Five Tips And Tricks To Prepare For Higher Education After Class 12 Board Exams

For students interested in pursuing opportunities abroad, it’s recommended they start by identifying their interests and passions and select a course that aligns with their career aspirations.

Higher Studies Preparation After Class 12 (Representational Image) ( Image Source :Getty )

Written By Sachin Jain 

Finishing Class 12 board exams is a significant milestone for students as it marks the end of their school education and paves the way for higher education. With a solid foundation in place, students are ready to transition from school to pursue higher education which can appear like a daunting task but is well worth the effort. It requires planning, preparation and hard work to succeed.

In 2022, there was a considerable increase in the number of Indian students who chose to pursue higher education outside their country, according to the Union Ministry of Education. The ministry reported in February 2023, that approximately 750,000 Indian students went abroad for further studies, a significant increase compared to the 450,000 who did so in 2017, which represents pre-pandemic figures. These figures suggest that an increasing number of Indian students are exploring opportunities for higher education outside of India. 

For students interested in pursuing opportunities abroad, it’s recommended they start by identifying their interests and passions and select a course that aligns with their career aspirations. This will help them stay motivated and engaged throughout their higher education journey. Once they have decided on the course, they should research colleges or universities that offer the program they’re interested in as well as the associated admission requirements. Other factors to consider include location, fees and job opportunities before making a final decision. 

Below are some tips and tricks that can help students prepare for higher education after Class 12 board exams.

Determine Long-Term Goals 

Determining long-term goals is crucial in planning a higher education journey as it helps students to identify their aspirations and develop a roadmap to achieve them. By setting long-term goals, students can focus their efforts towards achieving their desired career path and develop a clear understanding of the skills and knowledge required for success. It also helps them to make informed decisions about the course and college they choose, ensuring that they align with their long-term goals. 

Conduct In-Depth Research 

To conduct research for planning a higher education journey, students can start by using online resources such as college websites, admission portals and education forums. They can also seek advice from their teachers, counsellors and alumni of the colleges they are interested in. Students can attend education fairs and college seminars to gain insights about different courses and colleges. They can also read books, articles and research papers related to their field of interest. Social media platforms such as LinkedIn and Quora can also be useful to connect with professionals and gain industry-specific knowledge. By using a combination of these resources, students can gather comprehensive information to make informed decisions about their higher education journey. 

Prepare for English Proficiency Exams 

English proficiency exams are a crucial component of the admission process for many universities and colleges, especially in English-speaking countries. A good score in an English-language test such as TOEFL can help students stand out in front of admissions officers at their desired institution. To prepare for this, students can refer to the study materials and courses offered on the official website. Furthermore, they can also prepare by practising their reading, writing, speaking and listening skills using online preparation resources and enrolling in language classes or tutoring to improve their proficiency in English. Consistent effort and practice can lead to success in English proficiency exams and improve the chances of admission in their desired college or university. 

Seek Guidance

Seeking guidance is essential in planning a successful higher education journey. Guidance from teachers, mentors, counsellors and alumni can provide valuable insights about different courses, colleges, and career paths. They can help students to identify their strengths, interests and goals and suggest suitable courses or programs. They can also provide information about admission requirements, entrance exams, and scholarships. Additionally, they can help students to develop study skills, soft skills, and career readiness.  

To seek guidance, students can approach their school or college guidance counsellors, attend education fairs, and connect with alumni and professionals in their field of interest. 

Develop Soft Skills 

Developing soft skills, which include communication, teamwork, time management, leadership, problem-solving, and adaptability, is essential in planning a successful higher education journey.

Students can participate in extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and internships to hone these skills. They can also attend workshops or seek guidance from teachers, mentors or career counsellors. By developing soft skills, students can interact effectively with others and adapt to changing circumstances. Participating in extracurricular activities and volunteer work can help them develop teamwork and leadership skills, while internships provide opportunities to improve problem-solving and communication skills. 

The author is Managing Director, ETS India.

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