What to Do After Class 12? Best Study and Career Paths in Nepal

Understanding Your Options After Class 12 in Nepal

After you've completed Class 12, you will see multiple paths to choose from. It is the right time to decide what your career looks like. Some of your friends might have already figured out what they want. At the same time, others might be as lost as you are. And you don't need to worry about it as it's perfectly okay. The most important thing is to take a step back and realize that you have many options, and you don't need to rush.

Some of them choose to go straight for a bachelor's degree. Others choose short diploma courses or skills training as a way of finding jobs as soon as possible. Some even get a break to sort themselves out. You don't need to do the same as others. It should align with your passions, what you want to achieve, and what you enjoy doing.

The good news is, there is no one way to go after +2. If you want to study further, get into the job market, or experiment with new skills, there's a place for something for everyone. You simply need to find out what works for you. 

What are the Best Courses to Pursue After Class 12 in Nepal?

The best courses after Class 12 depend on your stream and what you want to do in the future. Science students typically take medicine, engineering, or IT; Management students take business, accounting, or hospitality; and Humanities students can take arts, social work, law, or media. Let's talk about each stream individually so you can find the perfect direction for yourself.

1. Best Courses After Class 12 Science

• MBBS: This is for those who dream of becoming doctors. There is a tough entrance exam for this course, but it leads to a respected and highly paying career in the future. Doctors are always in demand, both internationally and domestically.
   
• BSc Nursing: If you are a people person and like spending time in a hospital setting, then nursing is a good option. It offers good job opportunities domestically and internationally, especially in countries that lack nurses.  
   
• Engineering (BE): Engineering includes such fields as civil, mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering. Engineers design and build things, and their skills are needed everywhere, from construction sites to computer companies.
   
• BSc CSIT: This course is ideal for those who enjoy computers and technology. It qualifies you for software development, IT support, and the emerging digital sector in Nepal and abroad.
   

2. Best Courses After Class 12 Management

• BBA and BBS: These business programs make you study finance, marketing, and management. They result in careers in hotels, corporations, and even entrepreneurship.
   
• BHM (Hotel Management): This program prepares you for jobs in the hotel, restaurant, and tourism sectors. The booming tourism industry in Nepal opens plenty of doors for hotel managers and event managers.
   
• CA (Chartered Accountancy): CA is for math lovers and finance enthusiasts. It is challenging, but it leads to well-paying professions in accounting, auditing, and finance.
   
• IT Courses: IT courses like BIT, BIM, and BCA integrate business and computer studies, preparing students for modern workplaces.
   
• BTTM: BTTM focuses on tourism, a vibrant sector of Nepal, making it more convenient for students to get jobs in travel and hospitality.
   

3. Best Courses After Class 12 Humanities

• BA (Bachelor of Arts): A versatile degree that covers subjects like history, languages, and sociology. It's best for students who want to be teachers, writers, or in the government.
   
• BSW (Bachelor of Social Work): This course teaches you to work with society, NGOs, and social services. It's best if you want to make a positive difference in society.
   
• Mass Communication: Media, journalism, and web content are taught to students. It is a great choice for individuals who wish to make a career in news, television, radio, or social media.
   
• Psychology: Psychology studies human behavior and mental disorders. As awareness about it grows in Nepal, psychologists will be needed in schools, hospitals, and counseling centers. 
   
• Law (BALLB): Law Studies offer scope in legal professions, government, and human rights groups. It is a very dignified career for those who want to serve justice and fairness.
   

What are the Best Training and Certification Courses After Class 12 in Nepal?

The best training and certification courses in Nepal after class 12 are short, skill-based certificates that equip you with a job without the need for a bachelor's degree. They include graphic design courses, digital marketing, IT support, accounting, hotel management, HR training, and language courses like IELTS or Japanese. These are all offered by CTEVT, private institutes, and online, and can equip you for a job in less time with hands-on skills. If you want to work in an office, abroad, or freelance from home, training courses may be your next move.

1. Graphic Design Training in Nepal

Graphic design is a creative skill that's in high demand, which will teach you how to design images like posters, logos, social media graphics, and more. In graphic design training courses, you will learn industry-leading software such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Figma, and Canva. This career suits those who are interested in design and want to do so in marketing, advertising, or freelance design.  

2. IT Training Courses in Nepal

If you prefer to work with computers, an IT training program could be for you. Most of these programs cover topics like computer fundamentals, Microsoft Office, etc. Some institutes also offer advanced courses like hardware and networking, coding training like MERN stack training, software developer training, and more. 

