How to Become a Scientist in India After 12th: ISRO Qualifications, Exams & Career Paths

Scientists explore the mysteries of the world, answering questions about nature, space, and life through research and study. Many students passionate about subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, Biology, or Mathematics aspire to become scientists.

One of the top career options in India for aspiring scientists is the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). To join ISRO as a scientist, candidates typically complete 12th grade in Science, earn a relevant degree in fields such as Aerospace engineering or Physics and pass competitive exams. ISRO offers a platform for contributing to India’s space missions and cutting-edge research.

This blog explains the qualifications, exams, and career paths needed to become a scientist in India, with a focus on opportunities at ISRO.

How To Become Scientist After 12th?

Scientists are inquisitive individuals who seek to understand the world and the universe. They observe phenomena, ask critical questions, and investigate problems using a structured process called the scientific method. This method involves forming hypotheses, conducting experiments, and analysing results to discover patterns, truths, or new knowledge. Here’s how to become scientist after 12th:

Academic Foundation in School

To pursue a career in Science, students are generally expected to choose the Science stream (Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and/or Mathematics) in Classes 11 and 12.

Choosing the Right Research Scientist Qualifications

After Class 12, aspiring scientists typically pursue a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in a relevant subject. The specialisation depends on the student’s interest and future goals:

• Physics: BSc in Physics or Physics with a specialisation (e.g., Astrophysics, Electronics)
• Chemistry: BSc in Chemistry or specialised fields such as Organic or Inorganic Chemistry
• Biology: BSc in Biology or related fields like Zoology, Botany, or Microbiology
• Mathematics: BSc in Mathematics, Statistics, or Computer Science

Entrance Exams (if applicable)

Admissions into top universities may require students to clear the qualifying scientist exam after 12th. It is essential to review the eligibility criteria and entrance test requirements of the institutions to which one is applying.

Building a Strong Base in Undergraduate Studies

During the BSc programme, students should focus on:

• Strengthening their understanding of core concepts
• Engaging in practical experiments and research projects
• Developing analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills
• Building academic and professional networks through peers and faculty

Pursuing a Master’s Degree (MSc)

Most scientific careers benefit from postgraduate education. A Master of Science (MSc) enables students to specialise further, engage in advanced research, and prepare for academic or professional careers.

Advancing Through Doctoral Research (PhD)

For students interested in research and academia, a PhD is essential. Doctoral study involves conducting original research and contributing new insights to the field.

Postdoctoral Research (Optional)

Postdoctoral work offers additional research experience and is often pursued by those seeking senior research roles or faculty positions.

How To Become Scientist in ISRO After 12th?

How to become scientist after 12th; a broad path that covers various science disciplines like Biology, Physics, Chemistry, and Environmental Science is outlined in the pervious sections. However, for those specifically interested in how to become scientist in ISRO after 12th, it's important to understand that this career track is highly specialised, engineering-focused, and centred around India’s space research and satellite missions. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to become space scientist after 12th.

Step 1: Academic Preparation in School

Students must focus on core science subjects—Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics—during their higher secondary education. These subjects build the essential conceptual foundation for advanced studies in engineering or space science.

Step 2: Obtain a Relevant Bachelor’s Degree

After completing Class 12, aspirants should pursue a Bachelor’s degree in fields such as Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, or Computer Science. This forms the core of ISRO scientist qualification and marks a crucial academic step toward entering ISRO.

Step 3: Clear the ISRO Centralised Recruitment Board (ICRB) Exam

The answer to how to get job in ISRO after 12th is to pass the ICRB exam, which tests technical knowledge in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering disciplines. This competitive exam plays a key role in the recruitment process.

Step 4: Pursue Higher Studies for Specialisation

Many candidates opt for a master’s or PhD in specialised domains such as Astrophysics, Space Technology, Planetary Science, or Satellite Engineering. These advanced degrees improve research skills and deepen scientific expertise.

Step 5: Start as a Junior Research Fellow (JRF)

Entry into ISRO often begins with a Junior Research Fellowship. This offers candidates the opportunity to work on real-world space projects and gain hands-on research experience under the guidance of expert supervision.

