Scopes and Entrance Exams for PCB Students Beyond NEET
For students pursuing Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB), the scope of their careers extends far beyond the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET). This article explores various entrance exams and career opportunities available to PCB students beyond NEET.
Entrance Exams for PCB Students
The Central University Entrance Test (CUET) is one of the most prominent exams for admission to undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs across various disciplines. It also offers opportunities in research, with a 5-year program at the Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISER).
JEE Main
Another crucial exam for PCB students is the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main. While primarily for engineering, aspiring medical aspirants can also attempt the JEE Main to practice important questions in Physics and Chemistry, which are closely related to NEET.
KVAPY and NEST
The Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana (KVPY) caters to students interested in science research. It consists of 2 streams - SX and SB. The National Entrance Screening Test (NEST) is another significant exam for PCB students, particularly those interested in integrated Master of Science (MS) programs in science fields.
Other State and University-Specific Exams
Beyond these, there are numerous other exams and university-specific tests that PCB students can consider as alternative pathways. These include:
CET (Common Entrance Test)
CET is the joint entrance test for various state-level universities. It can serve as an alternative to NEET for admissions in different disciplines, including PCB.
IAT (IISER Admission Test)
The IAT is for admissions to Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research(IISER) to pursue further studies in science.
NEST (National Entrance Screening Test)
NEST is specifically designed for aspiring students who wish to go into integrated MSc programs in science. It also involves research work in PCB and includes a 5-year course duration that combines BSc and MSc.
ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research)
ICAR conducts various undergraduate courses in agriculture and related sciences post the NEET exam, providing opportunities in fields like Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries, and Horticulture.
Provisional Medical Test (PMT)
PMTs are state-level medical examinations for medical studies, offering students a pathway to medical colleges in their respective states.
BITSAT (BITS Pilani Admission Test)
BITSAT is for admissions to BITS Pilani campuses in Goa and Hyderabad, specifically for Biological Sciences.
AIPVT (All India Pre-Veterinary Test)
AIPVT is an exam for veterinary science courses.
Combined Pre-Medical Test (CPMT)
CPMT is designed for different states and is a combined medical entrance test.
Paramedical Entrance Exams
These exams are for courses related to paramedical fields such as Physiotherapy and Nursing.
In addition to these, other options include BSc Nursing, B Pharm, BSc Physiotherapy, and even various veterinary courses. Each of these pathways offers unique opportunities and can lead to diverse career prospects in the fields of medicine, research, and agriculture.