You can secure entry-level jobs in schools, internet cafes, banks, and offices. Some of the training centers also offer job placement assistance after training. It is one of the most helpful trainings for +2 graduates of any stream. You can also learn more about IT support jobs in Nepal to know where this skill will take you.

3. Digital Marketing Courses in Nepal

Digital marketing is one of the fastest-growing skills in Nepal. As more and more companies are going online, there is a massive demand for professionals who can manage social media, ads, write content, and SEO. You will learn how to start online businesses, handle clients, or establish your brand. 

Digital marketing training in Nepal is also a top choice for students who want to work from home or pursue a freelance career. Certification and internship are given in most digital marketing schools in Nepal. 

4. Accounting Training for Beginners

Accounting training teaches you how to handle day-to-day business money. You'll be trained in software like Tally, tax calculation, billing, and managing invoices. This course is best for those seeking office work, banking, or finance. Even without a bachelor's degree, trained accountants are employed by numerous small and large companies. Within a few months of training, you can be eligible for junior accounting jobs.

5. HR (Human Resource) Training in Nepal

HR training will help you understand how companies handle their employees. You will be taught about staff recruitment, wages, leave entitlements, communication with employees, and office rules. It is a smart course for office work or NGO/INGO professional students. Most HR jobs do not require a full bachelor's degree if you are experienced. However, this course refines your communication and leadership skills. If you want to pursue this career, check out our blog on office and administrative jobs in Nepal to find more opportunities.

6. Hospitality and Hotel Management Courses

Tourism in Nepal continues to boom, and so does the need for trained hospitality and hotel professionals. A hospitality course will train you in customer service, housekeeping, front desk operations, and food & beverage service. They are typically short courses of 3–6 months duration and could have you working earlier in Nepal or even abroad. It's a good option for people who enjoy meeting people and who are interested in the travel industry. 

7. Language Training: IELTS, Japanese, Korean (EPS)

Language training is necessary if you are moving overseas to work or study. IELTS is needed for English-speaking countries like Australia, the UK, or Canada, and is listening, reading, writing, and speaking-based. Japanese and Korean language courses prove advantageous for work visas under programs like EPS. These programs are readily available and highly affordable. Even if you are not abroad traveling yet, learning a new language can make your career prospects here in Nepal, too.

What Job Opportunities are Available After Class 12 Without a Degree in Nepal?

There are many job opportunities in Nepal that do not require a bachelor's degree if you have passed class 12. These are available in IT support, BPO, sales, banks, call centers, freelancing, and even in government offices. Your degrees do not matter to most companies, but skills and attitude do. 

1. IT Support and BPO Jobs

Some IT companies and BPOs (Business Process Outsourcing) hire Class 12 pass-outs to work as supporting staff. The job can be data entry, online typing jobs, technical support, system maintenance, or mere software operation. You just need basic computer knowledge, communication skills, and a will to learn. These IT jobs typically involve training, and you can move to more advanced positions with experience. It's a useful choice if you're interested in entering the field of tech but aren't ready for a degree.

2. Sales and Marketing Jobs

Sales and marketing jobs are always in demand, especially in cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Biratnagar. You can find plenty of job vacancies in Kathmandu for 12th pass in roles like sales representative, marketing assistant, or brand promoter for sectors like FMCG, telecommunication, real estate, and retail. These positions help you acquire communication and customer-handling skills. Many companies provide performance-based incentives and bonuses. If you're confident, vocal, and enjoy dealing with people, it could be an appropriate choice. We also have a list of Nepalese available sales jobs for freshers that you may try.

3. Banking Support Roles

Even though higher bank posts require a degree, there are many support-level jobs that accept +2 pass-outs. Office assistants, receptionists, documentation staff, and even teller positions at co-operatives are some examples. Basic computer and communication skills are enough to start with. Banks also provide in-house training, and you can be promoted on the basis of experience. 

4. Call Centers and Customer Service

Call center jobs are popular among +2 pass students, especially in Kathmandu. You will be responding to customer queries, fixing complaints, or selling a service. Training is usually provided by most organizations, so you don't need any experience. Such jobs usually have flexible shifts, ideal for students or freshers. If you have good Nepali or English fluency, you can easily qualify.

5. Freelancing Jobs

Freelancing can be a good choice if you want to work from home or earn some part-time money. You can learn skills like content writing, graphic design, digital marketing, or video editing through short training and start offering services online. Websites such as Fiverr, Upwork, and Facebook groups are good places to search for freelance work. Without a degree, clients care more about your skills and portfolio. This is a flexible opportunity with no limit to earnings. 

