List of Top Competitive Exams After Class 10 in India (2025)

Are you a student or parent curious about the exciting opportunities after class 10? In today’s fast-changing world, choosing the right competitive exam after 10 can lead to high-growth careers, specialized courses, and a head start in your professional life. Whether you hope to enter engineering, polytechnic, defense, or government sectors, planning and having the correct information are vital for success.

This guide offers the latest insights on the top competitive exams after 10th in India, including eligibility, exam patterns, preparation strategies, and practical tips from experts and top performers. With reliable, current information and a clear plan, you’ll be ready to make informed choices, explore various career paths, and stand out in a competitive academic environment. Let’s discover your future together, one exam at a time!

10 Most-Sorted Competitive Exams after 10th

Now, let us dive a little deep into exams after the 10th. We will also see how students can begin studying for competitive exams after 10th for scholarships. 

Exam Name	Conducted By	Key Benefit
NTSE (National Talent Search Exam)	NCERT	Scholarships up to PhD level
KVPY (Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana)	Dept. of Science & Tech (Now merged under INSPIRE)	Research fellowships for science students
Olympiads (NSO, IMO, IEO, NCO)	SOF/ISEA	Develops subject mastery & global competition exposure
Polytechnic Entrance Exams	State Technical Boards	Admission into diploma engineering courses
Indian Navy SSR & MR (after 10th/12th)	Indian Navy	Career in the defense forces
Indian Army Soldier Entry (GD/Tradesman)	Indian Army	Clerical/logistics role in the Air Force
Indian Air Force Group Y (Non-Technical)	Indian Air Force	Entry into the Indian Naval Services
CLAT UG (5-year Integrated Law)	CLAT Consortium	Entry into top NLUs for law
All India Open Mathematics Scholarship (AIMS Talent Exam)	AIMS Foundation	Scholarship & math proficiency boost
All India Entrance Exam for Scholarship (AIEES)	Govt./Private Institutes	Entry into the Indian Naval services

Want to explore the pool of competitive exams? Dive deeper into our guide on Government Exams. 

Best Competitive Exams After 10th

1. Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana (KYPY)

The Department of Science and Technology has prepared the KVPY scheme. It is one of the competitive exams after the 10^th  for students to provide scholarships. The main objective of the exam is to bring exceptional students to the forefront. It helps the students who want to understand things in science and technology.

KVPY identifies students with aptitude in Science and Technology. To help them financially, the Government of India-led exam provides grants and scholarships. The fellowship is awarded only to students pursuing higher studies in PhD or Master’s degrees. It is one of the preferred competitive exams after the 10th.

2. National Talent Search Examination (NTSE)

NTSE is a national-level scholarship scheme for school students. It is perfect for students preparing for competitive exams after the 10th. The scholarship aims to help identify students with high aptitude and talent and provide them with scholarships. Conducted by NCERT, the scholarship exam is held on two different levels. It assesses students’ aptitude in science, mathematics, and social sciences through multiple-choice questions.

3. Indian National Olympiad (INO)

INO tests are conducted for school students across the country. Students from classes I to XII of arts, commerce, or science stream are eligible for the competitive exam. It adds value to your resume. Students who succeed in Olympiads also get an edge over others regarding admission to schools, colleges, and jobs. Thus, students who want to feel what real competitive exams after 10th are like should engage themselves in Olympiads.

4. National Level Science Talent Search Examination (NSTSE)

The National Level Science Talent Search Examination (NSTSE), organized by the Integrated Council of India, is a renowned platform for students preparing for competitive exams after 10th. This exam evaluates students’ proficiency in mathematics and science, providing a detailed report of their national ranking to motivate them to improve their performance. Unlike other exams, NSTSE focuses on assessing the understanding of fundamental concepts rather than speed. By strengthening core knowledge in science and mathematics, NSTSE plays a crucial role in preparing students for future competitive exams like JEE and NEET.

5. Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT)

The SAT is one of the standard competitive exams after 10^th  that the College Board organization of the United States holds it for students who wish to study abroad. The SAT score is necessary to get admission to all foreign institutes. For students who want to study in foreign colleges, it is one of the best competitive exams after 10th. Indian universities have also started accepting SAT scores.

6. Assessment of Scholastic Tests (ASSET)

ASSET (Assessment of Scholastic Skills through Educational Testing) is a diagnostic test designed to assess students’ scholastic skills in Mathematics, Science, and English. This is one of the competitive exams after 10th that is developed by Educational Initiatives Pvt. Ltd. (EI) and is used by schools in India and abroad. The ASSET exams after 10th provide a detailed report that includes an analysis of the student’s performance in each subject, strengths and weaknesses, and recommendations for improvement. The test can also be used as a benchmarking tool to compare a student’s performance with that of their peers nationally and internationally.

