For students pursuing Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) in their 12th grade, the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) is often regarded as the primary pathway to top engineering colleges. However, it’s essential to note that many other prestigious institutions and courses are available for students who want to explore opportunities beyond JEE. Not only do these options provide fulfilling career paths, but they also cater to students interested in scientific research, mathematics, and other technical fields.
In this blog, we will cover the top entrance exams that PCM students can consider outside of JEE. By considering these alternatives, you will gain insights into different career paths in science, technology, and beyond, helping you make an informed decision about your future.
IISER Aptitude Test (IAT):
The Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISER) are among the top institutions in India for students passionate about research in basic sciences like physics, chemistry, and mathematics. Consequently, IISER offers a BS-MS dual degree program, which focuses on research and innovation, making it one of the best choices for students aiming for careers in scientific research. You can join IISER by cracking its entrance exam called IAT.
Eligibility-
Students must complete 12th grade with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) or Biology (PCB). Additionally, they need at least 60% in their qualifying exam (55% for SC/ST/PwD). For detailed eligibility criteria, click here.
Why IISER?
IISER fosters a research-oriented learning environment. Moreover, students start working on real research projects at the undergraduate level. The curriculum at IISER provides a blend of theoretical learning and practical application, thus preparing students for global research careers. Also, IISER students are eligible for INSPIRE scholarships.
SciAstra Courses for IAT:
To crack the IAT, you need a course that covers all aspects of the syllabus with deep conceptual clarity. Therefore, SciAstra’s Vikram 2.0 Batch is the best course for IAT & NEST 2025 preparation. It provides:
- Live classes and recordings
- Top mentors from IISc, IISERs, NISER
- Best theory & question banks
- Free IAT & NEST Crash course worth ₹4000
- Private telegram group for doubt-clearing
- Daily challenges with prizes for consistent students
Alternatively, students can opt for the Kalam Batch, which is designed specifically for students who prefer English content. In addition to this, the batch includes chapter-wise PYQs, regular mock tests, and special interactions with scientists, ensuring thorough preparation.
National Entrance Screening Test (NEST) for NISER:
The National Institute of Science Education and Research (NISER) in Bhubaneswar is another prestigious institution focused on scientific research. The National Entrance Screening Test (NEST) is the entrance exam for students aspiring to join NISER and the Department of Atomic Energy Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences (CEBS) in Mumbai. Moreover, NEST opens doors to incredible career opportunities for students interested in research. Apart from this, students selected in NEST are offered an annual scholarship of upto INR 80,0000.
Eligibility-
Candidates must have completed their 12th grade with at least 60% in PCM or PCB for general categories and 55% for SC/ST/PwD. For detailed eligibility criteria, click here.
Career Opportunities-
Graduates from NISER often pursue careers in research, academia, or high-level positions in government research organisations. Furthermore, NISER is affiliated with the Department of Atomic Energy, ensuring its graduates have access to excellent career opportunities in nuclear and scientific research.
SciAstra Courses for NEST:
SciAstra’s Kalam Batch provides the best preparation for NEST 2025. Along with complete coverage of the 11th and 12th syllabus, students get:
- Best study materials from top mentors
- Regular mock tests
- Private doubt-clearing groups
- Interaction with top researchers and scientists
Similarly, the Homi Batch 2026 is perfect for students aiming for IISER, NISER, and other research institutes. Moreover, this batch offers the best research-level study materials, SciAstra Books PDFs, and stress-buster sessions to help students manage exam pressure effectively.
CMI Entrance Exam:
The Chennai Mathematical Institute (CMI) is one of India’s top institutions for students interested in mathematics, computer science, and theoretical physics. Furthermore, the CMI Entrance Exam is highly competitive and tests students on advanced mathematical concepts.
Eligibility-
Students must have completed 12th grade with PCM. For detailed eligibility criteria, click here.
Career Prospects-
CMI graduates are highly valued in academia, research institutes, and top tech companies worldwide. Many CMI students go on to pursue PhDs at prestigious institutions like MIT, Princeton, and Harvard. Consequently, a degree from CMI offers vast opportunities for growth in both academic and corporate sectors.
SciAstra Courses for CMI:
SciAstra’s Aryabhata Batch with Crash Course is the perfect choice for CMI aspirants. This course offers:
- Extensive exercises with detailed solutions
- Special guidance for subjective papers
- Mock tests for both objective and subjective sections
- Private telegram group and doubt-clearing sessions
With such comprehensive preparation, this batch ensures that students master the conceptual and problem-solving skills required for success in the CMI entrance exam.
