Career Options After 10th: Which Course is Best for You?
By Sriram
Updated on Aug 11, 2025 | 16 min read | 58.18K+ views
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By Sriram
Updated on Aug 11, 2025 | 16 min read | 58.18K+ views
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Did You Know? According to The Economic Times, India’s employment outlook has increased to 43% in Q2 2025, highlighting strong hiring trends across various sectors. |
Choosing the right path after 10th grade is one of the biggest decisions in a student’s life. With so many options available, it’s normal to feel confused. Whether you want to go for higher studies or start a skill-based course, there are plenty of career options after 10th to explore.
For example, a diploma in computer engineering can lead to jobs paying INR 2 – 4LPA, while government jobs like SSC Multi-Tasking Staff offer job security with salaries starting around INR 3 LPA.
In this blog, we’ll cover the best streams to choose (Science, Commerce, or Arts), short term job-oriented courses, high-salary options, digital careers, and even specific career paths for girls and government job seekers.
If you're unsure about what to do next or want to find the right career option based on your interests, read this blog till the end, it might just shape your future.
Explore career options after 10th class with industry-ready courses in Management, Software Engineering, Data Science, and Digital Marketing!
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Selecting an ideal stream after tenth grade is the first crucial step in creating a bright future for yourself. After tenth grade, each stream offers different career options that can impact your future, based on your interests in science, commerce, or arts fields..
In this section, we’ll help you to understand the following:
Now, let’s explore each option in detail.
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The stream you choose after 10th decides your education and career journey. Each stream offers different subjects, career paths, and future salaries.
Here are the top career options after 10th in different streams:
Stream | Subjects Covered | Top Career Options | Average Annual Salary |
Science | Physics, Chemistry, Math/Biology | Software Engineer | INR 9.1L |
Commerce | Business Studies, Economics, Accounts | Chartered Accountant | INR 11.4L |
Arts | History, Sociology, Political Science | Teacher | INR 3L |
Sourced By: Ambition Box
Fact: According to IBEF, jobs in data science and mathematical fields are expected to grow by over 31% by 2030 |
Many students struggle to choose between Science and Commerce. Both are great choices — it depends on your career goals.
Detailed comparison table of science vs commerce:
Factors | Science | Commerce |
Career Focus | Engineering, Medical, Technology | Finance, Management, Business |
Course Difficulty | More technical & theory-based | Practical and business-oriented |
Future Jobs | Doctors, Engineers, Scientists | CAs, Bankers, Marketing Professionals |
Flexibility | Can switch to Commerce/Arts later | Switching to Science is not possible |
Arts is no longer a low-scope option. It offers creative and social career paths, often with high growth in modern industries.
Some of the Top Career Options in Arts After 10th:
Top Career Options | Average Annual Salary |
Graphic Designer | INR 4.4L |
Journalist | INR 4.2L |
Psychologist | INR 4.6L |
Fashion Designer | INR 4.5L |
Sourced By: Ambition Box
Choosing the right stream is all about matching your interests, strengths, and career goals. Here’s a simple checklist to guide you.
It is not mandatory for all the students to pursue the standard 11th and 12th grade career path. After 10th class, many students search for career options that are skill-based, practical, and ready for employment.
If you're interested in working early or building a strong basis for a technical field, this section is for you.
We’ll explore:
Diploma courses are among the best career options after 10th if you want industry skills and faster employment.
Here are the best choices for you:
Course Name | Duration | Job Roles | Average Annual Salary |
Diploma in Mechanical Engineering. | 3 years | CAD Operator | INR 4L |
Diploma in Hotel Management | 1–3 years | Front Office Manager | INR 6L |
Diploma in Computer Science | 3 years | Web Developer | INR 4.5L |
Diploma in Fashion Designing | 1–2 years | Fashion Assistant | INR 2.2L |
Top Vocational courses, usually focus on specific jobs or services, offering practical training which are excellent for students to start their career at early stage.
Popular 2-Year Vocational Courses After 10th:
Polytechnic and ITI institutes offer practical technical training. They’re a great option for students looking for job-ready career options after 10th without going through +2 or college degrees. These courses are very affordable which is a plus point for students.
Some of the top courses are mentioned below:
Course Type | Examples of Courses | Job Roles |
Polytechnic | Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, CS Engineering | Junior Engineer, Site Supervisor |
ITI | Fitter, Welder, Electrician, Plumber | Technician, Maintenance Operator |
If you want to gain a skill quickly and start freelancing or earning, short-term courses (6 months–1 year) are great options. They are flexible, often online, and job-focused.
Some of the In-Demand Short-Term Courses are mentioned in the table:
Course Name | Duration | Top Job | Average Annual Salary |
Digital Marketing | 3–6 months | SEO Specialist | INR 5L |
Graphic Design | 6 months | Junior Graphic Designer | INR 3.3L |
Tally + Excel | 3 months | Accounts Assistant | INR 3L |
Mobile Repair Technician | 6–12 months | Mobile Repair Technician | INR 3L |
If you're not planning to pursue 11th and 12th, there are still several career options after 10th that offer high salary potential and trending job roles. Students have a wide range of useful and employable options, from digital skills and diplomas to online certifications.
Let's look at the top career options after 10th that provide stable incomes and valuable skills.
Technical and industry-specific diploma courses can help you earn ₹3–6 LPA early in your career. Many employers value skill over traditional education, making these a smart alternative.