7. International English Olympiad (IEO)    

The International English Olympiad (IEO) is a competitive exam after 10th that tests English language skills. The Indian Talent Olympiad organizes it at the national and international levels. The IEO exam tests your grammar skills, spelling fluency, and sentence structure. This Olympiad will help you to enhance your language skills. There are two levels of exam. The first is MCQ based, and after qualifying, students will appear for the second level.

8. Indian Navy Matric Recruitment

Indian Navy Matric Recruitment is one of the best competitive exams after 10th grade for students who want to make their career in the Navy. Its selection process is based on computer-based Examinations, physical tests, and medical tests. Selected candidates will undergo a further 14 weeks of naval training.

9. Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya Selection Test (JNVST)

Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya Admission JNVST is one of the government competitive exams after 10th grade conducted annually across the country. The subject consists of Mental Ability 50 marks, Arithmetic 25 marks, and Language 25 marks. The exam is two hours long and MCQ-based. You must get 75 to 80% marks to pass the exam.

10. National Biotechnology Olympiad (NBO)      

NBTO exam tests are one of the best competitive exams after the 10th for biology students interested in technology. This exam tests the aptitude of the students who want to pursue Biotechnology. It is a beneficial exam as it also enhances the knowledge of science. The curriculum of NBTO is based on environmental science and basic biotechnology. It is a half-hour test with 40 mental and general ability questions.

Read More:

• List Of Competitive Exams After Graduation in 2025
• Toughest Exam in India – The Complete List

Top 5 Competitive Exams After 10th

There are many engineering and medical competitive exams after 10th, which you can prepare for in advance if you want to make your career in this field.

Exams	Eligibility Criteria	Syllabus
Joint Entrance Examination (JEE)	1. Students must have passed 12th with 75% from a recognized board.	JEE Main Syllabus: Mathematics: Sets, Relations and Functions, Complex Numbers and Quadratic Equations, etc.Physics: Physics and Measurement, Kinematics, Laws of Motion, Work, Energy and Power, etc. Chemistry: Physical Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Solutions, Equilibrium etc. 2. JEE Advanced: Physics: Mechanics, Waves and Optics, Electrodynamics, Thermal Physics Chemistry: Physical Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry. Mathematics: Algebra, Trigonometry, Analytical Geometry, Differential Calculus
National Eligibility Entrance Test (NEET)	1. Students must have passed 12th with Chemistry, Biology, Physics and English.	1. Physics: Physical World and Measurement, Kinematics, Laws of Motion, Work, Energy and Power, etc.2. Chemistry: Hydrocarbons, Environmental Chemistry, Solid State, Solutions, Electrochemistry etc.3. Biology: Diversity in Living World, Structural Organization in Animals and Plants, Cell Structure and Function
National Talent Search Examination (NTSE)	1. Student must have passed the 9th  exam with a score of 60% or higher and is enrolled in class 10th	Stage 1: Mental Ability Test (MAT)Scholastic Ability Test (SAT) Stage 2: Mental Ability Test (MAT)Scholastic Ability Test (SAT)Language Test
Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test	1. Students must have passed 12th with Chemistry, Biology, Physics	1. Mathematics: Algebra, Trigonometry, Geometry, Calculus2. Physics: Mechanics, Heat, Thermodynamics, Optics3. Chemistry: Physical Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Inorganic Chemistry.4. English: Grammar, Vocabulary, Comprehension, and Usage.5. General Knowledge: Current Affairs, General Science, History, Geography, and Economics.
National Defence Academy Exam (NDA)	1. NDA  Age Limit 2023, Marital Status & Gender 2. Citizenship/Nationality 3. NDA Qualification	1. Mathematics2. General Ability Test (GAT)

Top 5 Government Competitive Exams After 10th

Some of the top government competitive exams after 10th are as follows:

1. Joint Entrance Examination (JEE)

JEE exam is one of the most sorted competitive exams after 10^th by students. The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducts this joint entrance exam. It is a two-tier exam divided into JEE Main and JEE Advanced. The exam is taken by students who wish to pursue undergraduate engineering courses in top colleges and universities across India. JEE Main is a computer-based exam consisting of multiple-choice questions while JEE Advanced is a paper-based exam with both multiple-choice and numerical answer-type questions. The exam tests students on their physics, chemistry, and mathematics knowledge.

