What Are The Popular Career Options After Completing Class 12 Commerce?

Have you ever thought about the exciting possibilities that lie ahead once you complete your 12th grade in commerce? It’s the beginning of an incredible journey where the choices you make today will shape your future. The best part is that in 2024, there will be a wide range of fascinating courses and career options for you to explore. 

As a commerce student, you might be wondering: what is the best course for me after 12th commerce? With your background in economics, finance, and business, the world is your oyster. Whether you aspire to be a business professional, marketing guru, or financial expert, there are courses tailored to suit your interests and goals. This blog is your key to discovering a personalised list of courses after 12th commerce, as well as exploring professional courses and different career paths. So, fuelled by curiosity and armed with the knowledge to create a fulfilling and successful career, are you ready to embark on this adventure beyond 12th commerce? 

Why Entrance Exams Are Crucial For Career Paths

Entrance exams are extremely important when it comes to shaping your career after completing Class 12 Commerce. They serve as a pathway to prestigious institutions and lucrative job opportunities. These exams not only evaluate your knowledge in specific subjects but also assess your problem-solving skills, critical thinking abilities, and suitability for your chosen field. 

Performing well in entrance exams can provide you with access to some of the top colleges and universities, giving you an advantage over your peers. It showcases your dedication, commitment, and potential to excel in your desired career path. Moreover, entrance exams assist employers and educational institutions in identifying the most qualified candidates, ensuring a fair and competitive selection process.

• Skill Assessment: Entrance exams evaluate a candidate’s knowledge, aptitude, and skills relevant to the chosen career path, ensuring they possess the necessary foundation for success.
• Fair Selection: These exams provide an objective and standardised method for selecting candidates, promoting fairness and equal opportunities based on merit rather than subjective criteria.
• Quality Assurance: By setting a benchmark, entrance exams help institutions maintain academic standards, ensuring that individuals entering a specific field meet a predefined level of competence.
• Career Specialisation: Entrance exams often serve as gateways to specialised fields, directing individuals toward careers where their aptitudes align, and fostering expertise and excellence in specific domains.

Popular Entrance Exams For Commerce Students

Common Admission Test (CAT)

CAT is an exam held in India for students who want to pursue postgraduate management programmes. It’s conducted online and is mainly for admission to prestigious institutions like IIMs and other top business schools. Here are some important things to know about CAT:

Purpose 

CAT assesses a candidate’s aptitude and skills in areas such as quantitative ability, verbal ability, data interpretation, and logical reasoning, aiming to identify individuals with potential for management education.

Exam Structure

The CAT exam is a three-hour online test that is divided into three parts: Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC), Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR), and Quantitative Ability (QA). Each part has its time limit, and participants are not allowed to switch between them.

Eligibility

Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree with at least 50% aggregate marks (45% for SC/ST/PwD categories). Final-year students can also apply.

Registration

CAT registration usually starts in August, and the exam takes place either in November or December. To complete the process, you’ll need to fill out an application form online, upload the necessary documents, and pay the registration fee.

Scoring

CAT uses a scaled scoring system. Each section has a maximum score, and the overall CAT score is a composite of these section scores. Percentile scores are provided, indicating a candidate’s performance relative to others.

Selection Process

CAT scores are a crucial component in the selection process for management programmes. Besides the CAT score, other factors like academic performance, work experience, group discussion, personal interview, and written ability test may also contribute to the final selection.

Validity

CAT scores usually remain valid for a year, allowing candidates to utilise them for admission in the corresponding academic year.

Candidates aspiring for managerial roles often consider CAT as a gateway to prestigious institutions, making it a highly competitive and sought-after examination in the field of business education in India.

National Entrance Test (NET): 

The National Testing Agency (NTA) administers the NET to assess candidates’ eligibility for the Assistant Professor or Junior Research Fellowship positions. If you’re a commerce student, you can take the UGC NET Commerce exam, which evaluates your understanding of subjects such as accounting, business management, economics, and marketing. Qualifying for the NET exam can lead to exciting prospects in teaching and research. Here’s an overview of the NET in India:

Purpose

The main goal of the NET is to assess the suitability of candidates for Assistant Professorship and Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in universities and colleges in India.

