For students completing their 12th in 2025, government job opportunities are wide open. While many believe graduation is a must for public sector roles, several prestigious government exams accept candidates right after Class 12. These exams offer stable careers, competitive salaries, and the prestige of working with central or state-level institutions.
This guide explores the Top Government Exams After 12th in 2025, covering eligibility, selection process, and eligibility & last date info to help aspirants stay ahead.
1. SSC CHSL (Combined Higher Secondary Level)
Conducted By: Staff Selection Commission (SSC)
Job Roles: Data Entry Operator (DEO), Lower Division Clerk (LDC), Postal Assistant, Sorting Assistant
Eligibility:
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Must have passed Class 12 from a recognized board
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Age: 18–27 years (age relaxations apply for reserved categories)
Exam Pattern:
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Tier 1: Objective-type online exam
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Tier 2: Descriptive test
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Tier 3: Typing/Skill test
Apply Date: Expected release in January 2025
Last Date to Apply: Likely February 2025
2. Indian Army – Agniveer Scheme
Conducted By: Indian Army
Job Roles: General Duty Soldier, Clerk, Tradesman
Eligibility:
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Class 10 or 12 depending on the post
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Age: 17.5 to 21 years
Selection Process:
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Online test
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Physical Fitness Test (PFT)
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Medical examination
Apply Date: March–April 2025 (tentative)
Last Date to Apply: Varies by state recruitment schedule
Note: The Agnipath scheme offers a 4-year service period with a chance to join the permanent cadre after evaluation.
3. Indian Navy – Sailor Entry (SSR & AA)
Conducted By: Indian Navy
Job Roles: Senior Secondary Recruit (SSR), Artificer Apprentice (AA)
Eligibility:
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12th with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics
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Age: 17.5 to 21 years
Selection Process:
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Written Test
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Physical Fitness Test
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Medical exam
Apply Date: Expected April–May 2025
Last Date to Apply: As per official recruitment notice
4. Railway Recruitment – RRB Group D & RRB ALP
Conducted By: Railway Recruitment Board (RRB)
Job Roles: Track Maintainer, Assistant Loco Pilot, Helper, Technician
Eligibility:
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Group D: 10th pass or ITI
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ALP/Technician: 12th with science or ITI/technical diploma
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Age: 18–30 years (varies by post)
Exam Pattern:
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Computer-Based Test (CBT)
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Physical Test (for Group D)
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Document Verification
Apply Date: Group D expected mid-2025, ALP early 2025
Last Date to Apply: Will be mentioned in official RRB notifications
5. NDA (National Defence Academy) Exam
Conducted By: UPSC
For: Entry into Army, Navy, and Air Force wings
Eligibility:
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12th pass with PCM for Navy/Air Force, any stream for Army
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Age: 16.5 to 19.5 years
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Only unmarried male & female candidates
Selection Process:
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Written exam
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SSB Interview
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Medical exam
Apply Date:
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NDA 1: December 2024
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NDA 2: May 2025
Last Date to Apply:
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NDA 1: Likely Jan 2025
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NDA 2: Expected June 2025
6. Indian Coast Guard – Navik & Yantrik
Conducted By: Indian Coast Guard
Eligibility:
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Navik (GD): 12th pass with Maths and Physics
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Yantrik: 10th + Diploma in Engineering
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Age: 18–22 years
Selection Process:
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Written Exam
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Physical Fitness Test
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Medicals
Apply Date: Twice a year (Jan & July expected)
Last Date to Apply: Usually within 20 days of notification
7. State Police Constable Exams
Conducted By: Respective State Police Recruitment Boards
Eligibility:
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12th pass from recognized board
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Age: Typically 18–25 years
Selection Process:
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Written Test
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Physical Test
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Document Verification
Apply Date: Varies state-wise (e.g., UP Police, Maharashtra Police, etc.)
Last Date to Apply: Check official state police portals
FAQs on Top Government Exams After 12th in 2025
Q1. Which government exam is best after 12th for females?
A: SSC CHSL, Indian Navy SSR, and State Police exams offer equal opportunities and are suitable for female candidates.
Q2. Can I apply for NDA after the 12th without PCM?
A: Only for the Army wing. Navy and Air Force wings require PCM in 12th.
Q3. What is the minimum age to apply for government exams after 12th?
A: Most exams require a minimum age of 17.5 to 18 years.
Q4. Are there any government jobs after 12th without a written exam?
A: Some Agniveer roles or trade-based roles in defense may not have written exams but involve physical tests and medicals.
Q5. Can I apply for multiple exams at once?
A: Yes, you can apply for multiple government exams if you meet their respective eligibility criteria.
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