ISI Entrance Exam:
The Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) is the premier institution in India for studies in statistics, mathematics, and data science. Additionally, the ISI Entrance Exam is considered one of the toughest exams in India and is designed for students with a strong aptitude in mathematics and statistics. One of the best thing about ISI is that it charges no fee apart from recurring mess charges.
Eligibility-
Students must have passed 12th grade with PCM. For detailed eligibility criteria, click here.
Career Prospects-
ISI graduates are in high demand in sectors like data science, finance, academia, and research. Moreover, with the growing importance of big data, graduates from ISI often secure high-paying roles in tech companies, government institutions, and international organisations.
SciAstra Courses for ISI:
The Aryabhata Batch from SciAstra is specifically designed to prepare students for both ISI and CMI entrance exams. Furthermore, this batch offers:
- Solved and unsolved problems (ISI exam level)
- PYQs and regular mock tests
- Special doubt-clearing classes and guidance for the subjective paper
With top mentors from ISI and CMI, this course ensures that students are well-prepared for the challenges of these prestigious exams.
CUET (Common University Entrance Test):
The Common University Entrance Test (CUET) is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for admission to undergraduate programs in central universities across India, including Delhi University, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), and Banaras Hindu University (BHU). In addition, it offers a gateway to various programs in science and other disciplines.
Eligibility-
Students must have completed their 12th grade with PCM to apply for science-related courses. For detailed eligibility criteria, click here.
Career Opportunities-
CUET offers pathways into undergraduate programs in physics, mathematics, economics, and more. Moreover, graduates can pursue careers in research, education, corporate roles, or public services.
Other Exams:
In addition to the exams discussed above, PCM students can explore the following options:
1. IIST (Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology)
IIST, located in Thiruvananthapuram, offers B.Tech programs in Aerospace Engineering and Avionics, with direct recruitment to ISRO after graduation. It is an ideal choice for students interested in space science and technology. Furthermore, it provides access to some of the best space research opportunities in India.
2. NATA (National Aptitude Test in Architecture)
NATA is for students interested in pursuing a career in architecture. It tests both mathematical and creative skills, allowing students to pursue a B.Arch. program. Consequently, it’s a perfect blend of creativity and technical knowledge for those inclined toward design.
3. NDA (National Defence Academy)
The NDA exam is for students who wish to join the Indian Armed Forces. PCM students can apply for the Air Force and Navy wings, thus leading to prestigious careers as officers in the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force.
Conclusion:
While JEE is the most well-known exam for PCM students, there are plenty of other prestigious exams offering different career paths. Whether you are interested in scientific research, mathematics, space science, or defence, you can explore a range of entrance exams like IAT, NEST, CMI, ISI, CUET, and many others. Moreover, these exams open doors to careers that offer growth, innovation, and high rewards.
For students preparing for these exams, SciAstra provides top-notch courses, live classes, mock tests, and study materials to ensure your success. Whether it’s the Vikram 2.0 Batch for IAT/NEST or the Aryabhata Batch for CMI/ISI, SciAstra gives you the expert guidance and resources you need.
Choose SciAstra today to excel in your chosen entrance exam and secure a bright future!
References:
- SciAstra Course Catalog: SciAstra.com
- IISER Official Website: iiseradmission.in
- NISER NEST: niser.ac.in
- ISI Official Site: isi.ac.in
- CMI Official Website: cmi.ac.in
- IIST Official Website: iist.ac.in
- NATA Official Website: nata.in
- NDA Official Website for NDA Exam: upsc.gov.in
FAQs:
- Can PCM students apply for IISER and NISER through the IAT and NEST exams?
Yes, PCM students can apply for both IISER and NISER through the IAT and NEST exams. These exams offer entry into the BS-MS dual degree programs at IISER and the integrated M.Sc. program at NISER, respectively, which focus on scientific research and fundamental sciences. - Is CMI a good option for students who are strong in mathematics but not interested in engineering?
Absolutely! The Chennai Mathematical Institute (CMI) is one of the best institutions in India for students who excel in mathematics. CMI offers programs in mathematics, theoretical computer science, and physics, preparing students for careers in academia, research, and high-level corporate positions in data science, finance, and technology.
About Us:
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Since 2021, we have guided over 170,000 and taught more than 20,000 students, resulting in more than 2,000 top-ranked selections with AIR 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10, 12, and more in IISC Bangalore, IISER, NISER, IACS, and so on. If you are looking to prepare for IAT / NEST, ISI / CMI, IACS, you can check out our courses and get access to live classes, recorded lectures, study material, PYQs with detailed solutions, mock tests, doubt-clearing classes, and much more!
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