List of Top Entrance Exams in India after 12th

Stepping into higher education in India requires clearing competitive entrance exams, which serve as gateways to prestigious universities and professional courses. Whether you aspire to be an engineer, doctor, designer, lawyer, or business leader, choosing the right exam is the first step towards your dream career.

Let’s explore the top entrance exams in India after the 12th, entrance exam eligibility, syllabus, and preparation tips.

1. Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main

JEE Main is a national-level engineering entrance exam conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). It is the first step for students seeking admission to NITs, IIITs, and centrally funded technical institutions, as well as a qualifying exam for JEE Advanced.

Eligibility:

• Candidates must have passed 12th grade with Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects, along with one of Chemistry, Biotechnology, Biology, or Technical Vocational subjects.
• No age limit.

Syllabus: Covers Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics from the NCERT syllabus of classes 11 and 12.

Preparation Tips:

• Understand the exam pattern and marking scheme.
• Maintain a consistent study schedule.
• Practice mock tests and previous years’ papers.

2. Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Advanced

For those aiming for IITs, JEE Advanced is the next step after JEE Main.

Eligibility:

• Candidates must be among the top 2,50,000 qualifiers of JEE Main.
• Maximum two attempts in consecutive years.

Syllabus: Covers advanced topics in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.

Preparation Tips:

• Develop a deep conceptual understanding.
• Solve advanced problems to sharpen analytical skills.
• Practice time management.

3. National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET)

NEET is the gateway for MBBS, BDS, and other medical courses in India.

Eligibility:

• Candidates must have passed 12th grade with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English.
• Minimum age of 17 years.

Syllabus: Based on NCERT Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.

Preparation Tips:

• Thoroughly read NCERT books.
• Revise regularly.
• Solve previous years’ question papers.

4. National Institute of Design (NID) Entrance Exam

This exam is for those aspiring to pursue design careers at the National Institute of Design (NID).

Eligibility:

• Candidates must have completed or be appearing for 12th grade.
• Age limit: 20 years.

Syllabus: Tests design aptitude, creativity, visualisation, and comprehension.

Preparation Tips:

• Enhance creativity and visualization skills.
• Stay updated on current trends in design.
• Develop a strong portfolio.

5. National Defence Academy (NDA) Entrance Exam

Conducted by UPSC, NDA is for candidates aiming to join the Army, Navy, and Air Force wings.

Eligibility:

• Army Wing: 12th-grade pass.
• Air Force & Navy: 12th grade with Physics & Mathematics.
• Age: 16.5 – 19.5 years.

Syllabus: Includes Mathematics, General Ability, English, and Science.

Preparation Tips:

• Maintain physical fitness.
• Balance academic study with physical training.
• Solve mock tests regularly.

6. Common Law Admission Test (CLAT)

CLAT is required for admission to NLUs (National Law Universities) and other law colleges.

Eligibility:

• 12th grade with a minimum of 45% marks (40% for SC/ST).
• No age limit.

Syllabus: Includes English, Current Affairs, Legal Reasoning, Logical Reasoning, and Mathematics.

Preparation Tips:

• Develop a habit of reading newspapers.
• Understand basic legal concepts.
• Practice logical reasoning questions.

7. Chartered Accountancy (CA) Foundation Course

The CA Foundation Course is the first step in becoming a Chartered Accountant.

Eligibility:

• 12th-grade pass.

Syllabus: Covers Accounting, Business Laws, Mathematics, and Economics.

Preparation Tips:

• Focus on understanding core accounting principles.
• Regularly practice numerical problems.
• Attempt mock tests.

8. Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE)

GATE is for engineering graduates seeking higher studies or PSU jobs.

Eligibility:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering/Technology or Master’s in relevant Science subjects.

Syllabus: Varies based on discipline but includes core subjects, engineering mathematics, and general aptitude.

Preparation Tips:

• Strengthen conceptual understanding.
• Solve previous year’s papers.
• Revise regularly.

9. UGC National Eligibility Test (UGC NET)

UGC NET is conducted for eligibility as Assistant Professors and Junior Research Fellows.

Eligibility:

• Master’s degree with at least 55% marks.

Syllabus: Includes Teaching & Research Aptitude and Subject-Specific Knowledge.

Preparation Tips:

• Understand exam patterns.
• Focus on research trends in your subject.
• Manage time effectively.

10. National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Entrance Exam

For those interested in a career in fashion and design.

Eligibility:

• 12th-grade pass.
• Age limit: 23 years.

Syllabus: Includes Creative Ability Test (CAT) and General Ability Test (GAT).

Preparation Tips:

• Enhance sketching and creativity skills.
• Stay updated on fashion trends.
• Manage time efficiently.

Why Choose Shoolini University?

After clearing these entrance exams, you can apply to Shoolini University, one of India’s top private institutions offering courses in every field—engineering, management, law, biotechnology, AI, and more!

Shoolini University, ranked India’s No.1 Private University by Times Higher Education and QS World University Rankings, is renowned for its cutting-edge research, innovative programs, and high placement rates. With top-notch faculty, world-class infrastructure, and industry partnerships, it provides an ideal environment to kickstart your career.

Conclusion

Choosing the right entrance exam is a crucial decision that shapes your future. Whether it's JEE, NEET, CLAT, or any other, strategic preparation and perseverance are key. With the right approach and institutions like Shoolini University, you can turn your career aspirations into reality.

Good luck!