Subjects

NET is conducted in various subjects, encompassing humanities, social sciences, environmental sciences, computer science, electronic science, and more. Candidates can choose the subject that aligns with their educational background and expertise.

Frequency

The NET exam is usually held twice a year, typically in June and December.

Eligibility Criteria

• For Assistant Professor: Applicants must hold a master’s degree or its equivalent with a minimum of 55% marks (50% for reserved categories).
• For JRF: Along with the aforementioned criteria, candidates should be under 30 years of age. Relaxation is given for reserved categories.

Exam Pattern

The NET exam consists of two papers – Paper I and Paper-II. Paper I tests teaching and research aptitude, while Paper II assesses the candidate’s expertise in the chosen subject.

Scoring

NET is a merit-based examination. Candidates who clear the minimum qualifying criteria are awarded the NET qualification certificate, which is essential for applying for Assistant Professor positions or pursuing research through a Junior Research Fellowship.

Validity

The NET qualification is generally valid for a specified period, and candidates can use it to apply for teaching positions or research opportunities.

Chartered Accountancy (CA) Entrance Exams

Commerce students who aspire to become Chartered Accountants must pass the CA entrance exams administered by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI). These exams are divided into three levels: Foundation, Intermediate, and Final. Successfully clearing these exams, along with fulfilling the necessary articleship and practical training, paves the way for a fulfilling career as a CA.

Here are the key steps:

• CA Foundation Course: To start the CA journey, candidates can register for the CA Foundation Course after completing their 10+2 examinations.
• CA Intermediate Course: After clearing the Foundation level, candidates can appear for the CA Intermediate exams.
• Articleship Training: Successful completion of the Intermediate level allows candidates to commence practical training known as articleship. This training lasts for about 3 years.
• CA Final Course: Following the completion of the articleship, candidates can take the CA Final exams.
• Membership: Upon passing the Final exams and fulfilling other requirements, individuals become members of ICAI and are designated as Chartered Accountants.

Company Secretary (CS) Entrance Exams

The Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) conducts CS entrance exams for students interested in pursuing a career as a Company Secretary. The exams comprise three levels: Foundation, Executive, and Professional. Clearing these exams, along with fulfilling the practical training requirements, opens up opportunities in corporate governance, compliance, and secretarial roles. Here are the key steps:

• Foundation Programme: The CS course begins with the Foundation Programme, which is open to candidates who have completed their 10+2 examinations.
• Executive Programme: After completing the Foundation level or holding a relevant degree, candidates can enrol in the Executive Programme.
• Professional Programme: Successful completion of the Executive Programme allows candidates to enrol in the Professional Programme.
• Training: Besides clearing the examinations, candidates must undergo practical training and pass the Professional Programme to become eligible for Associate Membership.
• Final Examination: The Final Examination is the last step in becoming a qualified Company Secretary.

Common University Entrance Test (CUET)

If you’re aiming to secure a spot in any of the 44 central universities or 46 other institutes, then taking the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) is essential. This national-level exam, organised by the National Testing Agency (NTA), serves as the gateway to various undergraduate programmes.

Purpose

University entrance exams are created to simplify the process of getting into undergraduate programmes at different universities. Their goal is to offer a consistent evaluation for students who are applying to various universities.

Participating Universities 

CUET may involve several universities collectively agreeing to use a common entrance test for their undergraduate admissions.

Exam Structure

The test typically assesses candidates on subjects relevant to their chosen field of study. It may include sections such as quantitative ability, verbal reasoning, logical reasoning, and subject-specific knowledge.

Score Validity

The scores obtained in CUET are typically valid for the admission cycle corresponding to the academic year for which the test is conducted.

Cost And Management Accountancy (CMA)

The Institute of Cost Accountants of India (ICMAI) conducts entrance exams for CMA. Clearing these exams, along with the practical training requirements, leads to becoming a Cost and Management Accountant.

Objective

The CMA certification is aimed at professionals who want to specialise in cost and management accounting. CMAs play a crucial role in financial planning, decision-making, and performance management within organisations.

Examination Structure 

The CMA course comprises three stages – Foundation, Intermediate, and Final. Each stage has multiple subjects covering areas such as cost accounting, financial management, strategic management, taxation, and business ethics.

Eligibility Criteria

For Foundation: Candidates must have completed their 10+2 education.

