Wondering how to become a software engineer after 12th? The 25 highest-paying companies in the world only want software engineers for their top packages, as do small startups and medium-sized businesses too. So, various types of software engineer jobs are up for grabs! If you love to code and love coffee too! Software Engineering could be a great choice for you. Most students discover their first love for programming very early in their lives.
Software engineering is a dynamic branch of engineering focused on conceiving, designing, implementing, and sustaining software systems. The demand for software engineers has surged across diverse industries due to the pervasive digitization of modern society. Consequently, there is a burgeoning array of career prospects in this field.
So, you feel curious about computer software and want to get deep into understanding how they are developed and written, huh? How high is your passion for technology? Are you asking about maths? You may not like math and trust me, most coders are not great at math. So, if you’re worried about that, don’t be, we are here! We will uncover several pathways to help you understand how to become a software engineer after 12th with different subject combinations… Come along…
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Software engineer after 12th commerce
If you want to be a software developer or work in the IT industry after 12th and looking for an answer on how to become a software engineer after 12th commerce. These are the ways…
- The easiest, fastest yet least popular way is this -> Get a Diploma in engineering from a polytechnic college and then complete your B.Tech in CS/IT. You will get lateral 2ndyr entry into BTech degree courses after a Diploma. You don’t need maths in Class 12 for this.
- Otherwise, go for BCA- MCA. You can later also pursue an M.Tech or can even apply for an MS in an international university. You don’t need maths in Class 12 for this.
- Otherwise, go for a Bachelor’s in Mathematics or Statistics (BA/BSc/BMath/BStat). You need maths in Class 12 for this.
- Then, you can do MCA and enter into the IT industry. OR, you can simply go for self-help courses in coding after graduation in this case, and get an IT job.
- No degree required route -> You can learn programming yourself. Multiple platforms can help you learn languages and subsequent freelancing will nurture your skills.
You can even land a better job than formal software engineers as IT giants like Google, Amazon, and Facebook look for skills only.
What about commerce without maths?
So, if you were looking for an answer on how to become a software engineer after 12th commerce without Maths – the answer is…. You may or may not need maths in 12th standard along with your commerce subjects depending on the route you choose. You also don’t need sky-high marks in it but just to prove your basic logical reasoning skills later in life.
Also, read: Career as a Software Programmer
How to become a software engineer after 12th Science?
Choosing the right educational pathway is crucial when aspiring to become a software engineer after completing Class 12 in the Science stream. There are several pathways to consider:
1: Engineering Focus
Take Class 11-12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
Pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Technology, or a related field.
2: General Engineering
Complete Class 11-12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
Pursue a Bachelor’s degree in any engineering discipline.
3. Diverse Background
Study Science in Class 11-12.
Earn a Bachelor’s degree in any stream and complement it with short-term courses in programming, IT, Machine Learning, or Data Science.
4: Science with Computer Science
Class 11-12 in Science stream with Physics, Mathematics & Computer.
Enroll in Bachelor’s degree programs related to Computer Science, Information Technology, or Computer Applications.
5: Any Stream with BCA
After Class 11-12 in any stream, opt for a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Applications (BCA).
6: Commerce/Humanities with Math/Computer
Pursue Bachelor’s degree programs in Computer Science, Information Technology, or Computer Applications if you have a Commerce/Humanities background with Mathematics and/or Computer Science in Class 11-12.
Also, read: Humanities Subjects
7: Engineering Plus
Complete Class 11-12 in the Science stream with PCM.
Pursue a Bachelor of Engineering/B.Tech in various engineering disciplines followed by a Master’s degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related fields.
8: Science to Master’s to GATE
Start with Class 11-12 in Science with PCM.
Obtain a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or any Science discipline with Mathematics.
Pursue a Master’s program (e.g., MCA, M.Sc.) and consider GATE for further specialization in Computer Science or IT.
9: Science to MBA
After Class 11-12 in Science with PCM, pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Applications, or IT.
Further your career by obtaining an MBA in Information Technology.
10: Science to Master’s
Begin with Class 11-12 in Science with PCM.
Earn a Bachelor’s degree in any Science discipline with Mathematics.
Pursue a Master’s Program like MCA or M.Sc. in Computer Applications or IT.
11: Any Stream to MCA
Complete Class 11-12 with any subjects, including Mathematics.
Opt for a Bachelor’s degree in any subject followed by an MCA program.
12: Mathematics Focus
Study Class 11-12 with any subjects and Mathematics.
Pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics, Statistics, or a related field before enrolling in an MCA program.
Now it’s time to decode…
How to become a software engineer after 12th science without maths?