Here are the best courses after 10th that offer high salary:
Course |
Duration |
Top Job Role |
Average Annual Salary |
Diploma in Mechanical Engineering. | 3 years | Junior Mechanical Engineer | INR 3.3L |
Diploma in Hotel Management | 1–2 years | Assistant Manager | INR 8.7L |
Diploma in Web Development | 6–12 months | Web Developer | INR 4.5L |
Diploma in Animation & VFX | 1–2 years | 3D Animator | INR 4.2L |
Sourced By: Ambition Box
Do You Know? According to the Ministry of Electronics and IT, India’s digital economy is expected to contribute one-fifth of GDP by 2030. |
The digital economy is increasing in India, that's why this field is in huge demand. Fields like coding, digital marketing, and UI/UX design offer various high earning potential jobs in big companies, or some even allow freelancing or remote work.
Some of the top courses in this field are mentioned below in the table:
Digital Course |
Top Job Role |
Average Annual Salary |
Digital Marketing | PPC Executive | INR 3.7L |
UI/UX Design | UI/UX Designer | INR 7.5L |
Web Development | Web Developer | INR 4.5L |
Graphic Design | Graphic Designer | INR 4.4L |
After 10th class, there are many helpful online certifications that are highly aimed by employers. Without a college degree, these courses can help you start working or freelancing and gain practical skills.
Top Online Certifications After 10th:
Start Learning for Free & Earn Certificates! Boost your skills with our free courses and get certified to enhance your resume.
Diploma courses can help you to start working early with hands-on skills. These diploma courses are great for students who want a job after 10th class.
Given below are the top diploma courses after 10th class:
Diploma Course |
Top Job Role |
Avg. Annual Salary |
Diploma in Computer Applications | Data Entry Operator | INR 2.2L |
Diploma in Electrical Engineering | Electrical Technician | INR 3.2L |
Diploma in Mechanical Engineering | Junior Mechanical Engineer | INR 3.3L |
Diploma in Web Development | Front-End Developer | INR 6.3L |
Diploma in Hotel Management | Front Office Executive | INR 2.8L |
Choosing the right path after 10th depends a lot on what you enjoy!. Whether you like technology, healthcare, business, or hands-on work, there are many job-oriented diploma and certificate courses available.
Here are a few career suggestions based on different interests:
Fields |
Top Career Path |
Average Annual Salary |
Technology | Computer Technician | INR 2.2L |
Healthcare | Nursing Assistant | INR 2.8L |
Business & Finance | Junior Accountant | INR 2.8L |
Design & Creativity | Graphic Designer | INR 4.4L |
Mechanical Work | Automotive Technician | INR 2.8L |
Girls today have access to all career paths, and many are choosing job-oriented courses for early job entry into healthcare, design, teaching, and technology fields. These fields offer flexibility, growth, and stability.
Here are the best career options after 10th for girls:
Career Option |
Average Annual Salary |
Nursing Assistant | INR 2.8L |
Fashion Designer | INR 4.5L |
Pre-School Teacher | INR 1.8L |
Computer Operator | INR 2.2L |
Beautician/Makeup Artist | INR 3.7L |
If you prefer job security and stable income, government career options after 10th are perfect for you. Most of the government jobs requires clearing a written exam and physical tests (in some cases).
Top government jobs available after 10th class are mentioned below:
Government Job Role |
Hiring Bodies |
Average Annual Salary |
Police Constable | State Police Departments | INR 4.3L |
Army Soldier (GD) | Indian Army | INR 5.3L |
Multi-Tasking Staff (MTS) | SSC, Railways | INR 3.2L |
Forest Guard | Forest Department | INR 2.5L |
Post Office Assistant | India Post | INR 4.8L |
After 10th grade, you have the option of pursuing a course that is specifically focused on your career or continuing your education by enrolling in classes 11–12. Your interests, goals, and financial condition should determine your next step.
Here’s a simple breakdown:
Option |
Best For |
11th–12th + Degree | Academic or professional careers |
Diploma/ITI Course | Early job, To gain practical skills |
Certificate Course | Quick job entry, Learn specific skill |
Your future depends on your choice of career that you make after 10th class. You should think about your interests and strengths before deciding to take any courses in business, humanities and arts, science, or vocational training.
Always look out for changing market trends and booming career opportunities for employment that fits to your career goals.
If you are having any trouble in making your decision then do not hesitate to contact our career counseling experts at upGrad. Our team of experts can assist you in selecting the career option that best fits your goals.
Book a free consultation session now!
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Reference Links:
https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2023/Jun/03/science-arts-most-sought-after-streamsafter-class-10-commerce-lagging-behind-education-ministry-2581562.html
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/diploma-engineer-salary-SRCH_KO0,16.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/medical-laboratory-technologist-salary-SRCH_KO0,31.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/pharmacy-assistant-salary-SRCH_KO0,18.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/biotechnology-salary-SRCH_KO0,13.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/agriculture-salary-SRCH_KO0,11.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/computer-science-engineer-salary-SRCH_KO0,25.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/chartered-accountant-salary-SRCH_KO0,20.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/bcom-graduate-salary-SRCH_KO0,13.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/company-secretary-salary-SRCH_KO0,17.htm
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183 articles published
Sriram K is a Senior SEO Executive with a B.Tech in Information Technology from Dr. M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute, Chennai. With over a decade of experience in digital marketing, he specia...
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