For Intermediate: A bachelor’s degree is required.

Training Requirement

To become a CMA, candidates must undergo practical training and gain relevant work experience. This practical training is known as the Practical Training and Computer Training Programme (PTCTP).

Membership

Upon successful completion of the Final stage and fulfilment of the practical training requirements, candidates become eligible for Associate Membership of the ICAI and can use the designation ACMA (Associate Cost and Management Accountant).

Examinations

The CMA examinations are held twice a year, typically in June and December.

The Actuarial Common Entrance Test (ACET)

The Actuarial Common Entrance Test (ACET) is organised by the Institute of Actuaries of India. This exam takes place three times annually and serves as a gateway for admission into Actuarial programmes at various Indian institutions. The ACET result remains valid for three years, starting from the date of declaration, allowing students to become members of IAI. If you’re interested in pursuing Actuarial programmes, make sure to take the ACET exam.

Purpose

ACET is specifically created for those who have a keen interest in pursuing a profession in actuarial science. It acts as a gateway for individuals to become student members of the Institute.

Eligibility

There is no specific eligibility requirement for appearing in ACET. It is open to candidates from all educational backgrounds, including commerce, science, and arts.

Exam Structure

ACET is a fantastic online test that evaluates candidates in various subjects such as maths, statistics, data interpretation, English, and logical reasoning. The primary objective of this examination is to assess the aptitude of candidates for actuarial studies.

Scoring

ACET consists of 70 Multiple Choice Questions and is graded on a scale. It’s worth noting that there is no penalty for incorrect answers. To qualify for admission as a student member of the Institute, candidates must achieve a minimum passing score of 50%.

Career Paths After Class 12 Commerce

After completing Class 12 Commerce, you have several career paths to explore. Let’s take a look at some of the options available to you:

Bachelor Of Commerce (B.Com) 

B.Com is a favoured option for Commerce students, providing a thorough grasp of accounting, finance, economics, and business management. Delhi University Entrance Test (DUET), Symbiosis Entrance Test (SET), and Banaras Hindu University Undergraduate Entrance Test (BHU UET) are some of the common entrance exams for B.Com admissions.

Course Highlights Of Bachelor Of Commerce (B. Com)

• Course Level: Undergraduate
• Duration: 3 years
• Mode: Regular / Full time
• Eligibility: 50% marks in class 12 or equivalent examination
• Admission Process: Merit-Based/Entrance Exams
• Job Options: Digital Marketer, Accountant, Financial Risk Manager, Business Analyst

Bachelor Of Business Administration (BBA): 

BBA, also known as Bachelor of Business Administration, is a highly popular course that provides students with valuable management skills and knowledge. To secure admission in BBA programmes, students are required to appear for entrance exams such as IPU CET, IPMAT, and AIMA UGAT (All India Management Association Undergraduate Aptitude Test). These exams are conducted by different institutions offering BBA courses.

Course Highlights Of Bachelor Of Business Administration (B.B.A)

• Course Level: Undergraduate
• Course Duration: 3 years
• Examination: Semester/Year-wise
• Eligibility: 10+2 or equivalent from a recognised educational board
• Job Positions: Business Administration Researcher, Marketing Manager, Finance Manager, Human Resource Manager, etc.

Bachelor Of Accounting And Finance (BAF)

The BAF programme, also known as the Bachelor of Accounting and Finance, is a comprehensive three-year undergraduate course that focuses on developing a strong understanding of accounting and finance. Specifically designed for students who have completed their 12th commerce, this programme equips them with the necessary technical skills for financial analysis and ensures compliance with accounting standards. The BAF programme is highly regarded and considered one of the top choices for professional courses after 12th commerce.

Course Highlights Of Bachelor Of Accounting And Finance (BAF):

• Course Level: Undergraduate
• Duration: 3 years
• Mode: Regular/Full time
• Eligibility: Class 12th Board exams
• Admission Process: Merit-Based/Entrance Exams
• Job Options: Audit Manager, Investment Banker

Bachelor Of Economics (BE)

The BE programme, also known as Bachelor of Economics, is a 3-year undergraduate course that centres on the study of how goods and services are produced, distributed, and consumed. This course is specifically designed for individuals who have a keen interest in excelling in the areas of Banking, Finance, and major corporate industries. It is an extremely valuable course for commerce students after completing their 12th grade.