2. National Eligibility Entrance Test (NEET)

National Eligibility Entrance Test, NEET, popularly known as the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test, is among the most sought-after competitive exams after 10th for students aspiring to pursue medical courses. Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), this exam is mandatory for admission to MBBS, BDS, and other medical programs in government and private institutions across India. NEET is a computer-based test featuring multiple-choice physics, chemistry, and biology questions. Typically held once a year in May or June, candidates must achieve a minimum qualifying score to secure admission to their desired medical programs.

3. National Talent Search Examination (NTSE)

The National Talent Search Examination (NTSE) is a scholarship program in India that identifies and nurtures talented students. It is conducted in two stages: Stage 1 for class 10 students and Stage 2 for those who qualify in Stage 1. The exam assesses students’ reasoning, analytical, and critical thinking skills in Mathematics, Science, and Social Science. Students who clear the NTSE exams are awarded scholarships up to the PhD level. This is one of the highly competitive exams after 10th that requires extensive preparation and student dedication.

4. Indian Maritime University Common Entrance Test

Those students who want to be admitted to Nautical Science) can appear in the exam. It is a national-level exam conducted by the government of India where students can be admitted to reputed colleges and study BSc and BBA programs.

5. National Defence Academy Exam (NDA)

The National Defence Academy (NDA) exam is another of the competitive exams after the 10th conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) of India. It is a gateway for candidates to get admission to the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force wings of the NDA. This exam is held twice a year, and candidates who have completed their 10+2 education can apply. The selection process of this entrance exam involves a written exam, followed by an interview by the Services Selection Board (SSB). The exam tests the candidate’s knowledge of mathematics, general ability, and English. Successful candidates receive training at the NDA for three years before commissioning as officers.

Read More: Diploma Courses after 12th

Exam Pattern, Eligibility & Structure

Exam	Eligibility	Subjects Covered	Exam Pattern
NTSE	Class 10 students	Mental Ability, Scholastic Aptitude	2 stages: MAT + SAT
KVPY/INSPIRE	Science stream students	Math, Physics, Chemistry, Biology	Aptitude Test + Interview
IMO/NSO/IEO	Class 1-12	Subject-specific	MCQs, International level
Polytechnic Entrance	10th pass	Math, Science	State-level, Objective type
Defense Entries (Army/Navy/AF)	10th pass, Age 16-19	General Awareness, Science	Physical + Written + Medical
CLAT UG	12th appearing students	English, GK, Legal Reasoning	Objective + Comprehension

Career Opportunities After Competitive Exams

1. NTSE (National Talent Search Examination)

• Career Linkage
  • Scholarships: Qualified NTSE students can apply for monthly scholarships (up to the postgraduate level) through NCERT, which can help facilitate a student’s progress into higher education.
  • College Admissions: Colleges/universities and programs often target NTSE scholars as prime admissions candidates. In fact, some colleges reserve spots or scholarships for NTSE candidates.
  • Research Grants: Specifically, through NTSE, students recognized with the NTSE credential can often be presented with early research internships and avenues to early entry into premier research programs, especially as undergraduate students.
• Long-term Career Impact
  • The NTSE is a powerful primary credential for continued education in a career in academia, civil services, engineering, or pure sciences.

2. KVPY/INSPIRE (Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana / Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research)

• Career Connection:
  • Research Careers: These exams help identify and nurture students with research potential in the scientific sciences and engineering. KVPY qualifiers are often granted direct admission to institutions specializing in basic sciences, including IISc, IISERs, and IITs.
  • Scholarships & Fellowships: Other generous fellowships in undergraduate and postgraduate studies are available that also encourage research as a full-time experience.
  • Access to Research Laboratories: Students gain access to national laboratories that are some of the best in the country, with opportunities to work with professional scientists with qualifications in the field.
• Long-term Career Benefits:
  • Excellent for students interested in working in Research and Development (R&D). It provides the opportunity to enroll in PhD programs, be employed as a scientist innovating the future of science, or work in a higher education environment, such as a lecturer or professor.

3. Olympiads (Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Astronomy, Informatics, etc.)

• Career Linkage:
  • International Exposure: Representing India at global Olympiads it an honorable signal of prestige and international exposure.
  • CV Development: Participating and winning will greatly enhance candidacy when applying to IITs, IIScs, Ivy Leagues, and other international universities.
  • Scholarship/Research Opportunities: Olympiad winners are often awarded numerous national and international awards and invitations to world-class programs.
• Future Career Effect:
  • Great launchpad as a path to engineering, data science, pure sciences, and technology.

4. Polytechnic Entrance Exams

• Career Linkage:
  • Technician Positions: Polytechnic graduates are highly employable in core technical roles in sectors including electronics, civil, mechanical, and computer engineering.
  • Lateral Entry to BTech: Many students take the diploma path to gain lateral entry into BTech programs in top engineering colleges in their second year.
• Long-term Career Impact:
  • A practical and affordable route to a career as a technologist, engineer, or industrial specialist.