As already mentioned, the pathway to becoming a software engineer after 12th science without maths is simple. Here you go…
Diploma in Engineering + B.Tech (CS/IT)
- Enroll in a Diploma in Engineering program at a polytechnic college.
- After completing the diploma, gain lateral entry into the second year of a B.Tech program in Computer Science or Information Technology.
- This route allows you to pursue a B.Tech without the need for mathematics in Class 12.
Also, read: Diploma Courses After 12th
BCA-MCA Route
- Pursue a Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA) degree.
- Follow it up with a Master of Computer Applications (MCA) program.
- You can further specialize with an M.Tech or even apply for an MS program in an international university.
- Mathematics in Class 12 is not a prerequisite for this path.
These options offer accessible and math-independent routes to achieve your dream of becoming a software engineer.
How to become a software engineer after 12th Arts?
Well, that’s a toughie.
The BCA Way After Arts
In this case, you will need Math in class 12 to prove your skills later in life, to say the least.
- Try to do a BCA.
- For the BCA degree itself, math is not required but it is better for you in the long run. Also, getting a college and then sailing through the semesters will be difficult if you don’t have experience with higher math. I hope you are reading this in or before class 10!
- Then follow up, with self-help courses on programming.
- Start with some basic beginners’ courses that make you go through all the preliminary stuff and do not need you to be a nerd already.
- Numerous options can take you through all those kiddie levels right from the beginning! It will be fastidious though, but don’t worry. You’ll get there.
The Diploma Way After Arts
If you have studied science & maths in class 10, you will be eligible for a Diploma in engineering. After your Diploma, clear any state-level entrance exam (JELET exam in Bihar and WB) to join a BTech course in the 2nd year through lateral entry in any college. Then, you’re on your way to an IT firm unless you want to do a Master’s degree after that. You can apply for jobs, however, most companies will ask you why you chose to skip Physics and Chemistry and Class 12 if you wanted to become a software engineer eventually! Be sure to answer that in full swag.
Conclusion!
So, that was about how to become a software engineer after 12th, whether you have chosen commerce, arts, or science. Treat this page as an admonition because you will still have doubts and don’t take them lightly. Talk to industry seniors or experts for clarity. To get appropriate answers to the questions, it is crucially important to take the help of professional counselors. Do you know about yourself? Are you sure? Maybe, but taking unbiased career counseling can open up a lot of information about yourself. That will help you to decide whether Software Engineering is for you or not.
iDreamCareer is here to assist you in making an informed decision about your future in this thriving field. Take advantage of iDreamCareer’s College & Course Selection Program today and embark on the path toward a successful future!
Also, read:
- How to get into IIT?
- Career as a GEO Informatics Assistant
- Career Options After BTech
- Career as a Software Testing Assistant
FAQs
To become a software engineer in India, you should study computer science or related fields like computer engineering or software engineering. Focus on programming languages, data structures, algorithms, and software development methodologies. Pursue a bachelor’s degree and consider advanced degrees for specialization. Gain practical experience through internships and personal projects. Stay updated with industry trends and technologies.
Yes, art students can pursue a career in software engineering. While a background in arts may not provide technical skills initially, anyone with the determination to learn coding and software development can succeed. Many successful software engineers have diverse educational backgrounds, and self-study and coding boot camps can also help bridge the gap.
Yes, you can pursue a career in software engineering after completing 12th commerce. To do so, you’ll need to start by taking relevant computer science courses or a related bachelor’s degree program in computer science or software engineering. It may take some extra time and effort to build the necessary skills, but it’s certainly possible to transition into the field.
It typically takes about 4 years to become a software engineer after completing high school (12th grade). This involves earning a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field, which includes coursework and practical experience in programming and software development. However, the exact duration may vary depending on the specific educational path and individual circumstances.
To become a software engineer, focus on studying computer science fundamentals, programming languages (e.g., Python, Java, C++), data structures, algorithms, and software development methodologies. Gain practical experience through coding projects, internships, and online courses. Strong problem-solving and communication skills are also crucial for success in this field.

Anushree Rastogi is a Senior Content Writer at iDreamCareer, bringing over 5 years of expertise to the field of career counseling. She has done a PGDM in Marketing and Finance and possesses a unique blend of skills that allows her to craft engaging and informative content. She is passionate about helping individuals navigate their career paths and has dedicated her career to providing valuable insights through her content. Her commitment to excellence and keen understanding of the career landscape make her a trusted guide for those seeking professional direction. With a flair for clear and engaging writing, Anushree is on a mission to empower others to make informed and fulfilling career choices.