6. Government Job for Class 12 Pass

Some government jobs in Nepal require only SEE or +2 qualifications. You can appear for jobs in the Nepal Police, the Army, the Armed Police Force, or through the Lok Sewa Aayog (Public Service Commission). These positions include assistant-grade positions, office assistants, junior clerks, and several others. It is very competitive, but job security and benefits make it an effort worth taking to prepare for. 

Should You Study in Nepal or Abroad After Class 12?

This is one of the biggest questions students ask themselves after +2. "Should I study in Nepal, or go abroad?" The answer isn't the same for everyone, because it actually depends on your goals, budget, and future plans.

Studying in Nepal has its own advantages. It costs less, you'll be close to relatives, and you can study where you are comfortable. There are very good colleges here for IT, business, medicine, and management. If you're going to establish a career in Nepal, even studying here helps you build a network and contacts in the workplace.

On the other hand, studying abroad, such as in Australia, Japan, India, or the USA, may expose you to more diverse multicultural experiences. You will meet individuals of other ethnic groups, gain freedom, and sometimes be given better facilities or teaching methods. But it is very expensive, and it takes some time before you get settled in another country. Some of the students also get homesick or are stressed by part-time jobs. 

Scholarships and financial help can reduce the cost abroad, but you need to look for them and apply well in advance. If your intention is to settle abroad or gain international work experience, then going abroad to study could be a good choice. But if you are not ready financially and emotionally, then residing in Nepal and gaining quality education here is still a good option. 

Ultimately, there isn't really a "better" option between the two. It's a matter of what best suits you.

How to Choose the Right Path After Class 12?

To choose the right path after Class 12, you need to know your interests, potential, and financial resources. You can also seek advice from counsellors or mentors, and research colleges and job markets appropriately. Here are some tips to help you make a decision that is suitable for your goals and circumstances.

1. Know Yourself: Interests, Skills, and Finances

Start by questioning yourself about what you prefer doing and what you are good at. For example, if you like science and mathematics, medical or engineering professions might be more suitable for you. If business or communication suits you, management or marketing might be more fitting. Also, consider what you or your family can afford for your studies, as some study programs abroad can be quite expensive.

2. Seek Guidance and Mentorship

Don't hesitate to talk to teachers, career counselors, or professionals working in fields you're interested in. They can share real insights into the courses and professions, issues you'll encounter, and what real skills you actually require to succeed. Sometimes, a mentor can help you avoid errors and plan your future more efficiently.

3. Research the Colleges, Courses, and Job Markets

Spend time researching universities, courses, and their career prospects. Look for reviews, testimonials, and whether the courses are government-approved. Additionally, explore the jobs in demand in Nepal and worldwide, so you can identify better opportunities after graduation.

Top Entrance Exams After Class 12 in Nepal

After Class 12, a majority of the students need to clear entrance exams to get admission into their desired courses. These are aptitude tests for your knowledge and skills in the subject you want to take up. Knowing the important entrance exams and how to crack them can help you do well and get admitted to good colleges.

1. MBBS Entrance Exam

The MBBS entrance exam is for students who are interested in studying medicine in Nepal. It tests you in biology, chemistry, physics, and English. You need to study hard, as competition is tough and only high scorers get admissions to medical colleges. 

2. IOE Entrance Exam (Engineering)

Institute of Engineering (IOE) admission is required for students willing to study engineering in Pulchowk, Thapathali, and other campuses. It examines you in mathematics, physics, and chemistry of your +2 curriculum. Good preparation and practice of previous years' question papers will see you through.

3. CMAT (Management Entrance)

CMAT is the entrance exam for the majority of the management colleges in Nepal. It examines your quantitative ability, logical reasoning, and English. The test is important if you are ready to apply for BBA or BBS courses in reputed colleges. 

4. CTEVT Exams (Technical and Vocational)

CTEVT (Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training) conducts entrance exams for technical and vocational courses like nursing, lab technician, and hotel management. These exams are generally based on basic science and general knowledge. They are not as tough as other entrance exams, but require proper preparation. 

Vocational & Technical Courses After Class 12 in Nepal

If you are willing to learn employable skills that can help you get employed in a short time, vocational and technical education is the ideal choice after Class 12. Most of these choices in Nepal are offered by CTEVT (Council for Technical Education and Vocational Training). They offer practical training in topics like nursing, laboratory technician, electrical, and auto mechanics. 

For example, a nursing course gets you ready to assist doctors and care for patients, which is always in demand. Lab technician courses get you ready to handle medical tests and equipment in a lab. If you like doing hands-on things, electrical and auto-mechanic courses get you ready to fix machines, automobiles, or electrical devices.

These trainings usually last a few months up to two years and make you employable sooner than traditional degree programs. The majority of students secure good-paying jobs upon completion of these practical trainings.