Course Highlights Of Bachelor Of Economics (BE)

• Course Level: Undergraduate
• Duration: 3 years
• Mode: Regular/Full time
• Eligibility: Class 12th Board exams with 50% aggregate marks
• Admission Process: Merit-Based/Entrance Exams
• Job Options: Economic Researcher, Securities Analyst Trainee, Customer Profit Analyst, Investment Analyst, Fixed Income Portfolio Manager

Integrated Programmes 

Several universities offer integrated programmes like B.Com+LLB, BBA+MBA, and B.Com+MBA for Commerce students who want to pursue a combination of commerce and law or management. Admissions to these programmes are through respective university-level entrance exams.

Government Job Opportunities For Commerce Students 

Commerce students have the chance to venture into government job opportunities across different sectors. Several well-known government job exams cater specifically to Commerce students. 

Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Exams: 

Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) UPSC, which stands for Union Public Service Commission, is a significant recruiting agency in India. Its main role is to choose candidates for different administrative and civil services on a national scale. Let’s take a look at some important information about UPSC.

Civil Services Examination (CSE) 

UPSC conducts the Civil Services Examination annually, which is one of the most prestigious and competitive exams in India. Successful candidates are recruited for various administrative services such as the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), and more.

Exam Stages

The Civil Services Examination consists of three stages – Preliminary Examination (Objective Type), Main Examination (Written and Interview), and Personality Test (Interview).

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the UPSC Civil Services Exam, candidates must possess a Bachelor’s Degree from a recognised University. When it comes to age requirements, candidates should be at least 21 years old but not more than 32 years old. This rule applies to both General Category and EWS candidates, who are given a maximum of 6 attempts until they turn 32.

Other Examinations

Apart from the Civil Services Examination, UPSC conducts various other exams such as the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination, National Defence Academy (NDA) Examination, Indian Forest Service Examination, and more.

Exam Pattern

The UPSC exams follow a comprehensive pattern that includes a mix of objective and subjective questions. The interview process evaluates the personality and suitability of candidates for the services.

Interview Board

The Personality Test or Interview is conducted by a Board appointed by UPSC. It assesses the candidate’s intellectual and moral qualities.

Staff Selection Commission (SSC) Exams

SSC conducts exams like the Combined Graduate Level (CGL) Exam and Junior Accountant Exam for recruitment in various government departments. Commerce students can apply for positions like Auditor, Accountant, and Tax Assistant through these exams.

The SSC, also known as the Staff Selection Commission, plays a crucial role in India by managing the hiring process for various government departments and ministries. Now, let’s delve into some key information about the SSC exams, including the Combined Graduate Level (CGL) Exam and the Junior Accountant Exam.

Combined Graduate Level (CGL) Exam

This is one of the prominent exams conducted by SSC, attracting candidates from various educational backgrounds, including commerce. CGL offers opportunities for recruitment in Group B and Group C posts in different government offices.

Junior Accountant Exam

SSC conducts exams for positions like Auditor, Accountant, and Tax Assistant. Commerce students can apply for these roles through SSC exams, and these positions often involve responsibilities related to auditing, accounting, and taxation.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the SSC CGL exam, you must possess a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. The age criteria vary depending on the particular position you are applying for, and there are concessions available for certain groups.

Exam Pattern

SSC exams usually consist of multiple tiers, including a Preliminary Examination (if applicable), a Main Examination, and sometimes a Skill Test or Interview. The exam pattern may include sections on English, Quantitative Aptitude, General Awareness, and others, depending on the specific exam.

Roles For Commerce Students 

Commerce students can find opportunities in various positions such as Auditor, Accountant, Tax Assistant, and more, depending on the exam and the services they choose during the application process. SSC exams are popular among candidates seeking government jobs, and they provide a platform for individuals, including commerce graduates, to secure positions in various government departments.

Banking Exams

Bank exams are competitive examinations conducted by banking organisations or government bodies to recruit candidates for various positions in the banking sector. Here are key points about bank exams in India:

Common Bank Exams

Several banking exams are conducted by different organisations, with some of the common ones being:

• IBPS (Institute of Banking Personnel Selection) Exams: Includes exams like IBPS PO (Probationary Officer), IBPS Clerk, IBPS SO (Specialist Officer), etc.
• SBI (State Bank of India) Exams: Includes SBI PO, SBI Clerk, etc.