ISRO Entrance Exam After 12th

Candidates who are interested in learning how to become space scientist after 12th must first pursue a degree in engineering or technology. To enter top engineering institutes and later qualify for recruitment by ISRO, two major exams come into play. The information on how to get into ISRO after 12th through entrance exams is given below:

Note: The ISRO entrance exam after 12th grade begins with JEE, which is the first step to gaining admission into BTech/BE programmes. These degrees provide the necessary academic foundation for candidates to appear for the ICRB exam and become an ISRO scientist.

How to Get into ISRO After 12th – Skills Required

Becoming an ISRO scientist requires technical skills, analytical ability, and strong personal qualities. For those wondering how to get a job in ISRO after 12th, building key skills is essential. These include critical thinking, technical knowledge, teamwork and more.

Career Opportunities in ISRO

The Department of Space (DOS) offers diverse career opportunities across various specialisations and qualifications. Below are some of the major job roles available currently. New opportunities in other disciplines may open in the future, so it is advisable to check ISRO’s career opportunities page regularly.

Scientific and Technical Category:

Scientist/Engineer Posts: These positions are open to graduates, postgraduates, and doctorate holders. Relevant fields include Electronics, Mechanical, Computer Science, Electrical, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and more. Recruitment is conducted through the ISRO Centralised Recruitment Board (ICRB).

ISRO scientists and engineers are assigned different grades that correspond to their monthly salaries. Engineering graduates (freshers) usually start at the SC (Scientist/Engineer – ‘SC’ is the entry-level grade at ISRO) level. Over time, they get promoted to the designation of Scientist/Engineer-SD.

There are higher grade levels beyond this, including SE, SF, SG, G, and H. At the top of these grades are two special titles: outstanding Scientist, awarded for exceptional qualifications, and distinguished scientist, which is the highest grade achievable within ISRO.

Final Thoughts

A career in Science is built on curiosity, hard work, and the desire to explore the unknown. For students aiming to join ISRO, the journey begins early, right after Class 12. With the proper education, skills, and focus, this dream is possible.

ISRO offers more than just a job — it provides a chance to serve the nation through Science. If students are dedicated and well-qualified, they can achieve their wish of becoming scientists and growing India’s scientific sector.

FAQs

Q1: What does a scientist do?

A1: Scientists refer to experts who use the scientific method to find new knowledge about nature. They carry out investigations, take time to analyse information, suggest theories, and explain their results to help expand our knowledge.

Q2: What is the salary of a scientist?

A2: In India, scientists’ salaries depend on their expertise, work environment, and area of Science. A scientist’s income may be anywhere from INR 5,14,000 to INR 17,00,000 every year. Some scientists can even earn up to INR 22,00,000, according to Glassdoor.

Q3: How can I join NASA?

A3: Completing 12th grade is the first step. Higher education in Science, Engineering, or Mathematics, Aeronautical Engineering, and Computer Science is important. For job opportunities at NASA, candidates should regularly check the official website, nasa.gov, for openings.

Q4: What is the salary in ISRO?

A4: Salary at ISRO varies depending on experience and role, beginning with an average of INR 56,100 each month and increasing up to INR 1,77,500 or more. Those holding positions such as Distinguished Scientist or the ISRO Chairman tend to earn a higher salary.

Q5: What qualifications do I need to be a scientist?

A5: Having a solid education in Science is necessary to become a scientist. A Bachelor’s in a Science subject is usually needed, followed by a Master’s or a PhD for those who want to pursue advanced research.

Q6: How many years to become a scientist after 12th?

A6: Becoming a scientist typically requires 9 to 12 years of education beyond completing 10+2, depending on the specific field and desired career path. This includes a Bachelor's degree (BSc or BTech), a Master's degree (MSc or MTech), and potentially a PhD. Note that timelines vary based on field, research goals, and specialisations.

Q7: Who is eligible for ISRO exam?

A7: To be eligible for the ISRO Centralised Recruitment Board (ICRB) exam, you generally need a BE/BTech or equivalent degree in a relevant engineering field with a minimum of 65% marks (or equivalent CGPA) and a valid GATE score in the relevant subject.