing)

• Course Duration: 4.5 to 6 years
• Average Salary: ₹5 LPA to ₹20+ LPA (after specialisation)

Among students who study PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology), medicine is seen as the field of greatest respect and importance. It is possible to become a doctor, dentist, Ayurvedic practitioner or nurse.

Although it requires effort and time, assisting people brings a joy that is unmatched satisfaction

3. Pharmacy (B.Pharm)

Course Duration: 4 years

Average Salary: ₹3 LPA to ₹6 LPA

Pharmacy is great for those interested in medicines and healthcare but not keen on becoming a doctor. You can work in hospitals, pharma companies, or even start your own chemist shop.

4. Pure Science (B.Sc. in Physics/Chemistry/Biology/Maths)

• Course Duration: 3 years
• Average Salary: ₹2.5 LPA to ₹7 LPA (can increase after M.Sc./research)

If you love research or teaching, this is for you. Many students also prepare for exams like CSIR-NET or UPSC after their B.Sc.

5. IT & Computer Applications (BCA)

• Course Duration: 3 years
• Average Salary: ₹3 LPA to ₹8 LPA

If coding and tech excite you, go for BCA. Later, you can pursue MCA or even get jobs in software companies.

Career Options After 12th – Commerce Stream

1.Chartered Accountancy (CA)

• Course Duration: 4 to 5 years (with exams & articleship)
• Average Salary: ₹7 LPA to ₹25+ LPA

CA is a professional course with great scope in finance and accounting. It's tough but worth it. CAs work in firms, MNCs, or start their own practice.

2. B.Com / B.Com (Hons.)

• Course Duration: 3 years
• Average Salary: ₹2.5 LPA to ₹6 LPA (can go up with MBA or other qualifications)

This is a solid foundation for careers in finance, banking, taxation, and auditing. You can also prepare for competitive exams like UPSC, SSC, or bank PO along with your degree.

3. Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)

• Course Duration: 3 years
• Average Salary: ₹3 LPA to ₹7 LPA (more after MBA)

Ideal for those who want to enter the world of management. After BBA, many students go for an MBA to boost their career.

4. Company Secretary (CS)

• Course Duration: 3 to 5 years (with exams)
• Average Salary: ₹4 LPA to ₹10+ LPA

Company Secretaries handle the legal side of businesses. If you enjoy law and business combined, this is a great career.

Career Options After 12th – Arts/Humanities Stream

1. Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) – History, Political Science, Literature, etc.

• Course Duration: 3 years
• Average Salary: ₹2 LPA to ₹6 LPA

Great for those interested in civil services, journalism, teaching, or research. Many students also prepare for UPSC and other government exams with this background.

2. Journalism & Mass Communication (BJMC)

• Course Duration: 3 years
• Average Salary: ₹3 LPA to ₹8LPA

If storytelling and media excite you, this course can lead to careers in TV, digital media, advertising, or public relations.

3. Hotel Management (BHM/B.Sc. in Hospitality)

• Course Duration: 3 to 4 years
• Average Salary: ₹3 LPA to ₹10 LPA

Travel, food, and hospitality are booming industries. You can work in hotels, airlines, cruise ships, or even abroad.

Bonus

Law(BALLB /Bcom.LLB/BSc.LLB/BBA.LLB)

• Course Duration: 5 years
• Average Salary: ₹3 LPA to ₹25+ LPA(Based on role)
• Role: Independent Advocate (litigation), Corporate Lawyer, Legal Advisor, Judicial Officer (Judge, after exam), Legal Process Outsourcing, NGOs or Social Sector Legal Jobs

Last but not least aw is a powerful and respected career option after 12th — and the best part is, you can pursue it from any stream (Science, Commerce, or Arts).

Final Thoughts

The truth is — there is no one “best” career after 12th. The best career is the one that suits your interest, skills, and goals.

Take time to explore. Talk to seniors, attend career counselling, and try internships or short courses before making a big decision.

I changed my path twice before finding what I truly enjoy — and that’s okay.

If this article helped you, share it with your classmates or on WhatsApp/Instagram. You never know who might need this guidance.

Stay curious. Stay confident. Your future is in your hands.