Positions Offered

Bank exams recruit candidates for positions such as Probationary Officers, Clerks, Specialist Officers, and other roles in public sector banks, regional rural banks, and private banks.

Eligibility Criteria

To participate in any of the bank exams eligibility 2024, all applicants must be Indian citizens. Additionally, candidates must have completed their graduation in any field from a recognised university or hold an equivalent qualification recognised by the Central Government of India.

Exam Pattern

Bank exams usually consist of multiple phases, including Preliminary Examination, Main Examination, and in some cases, interviews. The exam pattern typically includes sections like Quantitative Aptitude, Reasoning Ability, English Language, and General Awareness.

Result And Selection

Results are declared for each stage of the exam, and successful candidates proceed to the next phase. Final selection is based on merit, and in some cases, an interview or group discussion may be part of the selection process.

Railway Exams

Railway exams in India are conducted by the Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) and the Railway Recruitment Cell (RRC) to recruit candidates for various positions in the Indian Railways. Here are key details about railway exams:

Common Railway Exams

• RRB NTPC (Non-Technical Popular Categories): For positions like Junior Clerk cum Typist, Accounts Clerk cum Typist, Trains Clerk, Commercial cum Ticket Clerk, etc.
• RRB Group D: For positions like Track Maintainer Grade-IV, Helper/Assistant, Assistant Pointsman, etc.
• RRB ALP (Assistant Loco Pilot) and Technician: For positions in the technical category.

Eligibility Criteria

If you want to take the exam, there are some requirements you need to meet. You should be aged between 18 and 33 and have either a Class 10 qualification or an ITI degree or diploma. Remember, if you fail to submit the necessary documents, you won’t be eligible for the RRB Group D exam.

Exam Pattern

• RRB NTPC: It includes stages like Preliminary Examination, Main Examination, Typing Skill Test/Computer-Based Aptitude Test, and Document Verification/Medical Examination.
• RRB Group D: The selection process includes a Computer Based Test (CBT), Physical Efficiency Test (PET), Document Verification, and Medical Examination.
• RRB ALP And Technician: It involves First Stage CBT, Second Stage CBT, Computer-Based Aptitude Test/Typing Skill Test, and Document Verification/Medical Examination.

Roles In Indian Railways 

Positions in the Indian Railways include clerical roles, technical roles, and various support positions essential for the functioning of the railway network.

Exam Prep: Coaching Institutes & Online Resources

To enhance your exam preparation, you can consider enrolling in coaching institutes that specialise in Commerce entrance exams. Some renowned coaching institutes include:

• Career Launcher: Career Launcher offers comprehensive coaching programmes for entrance exams like CAT, CA, CS, and B.Com admissions. Their experienced faculty and well-designed study materials can help you excel in your chosen exams.
• TIME (Triumphant Institute of Management Education): TIME provides coaching for CAT, B.Com, and other management entrance exams. Their mock tests and personalised mentoring can significantly improve your chances of success.
• SuperProfs: SuperProfs is an online platform that offers video lectures and study materials for various Commerce entrance exams. It allows you to learn at your own pace and provides access to expert faculty from the comfort of your home.
• Unacademy: Unacademy is a well-known e-learning platform that provides a diverse selection of courses, including Commerce entrance exams. It offers video lectures, live classes, and study materials from top educators to assist you in preparing efficiently.
• Khan Academy: Khan Academy is a free online learning platform that offers comprehensive video lessons and practice exercises in subjects like mathematics, economics, and finance. It can be a valuable resource for self-study and revision.

Mapping Your Future

Here are a few popular and up-and-coming career paths in the commerce field. However, there are numerous other opportunities and a wide range of possibilities in this diverse field. You can explore and discover a suitable career option based on your interests and preferences. It is important to conduct thorough research to select the best course options for commerce students. Instead of getting overwhelmed by the multitude of choices, take the time to analyse your interests, thoroughly research all potential courses and career options, consider eligibility requirements, institutions, future job prospects, and other factors, and then make an informed decision.

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