5. Defense Exams (NDA, Indian Navy SSR, Air Force Group X/Y, etc.)

• Career Pathway:
  • Military Service: Exams for NDA and the like ultimately lead to recruitment in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force at the non-officer or junior officer level.
  • Stability: Defense jobs provide job stability, discipline, early retirement benefits, and additional perks (housing, healthcare, pension).
  • Development of Leadership Skills: Candidates can acquire leadership skills for handling crises and coordination skills within a group or team.
• Impact on Career Development:
  • For candidates looking for structured career options, especially careers focusing on service, with access to promotional opportunities and career-level positions, within the defense services.

Top Preparation Resources

1. Books
   • For NTSE: Pearson NTSE Prep Book, Arihant NTSE Guide
   • For Olympiads: MTG Foundation series, SOF Practice papers.
   • For KVPY: HC Verma (Physics), NCERT’s + previous year papers.
   • For CLAT: Universal’s Guide to CLAT, Legal Aptitude by AP Bhardwaj.
2. Online Platforms
   • Embibe, Toppr, Unacademy, Byju’s, Vidyamandir.
   • SOF India official portal (Olympiads).
   • NCERT and official state boards’ polytechnic portals.
3. Tips for Success
   • Make a daily study schedule.
   • Solve previous years’ papers and mock tests.
   • Enroll in appropriate coaching (online or offline).
   • Focus on NCERT books to establish conceptual clarity.

Comparative Overview of Exams

Parameter	NTSE	KVPY	Olympiads	Polytechnic	CLAT	Defense Entry
Age Limit	Below 18	Below 19	Open	15–18	Below 20	16–19
Conducting Body	NCERT	DST	SOF/ISEA	State Boards	CLAT Consortium	Respective Forces
Scholarship	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No	Paid Role
Difficulty	Moderate	High	Moderate–High	Easy–Moderate	Moderate	Moderate
Recognition	National	National	International	State	National	Government

Tips to Prepare for Entrance and Competitive Exams After 10th

1. Know the Exam

First and foremost, the step towards clearing any competitive exams after the 10th is to understand the exam you are preparing for, its pattern, syllabus, and marking scheme. This will give you an idea of what to expect and how to prepare accordingly.

2. Make a Study Plan

A well-structured study plan with daily, weekly, and monthly targets is crucial for exams for students. Allocate time for each subject based on their importance and difficulty level. You can create competitive and government exam lists so you don’t miss out on any essential dates, notifications, or other information.

3. Choose the Right Study Material

Choose study material aligned with the exam syllabus and covers all the topics in detail. You can refer to competitive exam books, online academic resources, or free coaching material on YouTube.

4. Practice

Practice makes a person perfect, so don’t give up and keep practicing for your competitive exams after the 10th, and you will positively crack it. Solve previous year question papers, take mock tests, and practice online quizzes to get a good grip on the topics.

5. Time Management

Time management is a crucial step while preparing for any entrance or competitive exams after 10th. You must learn how to manage your time effectively during the exam by practicing time-bound tests and developing strategies to save time.

6. Stay Motivated

Preparing for exams after the 10^th for jobs or a great career can seem daunting. However, you must keep yourself motivated throughout the preparation phase by setting small achievable goals and rewarding yourself upon completion. Surround yourself with friends and family who support and motivate you.

7. Seek Guidance

Seeking guidance from your teachers, mentors, or coaching instructors is one of the best ways to prepare for competitive exams after the 10th. They can guide you if you face any difficulties in understanding any topic. And yes, never hesitate to clear your doubts.

Conclusion

Competitive exams after Class 10 are more than just tests-they are stepping stones toward building a strong academic foundation and shaping your career trajectory. From engineering and medicine to defense, law, and government services, these exams open doors to diverse opportunities that reward talent and preparation.

While securing admission to top institutions like IITs, NITs, or qualifying for prestigious roles in government and defense is highly competitive, starting early gives you a clear advantage. Preparing for these exams after the 10th not only reduces future pressure but also helps you develop discipline, time management, and confidence.

Remember, success in competitive exams is not about shortcuts-it is about consistent effort, smart planning, and aligning your preparation with your strengths and career goals. Identify your interests, evaluate your options carefully, and seek guidance from credible mentors, teachers, or experts when required.

By taking informed decisions and beginning your preparation at the right stage, you can turn competitive exams into opportunities that shape your future with clarity and confidence.

You can evaluate your career choices and the future options by knowing about Career Advice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)